Understanding Toilet Traps: What You Need to Know

Did you know that not all toilets work the same way? Besides the design, toilets differ in handling waste and blocking bad smells. This is thanks to a part called the toilet trap.

What Does a Toilet Trap Do?

A toilet trap is a curved pipe below the toilet that holds a small amount of water to block sewer gases and pests from entering your home. This "water seal" keeps bad smells and creatures like cockroaches or rats from entering your bathroom.

There are three main types of toilet traps, each with a unique design that suits different plumbing setups. Here’s a quick look at each type.

Types of Toilet Traps

• S-Trap
  The S-trap is the oldest style, shaped like an “S.” It lets waste exit through the floor, so it’s often found in ground-floor bathrooms. However, it can dry out more easily, which may let smells escape.
• P-Trap
  The P-trap is shaped like a “P” and exits through the wall, not the floor. This makes it a great choice for upper floors and wall-hung toilets. P-traps keep their water seal better, so they’re less likely to let odours into your bathroom.
• Skew Trap
  A skew trap connects through a side wall instead of the floor or back wall. It’s perfect for tight spaces or bathrooms with unique plumbing needs and is usually easier to install.

What Is a Set-Out?

The set-out is the distance between the waste pipe and either the floor (for S-traps) or the wall (for P-traps). This measurement ensures the new toilet fits perfectly with your existing plumbing. Most modern homes have set outs between 140mm and 165mm, so it’s important to check this before installing a new toilet.

Need Help? Contact The Sink Warehouse Experts

We know that plumbing details can be confusing. At The Sink Warehouse, we’ve been helping Australians with their bathroom upgrades since 1994. Visit a store or call us at 1300 301 000 for expert advice. We’ll make sure your new toilet fits perfectly with your plumbing to keep your bathroom fresh and functional!