Trap primer. What is this part ?

Discussion in 'Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice' started by piped, Jan 17, 2019.

  1. piped

    piped New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 17, 2019
    Location:
    PDX
    Bought a new house and this was next to the vintage alpine green toilet..

    Does anybody know what this for ? My handyman opened the valve a little and water started to come out the holes.

    Thanks!

    IMG_20190117_140853062.jpg
     
    piped, Jan 17, 2019
    #1
  2. Terry

    Terry Administrator Staff Member

    Joined:
    Aug 17, 2004
    Occupation:
    Plumber
    Location:
    Bothell, Washington
    Do you have a floor drain nearby? It's a trap primer.

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]
     
    Terry, Jan 17, 2019
    #2
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  4. piped

    piped New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 17, 2019
    Location:
    PDX
    thanks for your quick response!

    yes, there is a floor drain about 4 feet away. What purpose is the valve above the trap primer. I believe that it's currently closed and if so, then the trap primer would do nothing right now ?

    Also, what is the purpose of the small holes at the base of the trap primer ? I'm assuming that any water you'd want to go to the trap, and not outside of the trap primer??

    Thanks alot for you help!
     
    piped, Jan 17, 2019
    #3
  5. kreemoweet

    kreemoweet In the Trades

    Joined:
    Sep 7, 2009
    Location:
    Seattle. WA
    The holes are to prevent contamination of the water supply system in case the waste (drain) pipes back up. Every connection
    between the water supply and drains requires such an "air gap". The valve is to allow for service of the unit if required.
     
    kreemoweet, Jan 17, 2019
    #4
  6. Terry

    Terry Administrator Staff Member

    Joined:
    Aug 17, 2004
    Occupation:
    Plumber
    Location:
    Bothell, Washington
    [​IMG]

    This looks to be similar taken from a previous post here. If your trap primer is leaking then the pipe going down to the trap may not be clear, or perhaps the holes that allow the air break need some work. That doesn't sound right...........maybe the primer itself?
     
    Terry, Jan 18, 2019
    #5
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