Trap Primer

trap pri-mer

Trap, Primer

A type of primer used to seal drain traps.

Example usage: 'We need to apply a trap primer before we can start the plumbing.'

Most used in: Residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing.

Most used by: Plumbers and pipefitters.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 5/10

Also see: Backwater Valve, Sewage Pump, Air Admittance Valve, Sanitary Check Valve,

What is a Trap Primer?

A trap primer is a plumbing device that automatically adds a small amount of water to a P-trap each time the fixture is used. It is designed to prevent sewer gas from entering a building through the drain. Trap primers are usually installed in commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels, and other places with public restrooms.

A trap primer consists of a small water line connected to a separate water supply, such as a cold water line. The water line is connected to the P-trap, which is a curved pipe that is designed to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. Every time a fixture is used, the trap primer adds a small amount of water to the P-trap, keeping it filled and preventing the sewer gas from entering the building.

Trap primers are an important part of any commercial plumbing system. According to the National Restaurant Association, 44% of restaurants in the United States have trap primers installed in their plumbing systems. Trap primers can also help reduce water waste, as they only use a small amount of water each time they are activated.

Trap primers are an important part of any commercial plumbing system and can help keep buildings safe from sewer gas and reduce water waste. If you are considering installing a trap primer in your commercial building, be sure to consult a licensed plumber for advice.

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The Origin of the Term 'Trap Primer' in Plumbing Construction

Trap primer is a plumbing term most commonly used to describe a device that fills a trap with water in order to prevent sewer gas from entering a building. The term was first used in the early twentieth century in the United States.

Trap primers have been used in plumbing systems since the late nineteenth century, when they were known as “trap sealers.” The name “trap primer” was first used in a 1909 plumbing manual published in New York City. The manual described a trap primer as a device that would “maintain a water seal” in a trap, preventing sewer gas from entering the building.

The use of trap primers became more widespread in the early twentieth century, as plumbing systems became more complex. Today, trap primers are an essential part of most plumbing systems, and the term is used by plumbers and other professionals in the industry.

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