Wash-basin siphon: types, device, selection tips, installation

The washbasin siphon is a simple device that performs a number of important functions in the drain system. It is used to prevent clogging of the sewer by household waste falling from the sink to the drain. In addition, water is constantly in the knee of the siphon, due to which the gases from the pipes cannot penetrate the room, which means there will be no unpleasant odors in the apartment. We will examine in more detail the design of siphons, and also find out how to choose and install the device correctly.

Siphon device

A siphon is installed between the drain hole of the sink and the sewer pipe and serves not only as a plumbing connector with the system, but also as a two-way barrier for pollution and unpleasant odors.

This device consists of the following parts:

• from a grate or mesh at the drain hole. This element prevents large waste from the sink from entering the sewer;
• nozzles for connecting to the washbasin and draining the washing machine (if necessary);
• outlet pipe;
• rubber gaskets located at the junction of the drain hole with the outlet pipe;
• connecting screw;
• case, siphon tank;
• fasteners (union nuts);
• drainage taps.

Since this device must be resistant to the effects of cold and hot water, as well as chemicals, for the manufacture of siphons use:

• Plastic. Polypropylene is a traditional material for the production of plumbing equipment under consideration due to its low cost, resistance to temperature extremes and corrosion, and also high strength. If you select a model with corrugation when moving the sink to another place, you will not have to bring new pipes to it.

• Corrosion resistant metals. Elements of such a product must be carefully selected according to the size of the drain hole and the entrance of the sewer pipe, but they act as a decorative element. Copper, brass and steel fixtures do not have to be hidden under the sink, as they look beautiful on their own. But they require regular care, without which an oxidizing film forms on the surface of such a metal.

There are several different models of siphons that allow you to choose the option that fits a particular sink.

Varieties of washbasin siphons

Depending on the type of structure and material, several main types of sinks are distinguished:

• With corrugated pipe. They have the simplest design, respectively, they are easiest to install. Such a system is very flexible, does not take up much space, it is easy to hide it behind a sink or in a cabinet, the U-shaped bend is fixed with plastic clamps. But corrugated siphons also have disadvantages: the inner part of the pipe is not smooth, so small waste particles get clogged in its folds. Because of this feature, such devices are clogged more often than others and they need periodic care (using chemical means or ordinary cleaning when removed).

• Siphons of pipe type. They are made of hard plastic or metal, and have a U-shape or S-shape. Due to the smooth surface, food and other wastes do not clog the walls of the product, and often it is not necessary to clean it. But this type of device requires sufficient free space under the sink.

• Bottle siphons. At the moment, this particular species is very popular. The design has a special flask that resembles a bottle in shape - hence the name of the model. They are installed on almost all types of plumbing (sinks, showers, washing machines and dishwashers, etc.). They are compact and have an attractive appearance, especially made of various metals. Another feature: if an object that needs to be removed (jewelry or any other small thing) gets into the drain, this can be done without difficulty.

When choosing a siphon, the parameters of the washbasin should be taken into account. If the dimensions of the drain hole are normal, any standard siphon model will fit. Otherwise, you will have to look for a device of other sizes or order it taking into account all the features of the sink.

Some tips for choosing a quality product

In order not to be mistaken with the device, you should take into account some design aspects that allow it to last longer:

• The most practical option is overflow siphon. If for any reason the sink is full, this device will protect the room from the flood.
• Pay attention to the size of the holes in the siphon grid. Ideally, their diameter should not exceed 1 centimeter.
• The connecting elements are made of durable plastic or stainless steel. Otherwise, the device will quickly become unusable due to corrosion formed on the iron nuts.
• If you plan to connect several plumbing devices to the siphon, you should consider its throughput.

Given all these features, the device will last a long time and will perform its functions efficiently.

We must not forget about caring for the siphon: periodically drain the sewer system with special means from blockages, and in the case of a corrugated pipe, sometimes remove it and clean it from the inside.

How to install a siphon under the wash basin with your own hands

Installing a sink drain is not so difficult if you know the sequence of actions:

1. Rubber gaskets are inserted into the grooves of the device case, and then the parts are twisted. At the same time, it is not recommended to lubricate all of them with sealant, since in order to clean the siphon, it is necessary to unscrew its lower part periodically.
2. A coupling nut and a cone-shaped gasket are put on the branch pipe.
3. Then the nozzle is inserted into the groove of the bulb and secured with a nut manually. It must not be allowed that it rests against the walls of the housing, as in this case the siphon simply will not work.
4. A corrugated or rigid branch is connected to the branch pipe, a cone-shaped gasket is put on the pipe. Everything is fastened with a coupling nut.
5. The protective grill is placed in the drain hole, on the other hand, a pipe with a rubber gasket is attached, everything is connected with a clamping screw.

Before installation, you must carefully check the availability of a complete set of parts, such as nuts and gaskets. Sometimes these elements have to be replaced due to minor defects or inappropriate material.

When the siphon is installed, check the quality of its installation. To do this, the water pressure is turned on, and a napkin is placed under the device to see drops when leaking. If the fluid passes into the sewer without any problems, it means that the device was installed correctly.