Plumbing in the Home/double sink problem

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Expert: Dana Bostick - 11/1/2009


Question
I have a double sink and when I drain one it backs up in the other sink.  Only one sink has a trap and the other has a pipe going over "straight" over to the other sink drain before the trap in that sink.
My question is should I put a trap in the sink that doesn't have one to stop it from backing up into the other sink?

Answer
Hi Terry,
Nope, you can't do that.  Only one trap is allowed per drain line. The draining water is taking the path of least resistance.  That means that the drain line in the wall, past the trap, is probably partially clogged and needs to be snaked.
Good Luck,
Dana

Plumbing in the Home

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Dana Bostick

Expertise

Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. For "item specific" details such as a specific model of fixture, I will need to research and there may not be any useful information available. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not, as a rule, use hot water or steam heating systems, oil fired boilers or private water wells so my knowledge in those areas is pretty limited. There are others here on AllExerts that can probably answer those questions better.

Experience

Retired Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses. Active Certified InterNachi Home Inspector and Infrared Thermographer

Organizations
InterNachi

Publications
SearchWarp, Article Alley, www.DIYHomeInspection.blogspot.com, ActiveRain.com "Rain Maker",

Education/Credentials
30 years in the trades, Licensed General Contractor, Certified Infrared Thermographer

Awards and Honors
InterNachi Certified Property Inspector, Listed FHA Fee Inspector, HUD Mobile Home Inspector

Past/Present Clients
Home buyers, sellers and owners, Investors, Commercial roofing companies (infrared roof scans for moisture intrusion)

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