How to Replace a Tub Bottle Trap

Various types of pipes below the drain of a bathtub connect to the drainpipe, including S-traps, P-traps, shallow traps and bottle traps. A bottle trap is horizontal pipe that collects all blockage such as hair and dirt at the bottom of the pipe in a small trap. If your tub isn't draining, you may need to remove the blockage from the trap. If you detect a leak coming from the trap, you need to replace it. You can purchase a new bottle trap from a home improvement store or online retailer.

Pipe wrench
Drip pan

Instructions

- 1
  Access the bottle trap in one of two ways. Either remove the side panel of the bathtub or locate the bottom drainpipes from the floor below the bathtub. You may need to access a crawlspace.
- 2
  Locate the bottle trap, a small, horizontal pipe coming out of the bottom of the tub. Use a flashlight if necessary.
- 3
  Place a drip pan below the bottle trap, then unscrew the bottom cap of the bottle trap, using your hands. Allow for all blockage in the trap to fall into the drip pan.
- 4
  Disconnect the bottle trap from the bottom of the tub and drainpipe, using the pipe wrench. Pull out the entire bottle trap piece.
- 5
  Connect the new bottle trap to the bottom connector of the tub, using the pipe wrench. Tighten the other connector of the trap to the drainpipe.
- 6
  Screw on the bottom cap for the bottle trap tightly, if it's not already connected. Turn on the water and check for leaks.

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