1-1/2" PVC Ground Trap with Clean Out: Why It Helps

By Maintenance Depot Plumbing Team · Last reviewed

Quick answer

A 1-1/2" PVC ground trap with clean-out holds a water seal that blocks sewer gas and insects, and its removable plug lets you clear blockages without cutting pipe. It suits shower, floor and wash-area drains.

1-1/2" PVC Ground Trap with Clean Out

Drains that smell or block often have one thing in common: a poor or missing trap. The 1-1/2" PVC ground trap with clean-out (model G131005) gives you a proper water seal plus easy access for maintenance.

Specs at a glance

SpecDetail
ProductGround trap with clean-out
Size1-1/2"
MaterialPVC
ModelG131005
AccessRemovable clean-out plug

What a ground trap does

A trap holds a small amount of water in its bend. That water seals out sewer gas, odours and insects while still letting waste flow through. Ground traps are typically installed at or below floor level on drain lines from showers, floors and wash areas.

Why the clean-out matters

The removable clean-out plug lets you get into the trap without cutting pipe. When hair, sand or debris builds up, you simply unscrew the plug, clear the trap, and close it again.

Common applications

  • Shower and bathroom floor drains
  • Laundry and wash-area drains
  • Outdoor wash-down areas and patios

Installation tips

  1. Set the trap level so the water seal stays full.
  2. Point the clean-out where you can reach it later. Don't bury it under tile.
  3. Clean, prime and cement each joint with PVC cement.
  4. Run water to fill the trap and check for leaks.

Keeping it working

  • Pour water down rarely used drains every few weeks so the seal doesn't dry out.
  • Use a drain strainer to stop hair and grit.
  • Open the clean-out once or twice a year if the drain is heavily used.

Prefer a simpler fitting where access isn't needed? See the 1-1/2" ground trap without clean-out (G131004).

Frequently asked questions

Why does my floor drain smell?

The water seal in the trap has likely evaporated. Pour water down the drain to refill it, and use it regularly.

Where should the clean-out face?

Point it where you can reach it later, and never bury it under tile or concrete.

When should I choose a trap without a clean-out?

If there is already a clean-out nearby on the line, the simpler G131004 trap is enough.

Buy 1-1/2" PVC Ground Trap with Clean Out at Maintenance Depot