Removal of Drain Interceptor

There are various different names and types of drain interceptor / drain siphon.The most common types of Interceptor Trap are Winser trap, Kenon trap, Bristol trap, Buchan trap and Reverse Interceptor trap. They are all made from vitreous clay and are still available to purchase today.

An interceptor trap is probably is a crucial part of a drainage system and are most commonly found in properties pre 1940.Their main purpose was to prevent smells and gases from the main public sewer venting into properties, therefore it was thought preventing airborne infection. This is done by the water held in the trap which creates an airtight seal, but allows solids and liquids to flow through. They were also thought help to prevent rodent access from the main sewer, although they must be operational and intact with the rodding eye cap in place. Rats are good swimmers and can easily negotiate the bend or trap of an interceptor and travel through the water. But this was not known at the time.

Interceptors are prone to deterioration and damage though and ground settlement, roots or general abuse can cause them to fail. At this stage they are excavated and removed and a straight line pipe installed, as this is usually easier and quicker than replacing the whole trap.

Interceptor traps are usually found in the outlet of the last manhole chamber from a property prior to the main public sewer connection. There is a rodding eye that gives a straight line access to the sewer. This rodding eye must be capped or sealed otherwise the trap is effectively pointless, because the open pipe will allow odours and rats through. Originally the caps were flat round clay ‘lids’. These days plastic or metal caps and plugs can be installed as a replacement.

If you are having issues with your drain interceptor like reoccurring blocked drains then Flow Sure Drains can make an inspection and advise you accordingly

CALL 01179292755 0117 929 2755