Connswater Homes Repair Manual

Sinks and washbasins

Various problems can occur with Taps (eg. a slow drip indicating the possible need for a new washer).

Supply Pipe

All wash basins are fitted with a Trap . Many have a Bottle Trap like this one, which can easily be cleaned if a blockage occurs.

Waste Pipe

To clean a bottle trap, unscrew the base cap by hand and clean it out. Before unscrewing it, make sure both taps are off and a bucket, or similar receptacle, is placed underneath to catch water and debris. When replacing the cap make sure it is tightly fitted.

Please Tell Us • Is the problem with the sink (in the kitchen) or a wash basin (in the toilet or bathroom)? • What exactly is the nature of the problem (eg. a blockage, leak, crack, etc)? • If there is a leak on the supply pipe, is it the hot or cold one? • If the sink is blocked, what type of trap is it and have you made any attempts to clear it? If an operative is sent out and the blockage has been caused by the tenant, the Association will charge the tenant. • How did the damage occur? • If there’s a problem with the tap, what type is it? (See Taps Page 12).

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