The trap seal should typically be maintained between what measurements?

The correct range for maintaining trap seal is between 2 and 4 inches. This measurement is critical to ensure that the trap functions properly. The trap seal serves as a barrier that prevents sewer gases and odors from escaping into the living space. If the water level in the trap falls below this range, the effectiveness of the trap can be compromised, leading to potential health hazards from sewer gas exposure.

A trap seal of at least 2 inches is necessary to create this effective barrier, while an upper limit of 4 inches ensures that the trap does not become excessively full, which could lead to problems such as siphoning or backflow under certain conditions.

Trap seals that fall below 2 inches may not sufficiently block sewer gas, while seals above 4 inches are less common and could disrupt drainage. The specified range of 2 to 4 inches balances the need for an effective seal with practical plumbing considerations.