Wavin HepvO designed as an alternative to the water trap

Since they were first invented in 1775, water traps have remained a key part of modern plumbing solutions. While they have varied in shape and style over the years, the key aspects of their design remain the same: a bend in the pipework which catches water and creates a seal between the sewer and the room above, preventing the escape of sewer water and foul smells.

But as any good plumber and experienced plumbing staff in builders’ merchants know, traditional water traps can lose their seal due to evaporation, siphonage, leaking or movement, which is a problem for home-owners.

Wavin HepvO is an innovative waterless trap which doesn’t encounter any of these issues and is suitable for use on a range of sanitary appliances.

The unique design of Wavin HepvO means there’s no U-bend in which waste material can potentially build-up causing blockages and smells. HepvO has been rigorously tested and is resistant to common household chemicals such as cleaners and detergents. Soaps, hair or food particles are less likely to cause a block with the HepvO valve.

Saving Space, Time and Money

Traditional water traps often take up a lot of space, reducing design freedom and impacting the layout of the bathroom or kitchen.

As space in modern builds is at an absolute premium, HepvO also offers the benefit of being suitable for a wide range of household plumbing applications, from under shower trays to kitchen sinks, meaning homeowners can save space in multiple rooms across the home.

Where form and function meet

Given the upsurge in kitchen and bathroom renovations in the home and the ‘magazine finish’ consumers demand, aesthetics are as important as practicality and efficiency. This is a key consideration for consumers as well as plumbers and construction professionals when it comes to installation.

HepvO is ideal for modern minimalist bathroom or kitchen designs. Its smooth lines means that the valve has a very limited impact on the overall look of a space and can be left exposed without creating an eyesore.

It is a key example of solutions which achieve this balance of form and function.

It minimises the visual impact of drainpipes and discharge systems, simplifies maintenance requirements for homeowners and does the job it is designed for effectively.

First-of-its-kind technology

Wavin’s HepvO waterless traps were introduced 20 years ago as the first-of-its-kind technology, developed with an elastomeric membrane which creates a seal between the sewer and the occupied space above. As water enters the silicone valve, the membrane opens until the flow stops. The outer pipe is a rigid structure which prevents any damage to the inside membrane. The membrane is so lightweight that only a very small amount of water is required to open it, meaning it can also be used in condensate drainage systems. With no need for a U-bend, the trap can be installed vertically or horizontally without impacting on the system’s ability to seal off discharge systems.

The system’s straight-through design minimises the build-up of waste material and ensures an outstanding flow. This innovative technology helps to reduce the risk of blockages, saving homeowners time as well as potentially costly maintenance work.

Also, if properties are left unoccupied for long periods of time, or drainage systems aren’t properly maintained, the typical ‘U’ trap with a water seal can sometimes dry out and fail, meaning sewer gases can make their way back into living spaces. This is not an issue with HepvO which makes it ideal for use in holiday homes, motor homes or even boats.

HepvO allows plumbers provide their customers with both value-adding expertise and the best possible result.

More information and ‘how to’ videos can be found at www.wavin.ie