Plumbing help: Flexible drain pipe not code?

[atgcpaul]

I just had my house inspected by our potential buyers. I'm
rather pleased with myself because over the past few years
I've done extensive work on the house (electrical, plumbing,
etc) and the list of things to fix is rather small.

Anyway, their guy says the flexible drain pipe I used under
the vanity sinks does not meet code in California. The reason
I used these was because the new sinks weren't over the original
drain pipes. If these flexible drain pipes (looks like an
accordian) weren't made for this purpose, why sell them at
HD? Argh! If the initial install was done before the code
changed, is it still breaking code?

What is code in this situation? Just a smooth PVC pipe? Since
the drain in the sink isn't directly over the drain pipe, how
do I fix this without major surgery? Can you use those rubber
sleeves with the hose clamps?

Thanks, Paul

[Tequila]

If the drain pipe you're talking about is what I think it is, it's meant for outdoor use in gutter drains.

Sinks are rarely directly over the drain. HD sells a "sink drain kit" which is pvc pipe that makes an "s" shape. That lets you connect the sink to the drain and still follow code.

[atgcpaul]

If the drain pipe you're talking about is what I think it is, it's meant for outdoor use in gutter drains.

Sinks are rarely directly over the drain. HD sells a "sink drain kit" which is pvc pipe that makes an "s" shape. That lets you connect the sink to the drain and still follow code.

Thanks. I'll look for this. I think HD needs to change their
setup then because these pipes are right there amongst all
their other indoor plumbing supplies.


Just found this on the HouseCheck website:


Plumbing codes require that all waste pipe fittings have
smooth interior surfaces to allow the free flow of drain
water. Although the accordion-type, flexible fittings
available at hardware stores may facilitate making the
connections, they will also reduce the rapid flow of water
down the drain.

[kramer katt]

Paul,
in addition to the smooth piping make sure the tailpiece has the down and up bend to form a "p" trap. This stays filled with water to keep sewer gas from coming up into the sink.
also niffty to catch rings when you accidently drop them down there.
kk

[ejs1097]

I think what you installed is for the intended purpose. I purchased a popup assembly with a flexible drain pipe for the same reason you did. My tailpiece is leaded into the drain pipe in the wall so I can't replace it easily.

The neoprene gasket you speak of should do the trick.

Your township might be helpful if you call and ask to be sure.