What is the typical type of trap used in plumbing fixtures?

The P-trap is the most commonly used type of trap in plumbing fixtures due to its effective design that prevents sewer gases from entering the living space while allowing wastewater to drain. The shape of the P-trap creates a water seal, which is essential for maintaining an airtight barrier against odors. This design not only traps debris, preventing clogs, but also allows for easy maintenance since it can be disassembled if needed.

Other types of traps, such as U-traps and S-traps, may be used in certain applications, but they are less common in modern residential plumbing. U-traps can be inefficient as they do not provide a reliable water seal in all situations, while S-traps are prone to siphoning, which can break the water seal and allow odors to escape. C-traps are not typically recognized as standard trap types in plumbing practices. Their design does not offer the same level of functionality and effectiveness for the prevention of gas escape as the P-trap does.