A pan connector is a plumbing fitting used to connect the outlet of a toilet (the pan) to the soil pipe, which carries waste away to the sewer system. It's a crucial component in toilet installations, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection between the toilet and the drainage system.
Key Features of a Pan Connector:
Flexible or Rigid Design: Pan connectors come in both flexible and rigid versions. Flexible pan connectors are useful when the alignment between the toilet outlet and the soil pipe isn't perfect, while rigid connectors are used when the pipes are perfectly aligned.
Standard Sizes: Typically designed to fit a standard toilet outlet size of 4 inches (or 110mm), with the other end connecting to the soil pipe, which is also commonly 110mm in diameter.
Sealing Mechanism: The connector has a rubber or silicone seal inside to create a watertight and airtight connection, preventing leaks and odors from escaping.
Types of Pan Connectors:
Straight Connector: Used when the toilet outlet and soil pipe are in a straight line.
Offset Connector: Has a slight angle or offset, allowing for slight misalignment between the toilet outlet and the soil pipe.
Flexible Connector: Can bend to accommodate various angles and positions, ideal for installations where the alignment is tricky.
Swivel Connector: Features a joint that allows for rotation, providing even more flexibility in aligning the toilet with the soil pipe.