Term

Overflow

An overflow is a channel that carries excess water away if the sink fills too high, preventing spills over the rim. Some butler sinks have an overflow slot, usually near the top of the back wall, and others have none, which reduces connections but means a running tap must not be forgotten. The waste must be compatible with the overflow connection, and a tap placed close to the slot should not block it. See also: Waste, Basket-strainer waste, Trap.

A bright farmhouse kitchen with a white butler sink set into a wooden worktop, a brass bridge tap and a window above.

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