A device and method of using a device for removing water from the trap of a plumbing appliance. In one embodiment, the apparatus provides a housing within which is movably mounted a plunger. An elongate hose is provided at one end of the housing to receive trap water therein upon actuation of the plunger or an inflatable member is provided at one end of the housing to force the trap water by inflating same by actuation of plunger. The disclosure also relates to methods of removing trap water using the apparatus described herein.