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Ever wondered what those pipes sticking out of your roof do? They’re called plumbing vents, and while they don’t carry water, they play an important role in your plumbing. Plumbing vents regulate air pressure in the drain system, allowing wastewater to flow freely and preventing sewer gases from entering your home.
Without plumbing vents, your home’s drainage system wouldn’t work efficiently. As such, we're going to break down how plumbing vents function, why they matter, and what to do if something goes wrong.
You probably haven't given plumbing vents much of a thought and may not even know the function they serve. Well, they prevent sewer gases from creeping into your living space by safely directing them outside.
A DWV system is a network of pipes that removes wastewater (drain and waste pipes) and regulates air pressure (vent pipes), ensuring smooth drainage and directing sewer gases safely outside.
It consists of drainpipes that carry waste away that connect to the main sewer line, and vent pipes that regulate air pressure to keep everything flowing smoothly.
Without a DWV, unpleasant odours and even harmful gases like methane can enter your home, which alone makes them the unsung heroes of your home’s plumbing system. The plumbing vents of your DWV help water flow smoothly through your drains by preventing suction issues that could slow or even stop drainage. As a result, maintaining balanced air pressure in your pipes keeps everything running efficiently.
Even though plumbing vents are out of sight, just like the rest of your plumbing, they can still run into issues that affect your entire drainage system.
Leaves and debris are the biggest culprits for clogged vents, but we've even seen bird nests and possums clog vent pipes, leading to gurgling drains and slow water flow.
Poorly installed or inadequate plumbing ventilation systems can cause slow drainage, frequent clogs, or even foul odours in your home. As such, we stress the importance of engaging professional plumbers to install a properly functioning drainage system.
There are many telltale signs that you have a problem with your plumbing vents, including slow drains and drainage pipes, gurgling sounds, foul smells, bubbling toilets or a weak toilet flush.
So, what should you do if you notice any of these?
There are a few DIY plumbing steps you can take before calling in a professional.
When was the last time you cleared the leaves from your gutters? If debris can clog your gutters, imagine what it can do to your plumbing vents. As such, start by clearing your gutters and inspecting your roof vents for blockages—leaves, nests, or debris could be restricting airflow.
If you notice any sewer gas smells inside your home, or gurgling sounds when draining water, it’s time to call a professional as these could lead to larger, costly issues, and pose health risks.
Now, let's look at the different types of plumbing vents and the functions each serves for keeping your home's plumbing system running smoothly.
You may have seen big old vent stacks in your hometown's sewerage systems. Homes also have these, albeit on a much smaller scale. They are the main vertical plumbing air vents that extend through the roof, allowing sewer gases to escape and fresh air to enter the system. They connect directly to the main drainage stack.
Plumbing vent system pipes run from various drain lines to the outside, preventing pressure issues that could slow drainage or cause those gurgling noises you hear.
Air Admittance Valves (AAVs) are a modern alternative to traditional vent stacks. They’re commonly used in new renovations or where traditional venting isn’t practical.
There are specific plumbing codes to follow when installing vent pipes to ensure safety and compliance, including guidelines for vent size, placement, number of fixtures being vented and required pipe slope.
A reliable plumber should know all your local codes and ensure your roof plumbing venting system is compliant.
Besides being familiar with local building codes, a professional plumber knows that incorrect installation can lead to safety hazards and has the expert knowledge to ensure your system operates efficiently. Additionally, a licensed plumber provides a guarantee for their work, offering you priceless peace of mind, and reducing the risk of future issues.
Do you live in an older home and you're noticing some of the telltale signs we've mentioned? Just to recap, these include unpleasant odours, gurgling sounds, and water backflow. Chances are the vent is old and possibly severely damaged, causing frequent problems. This is when a replacement is often more cost-effective in the long term. While more expensive up front, replacing the vent ensures a durable, permanent solution, preventing recurring issues and maintaining your plumbing system’s efficiency. It's like a total reset on your home's DWV system.
If you suspect plumbing vent problems, the best thing you can do is have a professional inspect your system and recommend the most cost-effective solution. At Plumberoo, our experienced Sydney Eastern suburbs plumbers are ready to provide expert advice and top-notch service.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get your plumbing system back to optimal condition!
No, vents are essential for proper drainage, preventing sewer gases from entering your home and allowing wastewater to flow smoothly.
Signs of a clogged vent include slow draining, foul odours and unusual noises.
Without proper venting systems, you may experience drainage issues and pressure imbalances that could cause wider plumbing issues.
Air admittance valves can be a good solution in scenarios where traditional pipe venting isn't possible but they may not be suitable in all situations.
