When you learn all about household plumbing 101, you’re introduced to words like pipes, drains and fixtures. But what about the plumbing vent?
You’ll normally spot one on the roof, but the truth is that just about every plumbing fixture will include a plumbing vent pipe as a crucial part of the design. But what is a vent like this really for? Is it really necessary, or is it one of those over-the-top aspects of any design that isn’t all that important to know about – and ensure is working properly?
If you’ve come here to have your questions about the humble plumbing vent pipe answered, we’re happy to oblige. The most experienced and skilled drain plumbers in Brisbane and beyond have seen and done so much in the industry that they are the best-placed to ask about every single plumbing issue – including the plumbing vent.
So with no further ado, let’s answer all of the most commonly-asked questions about the plumbing vent pipe:
1. Is it just to let gases escape?
Maybe you’ve heard it called a ‘stink pipe’, and therefore think the plumbing vent – or sewage vent – is all about simply letting foul smells escape to the open air.
Actually, it’s all about pressure – or, more specifically, negative pressure. When water or waste flows through a pipe, negative pressure is created – a bit like the pressure you’ve experienced by sucking liquid through a straw. With a build-up of pressure, the flow can stop altogether – or even cause the standing water in P-traps to be expelled.
2. Does every fixture have a vent pipe?
If it’s a plumbing waste fixture, the answer is use – for the reason given above but also simply to stop those foul and dangerous sewer gases from leaking inside the house instead.
3. What would happen without a vent?
As already outlined, your stormwater and sewer drain lines simply won’t work properly without it being effectively vented. Waste water and solid waste could stop in their tracks, causing a spill-over of drains, toilets and other plumbing problems.
4. Why have I heard the vent being called a ‘stack’?
That’s because the vent’s main section is referred to as the stack. When your system is being designed, the idea is to make the stack serve the main bathroom and exit through the roof. But think of the stack like the trunk of a tree, with other vent ‘branches’ extending out from your other plumbing fixtures.
5. How do I know if my vent is working?
Unfortunately, just like other aspects of your plumbing, pipes and stormwater drainage system, these vents do sometimes become blocked. If your plumbing system is working fine, you probably don’t have to be concerned about a potential blockage. But if your drains don’t seem to be working right, and the normal ways you unblock them aren’t working, the vent could very well be the culprit.
Watch out for:
- Gurgling/sucking sounds
- Water flows out of drains
- Drain or sewage smells.
Vent trouble? Call Brisbane’s drain masters
Are you having problems with your plumbing or sewage vent pipe? If so, you’re already in exactly the right place with Brisbane’s best in all plumbing and drain cleaning matters – Drain Masters Plumbing. Whether it’s a check, early assistance with a developing issue of a full-blown plumbing emergency at 3 am, we have you covered with skilled, licensed plumbing technicians and all the most specialised equipment. For a workmanship guarantee and a great deal, give the friendly team at Drain Masters Plumbing a call today.
