SourcePlumbing can seem straightforward. You connect pipes to the incoming water supply to allow the water to reach your appliance. Other pipes take the wastewater away and remove it from your property. It can seem that simple. However, there are many other factors to consider, some of which revolve around pressure.
For example, the pressure of your water supply will help you define how powerful a shower is. But, too much pressure and you‘ll damage valves, causing leaks. That’s why many homes have pressure reduction valves.
Pressure also plays a part when removing the wastewater from your home.
The Plumbing Vent
All appliances connected to the waste pipes have a trap in them, this is filled with water to prevent the gases produced in the waste system from entering your home. When you allow water to drain down the pipes it is replacing the air that is in the pipes. However, for this to happen the air must be allowed to escape somewhere. If it couldn’t escape the pressure of the water may not be enough to move the air and the water wouldn’t drain.
Equally, as the water finishes draining air needs to be sucked back into the pipes to prevent the water from being drawn back up.
In short, the pressure inside the pipe needs to be balanced with the pressure outside at all times. This creates a smooth and efficient plumbing system.
The plumbing vent allows air to be drawn in and out of the system, helping to balance the flow of wastewater and ensure everything works properly.
The plumbing vent also allows air to circulate, that’s why every home should have two vents. One allows air into the system, the other allows it out. When set up correctly this ensures the gases produced by waste products are removed and allowed back into the air above the height of your house. This prevents the odours from entering your home, they can cause health issues.
Issues With Plumbing Vents
IF your plumbing vent isn’t working properly then it is probably blocked. You may be able to see the blockage from the top of the vent pipe. If not, you’ll need to invest in a drain camera and inspect all the pipes to ensure they are clear.
When you have plumbing vent issues your appliances are likely to drain slower, you will notice smells getting into the home, and there may even be standing water in your sinks and showers.
These things can be caused by a clog in your drain pipe, hence the reason for the drain camera. It will allow you to rule this out or locate it and clear it.
But, if it is a plumbing vent issue and you need to check in the top of the pipe, you’re going to need to get on your roof. That’s not something that everyone is comfortable doing.
In short, once you’ve identified the issue it may be better to let the professionals handle it for you.
