What Are Plumbing Vents?
One of the most depended upon systems of any household is the plumbing system. Needless to say, having plumbing issues can be very disruptive. Read ahead to learn more about your plumbing system, specifically about how your vent pipes work and what to do if they stop working properly.
Why Do You Need Plumbing Vents?
The job of your plumbing vent, sometimes referred to as a vent stack, is to regulate the air pressure in your plumbing system. Similar to how drain pipes transfer waste and water out of your home, plumbing vents allow fresh air into the system, removing gasses and odors. While the fresh air is used to allow for smooth transfer of water in your drain pipes, no actual water should be inside your plumbing vents. This pipe is connected to your roof vertically, running down the side and into the drain line. The vent stack is found next to the main roof vent, channeling any exhaust gas into the vent and maintaining the proper air pressure in your system.
Why Maintaining Air Vents Is Important
The plumbing air vents in your home are an integral part of the plumbing system. Both the drainage pipes and air vents work together to remove water and waste from your home. The drainage pipes carry waste to either the city sewage line or directly to a septic tank. Any time a bathtub is drained or a toilet is flushed, the two systems work together to move water through the drainage pipes, while the air vents prevent the sewer gases from entering the home. While the vents are found on roofs, they will be found away from windows and AC units so any gasses are able to dissipate.
Problems With Vent Pipes
When you face an issue with your plumbing air vents, you can be sure that your plumbing drainage will be involved as well. Common signs of a blocked up vent include gurgling sounds from the drains, finding small pools of water around indoor drains, or simply if water is draining slowly.
When a vent becomes blocked, the air pressure loses its balance and negative pressure will begin to build up inside the drainage pipes. You will need to clear the blocked vent, as solutions like clearing a blocked drain are only temporary fixes. Vents that go uncleared and allow water to pass through the drainage pipes slowly risk having a sediment buildup inside the pipes, leading to expensive pipe repairs, or in some cases, full replacements.
We’re Reddi to Help
If you find yourself unable to clear a clogged drain with the use of a plunger or drain cleaner, the blockage may need to be examined by a professional. If the vent goes long enough that it becomes completely covered, a vacuum seal will form, causing the gurgling to go away and allowing gasses and the smell of sewage inside the affected rooms. Situations like these should be immediately examined, something Reddi Services is available to help with 24/7.
Reddi Services is always ready to help with the skilled professionals and state-of-the-art equipment necessary to respond to your job – on time and on budget. We have provided many quality services to our clients since 1957.
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