Can My Plumbing Vents Clog?
The plumbing systems in houses these days rely on plumbing vents to take away water waste from the home’s toilets, tubs, sinks, dishwashers and washing machines. It can become extremely smelly and dangerous when there is a clog in your plumbing vent. It is important to contact a plumbing professional immediately if you suspect a clog in your plumbing vent.
What are plumbing vents?
Plumbing vents can also be called vent stacks. These pipes run inside the walls of your home and go out your roof. These vents allow air to go through your drainage system. This allows the pressure to stay even so your home’s wastewater can flow quickly and efficiently.
Three signs your vents are clogged.
Toilets that gurgle or sputter. When there is a blockage in your plumbing vents, there will not be enough air flowing to equalize your toilet when flushed. This will make the water agitated and result in a sputter or gurgle sound when you flush.
Water draining slowly. A drainpipe that has increased pressure will not allow water to drain at an average rate. If you notice the water in your sink or bathtub draining slower than normal, there might be a clog in that pipe.
Stinky odor. The plumbing drains in your house have a water trap that helps block sewer gasses from going into your home. But when the pressure in your drain is too high, this water will flow out and allow the odors to enter. One of the most obvious signs that your plumbing vent is clogged is the smell of sewer.
How to keep your plumbing vent clear.
- Don’t put grease down the sink. Save grease from cooking in a can and dispose of it in the trash.
- Don’t rinse coffee grounds down the sink. Dispose of it in the trash.
- Use a screen to cover the drain opening to minimize food, hair, and soap scum from washing down your pipes.
- Run hot water after every use. This will keep oils from solidifying in the pipes.
- Periodically put banking soda with hot water down your sink. This is a great cleaning agent and also helps fight against odors.
How to clear vent pipe blockages.
The best place to clear a vent pipe blockage is on the roof. You will need a flashlight, garden hose, and a plumber’s snake. First, see if you can reach any blockage near the top of the vent and run the plumbers snake down the pipe. Then, feed the garden hose down the pipe and have someone turn on the water in the house. Listen for water backing up and you will feel a whoosh when the weight of the water force the clog down the drain.
Working on the roof can be a very dangerous task and it is advised that you contact an experienced professional to complete this task.
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