Plumbing services in today’s homes depend on carrying away wastewater from dishwashers, toilets, tubs, sinks, and washers. When the wastewater doesn’t flow properly because of clogged plumbing, it can result in a strong smelling and potentially dirty issue.
Clogged Plumbing Causes
Plumbing vents are the upright pipes running inside the walls and out of your home’s roof. They permit air to enter the drainage system by maintaining an even pressure to allow wastewater to flow from your home fast and efficiently. Excessive corrosion, an accumulation of leaves, or bird nests on top can cause the vents to become clogged.
Red Flags of Clogged Plumbing Vents
As water flows down a drain, air is required to balance the pressure in the drain line. This process is the idea behind a venting system. The top three signs your plumbing vent is clogged include:
- Sputtering, gurgling toilets. When airflow is inadequate in a vent because of size or blockage, the plumbing pressure will be greater than the air in the bathroom. When you flush the toilet, the water fights the higher pressure, causing it to sputter and gurgle.
- Slow drain. Elevated drainpipe pressure prevents water from draining off at an average rate. When tubs and sinks drain slowly, it may be an indication of an undersized or blocked vent. There could also be a clog in the pipe that services the water flow.
- Strong sewer gas odor. All plumbing drains have a trap in place where water remains to block sewer gases from reversing into your house. When drain pressure is too high, the water flows out. The result is leaving nothing to prevent the gaseous odors from penetrating your home.
Unfortunately, a blocked or clogged plumbing vent is a challenge to repair because it normally involves breaking walls open to examine the entire drainage system. Unless you have experience, these services should be handled by a plumbing professional.