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July 18,2024

How to Clear Debris from Your Plumbing Vents

Is there a foul odor emanating from your drains or toilets? Have you noticed unusual bubbling sounds coming from your pipes when you flush a toilet or drain a sink? Does water take longer than usual to drain away? These are potential signs of blocked plumbing vents.

If you’re keen enough, you may have noticed vertical pipes that extend through the roof of almost every building with a plumbing system. In some cases, they’re located on side walls. These pipes are known as plumbing vents. They allow sewer gases to escape safely through the roof instead of entering your home. Besides, they help to maintain proper air pressure in the pipes to ensure smooth water flow.

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However, leaves, twigs, and other yard waste can accumulate at the vent opening, thereby blocking the pipes. This is one of the common plumbing headaches that homeowners experience from time to time, especially residents in areas with heavy tree cover. In this guide, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explains how to clear clogs in your plumbing vents. We are a reputable plumbing service with over 50 years of industry experience and a team of committed plumbers.

Steps To Clear Debris From Plumbing Vents

  • Step 1: Ensure you're working on a stable surface and wearing appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and protective eyewear.
  • Step 2: Identify the vent pipe on your roof. It's often a vertical pipe with a cap or cover.
  • Step 3: If you can reach the blockage, carefully remove any visible debris like leaves, twigs, or animal nests.
  • Step 4: For deeper clogs, a plumbing snake or auger can be used to break through the obstruction. Insert the snake into the vent and feed it down until you meet resistance. Crank the handle to break up the clog.
  • Step 5: After clearing the blockage, use a garden hose to flush the vent with water, removing any remaining debris.
  • Step 6: Check the vent pipe for any damage and repair it if necessary.

While clearing a clogged plumbing vent is a relatively simple task for any DIYer who’s well equipped, there are cases where professional intervention may be needed. If you encounter a stubborn clog or are unable to clear the vent yourself, contact a professional plumber for assistance.

Tips To Keep Your Plumbing Vents Clear

  • Check the vent regularly for signs of blockage or damage.
  • Keep tree branches away from the vent to prevent debris buildup.
  • Regularly clean gutters to prevent leaves and other debris from overflowing onto the roof and potentially blocking the vent.
  • When performing roof repairs, take precautions to prevent sealant or debris from entering the vent.
  • Consider hiring a professional plumbing service to clean the vent if you suspect a blockage.

Need Help? Mr. Rooter Plumbing Is a Call Away

It is worth mentioning that clearing clogged plumbing vents can be dangerous, especially if the vent is located on a high roof. Consider getting professional help from a reputable plumbing repair service if DIY cleaning doesn’t work or you aren’t confident in your ability to get the job done. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the name you can trust when you’re in need of professional vent stack cleaning services.

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