Do you have any idea what a sewer pipe is? From draining sewage to managing drainage system pressure, stack pipes are a key factor in the entire plumbing system. Thus, the problems associated with it adversely affect the entire pipeline structure.
So, in this article, we’ll go through the ABCs of plumbing stack pipes – the basic definition, categories, common problems, and maintenance tips. Let’s start with a comprehensive discussion of this rather essential pipe component.
Defining what a sewer pipe is
The plumbing system is a rather complicated assembly of pipes, and each section has an essential function for the whole structure to function. And one of the most important parts is none other than the sewer pipe or the main drain line of the entire sanitary drainage system.
It is easy to distinguish the stack pipe from other pipes due to its size and arrangement. It’s a big tube that carries everything waste water and other sediments from various parts of your household, including drains, showers, toilets, tubs and sinks.
Moreover, it is positioned in a vertical manner where a series of minor pipes such as drain stacks, soil stacks and vent stacks are connected. Therefore, a plumbing stack pipe is often known as a three-part stack, which unfortunately is not widely used by plumbing professionals.
Even so, it’s important to be able to easily understand it for future reference. So, we will further outline the primary sections of the sewer pipe in the following headings.
Understanding the three main sections of a sewer pipe
1. Drain stacks
Many people have a hard time distinguishing stacks from drains sewage pipes. To help you out, let’s talk about conduit first.
As mentioned earlier, a stack pipe is the entire vertical pipe that runs through different areas of your home, serving as the main conduit of your plumbing system. Meanwhile, drain stacks are vertical pipes that span a section of your home.
In simpler terms, if you have a 3-story household, the sewer line is the line that covers everything from the ground floor to the third floor. Instead, drain stacks are the specific lines on each floor, comprising the top and bottom elements of each drain pipe.
2. Soil piles
Now, for the next component, we have soil stacks, which refers to the lowest sanitary fixture of the main sewer line. This standpipe is generally located outside of you household as it transports waste water or sewage to the sewage system and treatment plant.
Because it carries both solid and liquid waste, a soil stack should adhere to a certain size. Often this is much larger than an outfall pipe to ensure a smooth flow of sewage and other sediments.
3. Vent stacks
To complete the three-part stack, there’s the vent stack, a vertical pipe that climbs up the drain line to the outdoors. Unlike other pipes, it does not carry waste water or sewage. It is used only as a vent stack, which is essential in the entire drain-waste-vent system.
A plumbing vent is essential because it is considered the primary ventilation system where other vents are connected. Installing a vent stack minimizes the potential risk of pressure from sewer gases. Moreover, it is recommended that the main vent stack should pass through the open air to prevent gas leaks.
Some may associate vent stacks with vent stacks. While these two are probably the same in terms of functionality, there are key differences that you need to learn. And since you already understand the former, let’s discuss the latter next.
Compared to vent stacks, vent stacks serve as an extension of the exhaust pipe. It is located at the top of the waste bin, connecting to the roof and excreting the sewer gases.
There are different types of plumbing vents available in the market. Each one has a certain function that you should know in detail to be able to choose the one that suits your needs.
- The most popular type is the true vent, which is the vertical pipe attached to the downspout, vented from the roof.
- A common vent, on the other hand, is one positioned between two fasteners. This vent is mainly mounted on opposite sides of a wall, connecting to the stack through a sanitary cross.
- Another option is the auxiliary vent, which is connected to the drain line and goes to the main vent. Sometimes it is located at the back of the sanitary device.
- Finally, there is the air intake valve, commonly known as the AAV. Technically, this is a valve that unblocks the flow of waste water. Harnessing the importance of gravity, these valves are tasked with letting fresh air in while stopping sewer gases from entering the room.
Finding problems with stack pipes and vent stacks
Now that you have a thorough understanding of the plumbing chimney outline, it is also important to know the typical problems associated with the chimney pipe and drainage pipe in general.
A clogged vent is one of the common but very risky plumbing problems. Below are some of the ways to determine if there is a blockage in the vent:
- gurgling sounds from the bathroom or kitchen sink when washing
- smelly bathroom and kitchen coming out near the drain and pipe
- poor flushing in the toilet
- slow draining in the sink or shower
If you encounter any of these signs, then you need to act immediately. Blockages in pipes and vents lead to negative pressure building up in the plumbing system, which then affects the flow of sewage and wastewater in your home.
And when the transport of dirty water and sediment from your home is interrupted, this leads to other problems, not only with the drainage system, but also with your health. When waste gases seep into sections of your property, you will be surrounded by unpleasant odors that could be harmful to your body.
If these indications are continuously ignored, this can become fatal. It should be noted that sewer gases contain both hydrogen sulfide and methane. These are highly flammable substances and can be explosive when ignited by a flame. And massive sewage discharge it is something no one would want to be a part of.
Solving ventilation problems on your own
If the root cause of the problem is simple, then there are several ways to fix a clogged vent.
1. Cut the branches
First of all, you need to make sure that the ventilation ducts are not blocked. Many times, leaves, stems, and falling debris get into the vent if there is a tree that shades your home. Therefore, you should cut the branches near the ventilation section and regularly check for blockages.
2. Make sure no animals set up home in the vent
Checking the vent regularly is also helpful in preventing vermin and other rodents from setting up home in the vent. If when this happens, the food and even the waste of these animals can cause obstructions in the pipe.
3. Remove any blockages
Cleanliness is a must, and this applies to all parts of the sanitary system. And if there are blockages, then you need to clean and remove the impediments using a plumber’s snake or sometimes called a snail. This tool is very useful in removing unwanted elements from inside the vent.
While using it, push the end portion down into the drain. Next, rotate the handle and continue pushing the coiled snake object until you feel the obstruction. To release the jam, twist the snake against the restriction. If there is still any residue, you can pour hot water to remove these elements.
4. Make sure the vent cap fits
A vent cap is designed to seal the vent and prevent any precipitation in the pipe. While doing this function, a vent cover also ensures smooth entry of air and free exit of vapors. Therefore, it is essential to have the right vent cover for it to handle these tasks effectively.
5. Replace it with a larger vent
If you’ve been dealing with the same clogging issues for a while, maybe it’s time to a ventilation substitute. Your ventilation may not be sufficient to meet the elements passing through the pipes. So, replace it with a larger hole to effectively support the drainage system in your household.
Contacting a professional for major plumbing problems
If you have done all the maintenance and cleaning tips above and you still have problems with drainage or ventilation, then you need the help of a professional. Plumbers are the most important people when it comes to problems related to blocked pipes or damaged vents.
They can easily diagnose a problem and make repairs in a timely manner. Moreover, hiring a plumber is highly recommended if the problem has been recurring or if sewage or sewage is backing up into the drain.
Conclusion
Now that you have a solid idea of how a plumbing stack pipe is contoured and how all other major pipes are connected, this allows you to become more comfortable with your drainage system and plumbing in general. Plus, this can help you do simple repairs yourself and save money on labor costs.
