Plumbing problems that cause people to call a plumber fall into two categories. It’s either very serious or very obvious. Most people call when there is a leak in a bathroom or kitchen sink. They call if their toilet is clogged. If sewage is backing up into their shower or mudroom sink, you can bet they’ll call for help. It all makes sense. Things directly in front of us or causing significant problems tend to attract our attention.
There are, however, plumbing issues that aren’t visible but are still present, issues that haven’t yet developed into serious problems. These minor issues must be addressed as soon as possible before they become costly and inconvenient repairs. First, let’s talk about determining if your plumbing vent is clogged. Let’s look at the signs and symptoms that can be easily missed if you don’t know what to look for and why it’s critical to address a clogged plumbing vent with the help of an expert plumber.
How Can You Tell If Your Plumbing Vent is Clogged?
Before we get into how to tell if your plumbing vent is clogged, let’s first define a plumbing vent. When plumbing vents are mentioned, many people’s eyes glaze over. The plumbing vent is a vent on your home’s roof. It regulates the air pressure in your plumbing system, allowing water to flow easily through drain pipes. You can also thank your plumbing vent for keeping your house smelling fresh by preventing sewer fumes and gases from entering. So, how do you know if the plumbing vent is clogged?
Have you ever flushed your toilet or sink and heard a gurgling sound? If your plumbing vent is clogged, air cannot escape from your plumbing system, so it seeks the nearest exit—your toilets and drains—and makes noises as it does so.
Is there a strong sewage smell? When the plumbing vent becomes clogged, sewer gases cannot correctly escape and may re-enter your home through drains. This could be the case if your toilets and sinks have a strong odor. Contact a professional plumber immediately if you don’t want your family to breathe in methane. Methane is not only flammable, but it can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Are your drains sluggish? If all your drains are entirely clogged, it could be a sign that your plumbing vent is clogged and unable to properly regulate the air pressure within the system to keep things flowing. Slow drains, on the other hand, can be caused by other plumbing issues, so consult with a local plumber.
For a Clogged Plumbing Vent, Call the Professionals
If you suspect a clogged plumbing vent, I strongly advise contacting a plumbing professional immediately. They have the tools and expertise to inspect your plumbing system and quickly and accurately diagnose the problem. This is not something you should try to inspect or repair on your own, especially if you have no idea what a plumbing vent is. To help prevent clogged drains in the future, call Everest Plumbing to learn more about drain cleaning in Slater-Marietta, SC.
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