What Not To Do With Sink Drain Vent Pipe- Plumbing Nightmare

www.homebuildingandrepairs.com... Click on this link if you're interested in learning more about plumbing and other construction related topics. Every once in a while I feel the need to make a video on something home owners should be aware of and repair as soon as possible. You're not going to run into this one too often, but every once in a while you're going to find a sink with an open vent, streaming horrible smells and odors from the waste pipe plumbing system into the room and this video should explain the reason why. For more interesting tips and ideas about building, maintenance and repairs, visit our websites.

[@gregvancom]

Click on this link for an updated version of this video.kzbin.info/www/bejne/oaSupZ94mpaNnc0

[@jimmielanders5126]

O

[@Ubbethedwarf]

what should i do if i have that pipe and its spraying water when I take the plug from the sink after doing dishes

[@rogersdrummer1]

To fix this problem you need an Air Admittance Valve, the size of the vent pipe will be determine by the total amount of fixture units you are venting on that branch.

[@willheginbotham9080]

This is so exciting can't believe how valuable this video is. Best 4 minutes ever 😂😂😂

[@joshcowart2446]

We used to do something similar. I worked in a small town without an inspector so to save people money we’d come through the floor of the cabinet and run a vent up near the bottom of the cabinet. We’d use a studor vent though and keep it up as high as possible so it’s above the flood rim.

[@joemagnuson6217]

Thanks Greg for your response, and I apologize for pointing out your mis-pronunciation. With further research after watching your video I found the proper name and device for venting behind a sink is called an "auto vent". It's a one way air valve, and is commonly used behind sinks installed in island counters where venting to the nearest wall and through the roof is not an option. My local Lowe's had three different styles in stock.

[@gabrieljabbo5403]

Yes you absolutely right. Of the of November am thinking to do plumbing course, but I should find someone to work with him now to do apprenticeship.

[@thesingincowboy658]

Ive been searching for the cause of the funky smell for months, this is the culprit. Thanks a ton.

[@gregvancom]

You're welcome and thanks for letting other know this can be stinky.

[@gregvancom]

Thanks for taking the time to comment on the video. It sounds like these studor venting systems might be approved by building departments and therefore can be used. Make sure that you check with your local building department before installing them.

[@alankwellsmsmba]

Never contact your building department for anything unless you get caught. Then beg for forgiveness and permission. Building departments are light years behind current building theory and often demand you do the wrong thing.

[@gregvancom]

Thanks for the useful information and you're absolutely right.

[@gdeangelkick]

I just want to add one thing... this kind of venting used to be found in older homes that would have a WHOLE HOUSE trap before the main connection to the sewer line. Some of those old houses would actually predate the municipal sewer, and were sometimes connected to "questionable" septic systems, such as pipe leading down a bank to a swamp, river, etc. But I digress... some weekend warrior would come along to replace the dated, ancient sink, and re-install "new" looking PVC in the exact configuration as the old pipes. As long as the whole house trap is still there, you don't have to worry about the sewer gas and run out to cap it up like your house is going to explode. But if it was removed when the house was hooked up to central sewer, which was common, then this is a real hazard and I would think that the smell would have driven the homeowner crazy, but also your house can explode from methane build up. Have a look in the basement before you freak out after watching this video -- check if there is an old cast iron trap at the main line connection.

[@mr.kenslifeshop4034]

I have an old rat trap. Had an old s-trap got rid of it and put an air admittance valve in.

[@gregvancom]

Yes vent pipes correctly installed will definitely help with the gluckita-gluckita noise and it odd that you never smelt any sewer gases. I have to admit, here in California, I rarely came across a home that didn't originally have indoor plumbing and would imagine it would be more common on the East Coast.

[@chevy6969200]

AAV. Duh. Great video! I love KZbin when I need knowledge. A loose toilet is the number 1 cause of sewer gas smell. It is often times not thought of as the cause of the smell. 99% of the time it will not leak water onto your floor when flushed. A loose toilet can allow sewer gas into your bathroom and you do not know the smell is coming from there. Your toilet should not move or rock back and forth much at all. Your floor may be uneven. An 1/8 shim or 2 may be needed to level your toilet before installing a new wax ring. Sometimes it can just be tightened to get a good seal. If not, a new wax toilet ring needs to be installed. I install toilets everyday M-F. It can be difficult and it is easy to do it wrong and have a leak. Not a water leak, but a sewer gas leak. Also you should be able to see water near the top of your tub or shower drain, if not your P trap is leaking and needs fixed. The P trap holds water and does not allow sewer gas to enter your dwelling. Unused sinks, tubs and showers need to have water added periodically if not being used. AAV vents can also fail and allow sewer smell into your dwelling. Even an improperly glued pvc joint can allow sewer gas to escape. If it is just a P trap that needs cleaned. I just pour a little bit of bleach into the P trap and let it sit. If my P trap is full of build up of hair and other things, I use a toilet plunger I bought for JUST sinks, showers and tubs. Add some water and plunge the blockage back and forth until it drains out of the P trap.

[@andrewevanoff1192]

This is how my R-Pod Travel trailer was plumbed from the factory. Professionaly designed and built with pride.

[@captainlatias9560]

thanks for the great knowledge.

[@christyinthecarolinas]

I have water coming out of the top of my kitchen sink vent thing. How do i fix this??? Is it clogged or something?

[@gregvancom]

I would imagine they serve their purpose, if you're doing a remodel, but I agree, it probably will be better to run the vents up and out. I didn't know they were relatively inexpensive either and I wonder if other countries use them more than we do.

[@s0ul3ssm4n]

thanks a ton man, i was trying to figure out what this up pipe just like this one is for awhile now. i ahve one in my kitchen that overflows actually.

[@jimmytate7587]

its important to remember that even though national plumbing codes may allow these vents, the area they are in is the governing agency, local codes can and do overide national codes. In California I have never seen an air admittance valve in a building. I do remember seeing one now in a travel trailer. Its possible you may be allowed to use them in your area but you should check first. Also my realtor told me that during a prepurchase home inspection, such a valve or construction such as the photo, would quickly negate a sale if the homeowner would not have the building brought up to code.

[@gregvancom]

+JIMMY TATE I think you're the first person in a long time who agrees with my point about building codes and the fact that they might not be approved in all areas. Putting an air admittance valve on a vent like the one shown in the video might provide you with a temporary fix and work better than my originally suggested method of installing a cap, but might not be an approved fix by local building authorities.

[@gregvancom]

I think not having a vent at all would be better than having something like this and you got a good point if you put enough water in it on a regular basis and don't have opened vent pipes, then you might be okay.

[@emutiny]

ive seen and installed these "studor" type vents frequently. They are commonly used and accepted by inspectors in my area. Raleigh NC.

[@gregvancom]

I keep forgetting about those things, mainly because I never use them and I wonder if they're approved by our building codes. I've personally never seen one installed, have you?

[@gregvancom]

I guess I forgot that one also, but I can't have an answer for everything, that's with you guys are for. If you have a situation like this, it wouldn't be a bad idea to use a studor vent, even though I'm not a big fan of them. The only reason why I'm not a big fan, is because I've never used them and don't really have enough information about them.

[@gregvancom]

Capping the vent off is the easy solution, next would be using an air admittance valve. However the best way to fix something like this would be to run the vent out to the exterior of the building or tie it into another existing vent.

[@assassin8ur500]

gregvancom will it get me a nightmare?

[@jordanwalker1184]

+gregvancom agreed I was thinking why not auto vent it. its not the best fix but it is definitely cheaper and simple just glue that sucker on.

[@gregvancom]

I think the main point I was trying to make in this video is that it is easier to cap it off, even though others suggest using an auto vent that could fail, taking you back to square one. I understand the argument that there is a possibility, not a guarantee that the water in the trap next to the pipe you just capped off could get sucked out by a nearby plumbing fixture like a toilet after it flushes, but again it might not, taking me back to my original point of the video.

[@bingobongo445]

+gregvancom And speaking of caps.... if you even dared to try something like this in my house,I would bust a cap in you.

[@gregvancom]

I know someone who deserves a cap put in them and would love to send them to your home with a cap. Just to make sure, I could send them over with multiple caps, may be a one for one deal.

[@72cabana]

Great video thanks

[@David-em1fm]

you install a auto vent on that and you get no gas odor. It will meet the 2012 plumbing code requirements. no need for unneeded vents.

[@gregvancom]

You're welcome and thanks for watching.

[@gabrieljabbo5403]

Thanks Alot for your information about Sink Drain Vent Pipe. Actually It's very good idea. I wish one day I can be plumber.

[@gregvancom]

+gubrael jabbo Think of the money you'll make.$$$$$$$$$$

[@gabrieljabbo5403]

+gregvancom Yes you absolutely right. Of the end of November am thinking to do plumbing course, but I should find someone to work with him now to do apprenticeship.

[@gregvancom]

Absolutely, try to find someone who's willing to train you and make sure they know what they're doing. The worst education you could receive would be from someone who isn't a master plumber.

[@martinkeatings7126]

This is why in Scotland we have a huge pipe the runs from the top of the building to the bottom of the building. A vent at the top of it on the roof. That way all plumbing gets connected to it.

[@gonzalorosales6642]

Martin Keatings

[@jimmytate7587]

right on greg. I think many people think that the national codes are the last word when they are actually only a guideline for local authorities and any change the locals might enact are not going to be affected by the national codes.

[@gregvancom]

+JIMMY TATE It's difficult to understand, but that's why I often suggest checking local building codes, because they aren't always going to be the same. It's the problem where someone says you can do something, because someone else is allowed to in their area, but you're not allowed to in yours and these videos make it even worse, because they can be watched all over the world where the building codes are a lot different.

[@tech99070]

And unless you're pulling a permit, do what works in your own house, as long as it really does WORK. If you're making serious changes, then yes absolutely comply with current codes. But if you're trying to fix something absurd like this, or a slow drain, or something.... Just make it work in a way that is safe and effective.

[@albertgunter640]

Just because it works doesn't mean it is safe...

[@terrybyrd3738]

Wrong - National codes are legally minimum standards. Local codes can be more restrictive, but never less than national.

[@gwynnepribble697]

Does the cap on the AAV come off and should I clean it. I have bad smells under my sinks. I’ve taken the P traps off and cleaned them, but it keeps coming back.

[@gregvancom]

According to most of the information I heard so far, you can simply put an air admittance valve over the vent pipe, even though it might meet your local building codes. You should check with your local building department for more information or gather more information on air admittance valves.

[@alankwellsmsmba]

A youtube video search is far superior to a call to the building department which employs nepotism to fill slots.

[@geojor]

thanks for sharing...

[@brucestorey917]

What you are looking at is a sink that was once connected with an S-Trap. Everything you see is correct for a conversion from an S-Trap to a standard P-Trap except, whoever did the conversion either forgot, or neglected, to install the air admittance valve on the top of the vent.

[@PBMAtlNiqqa]

Every state is different every state has different plumbing codes I live in Atlanta Ga and this is allowed as long as the pipe that hooks up the vent is longer than 6 inches you good to go.

[@markgodfrey7056]

Luis de la cruz , wrong dude...you do have the six inch part right but it needs to be topped off with a pro-vent . They are widely used in Mobile homes.

[@antonio6736]

I did not come out right upstairs bathroom I have a two sinks one of them has air vent system the other one doesn’t so I let the water run for 15 minutes or 20 and it starts leaking downstairs slowly is out the reason why I don’t know what the second bathroom air vent or what is it

[@Tobolose]

Not to mention the illegal 1/4 bend on the vertical tail piece and it does look set up to receive a AAV

[@simonsmith2642]

Cap it temporarily. But you need to put a studor valve on it.

[@c.tucker95]

What is a stupor valve

[@simonsmith2642]

@@c.tucker95 An air admittance valve is an inline valve that allows air into a drain line to help water drain more quickly. An under-sink installation of an air admittance valve will allow air to equalize the pressure within the drain without allowing sewer gases to escape the valve and into the house

[@c.tucker95]

@@simonsmith2642 okay well I have found the problem, I have a blockage of paper prod bcuz my snake reaches it and pulled a little bit out but I couldn't get it any further. I wonder if there might be another trap further down the way like under the house at that t valve

[@antonio6736]

Upstairs bathroom I have a tool sings one only has the air vent Do I have to have another one for the other sink because I let the water run for 15 minutes and water comes down downstairs in the kitchen slowly is that why

[@awizardalso]

I've redone all the plumbing in my house that was built in 1913. The plumbing was added years later and all the drain pipes were lead. I replaced all the drain pipes from the roof to the basement with PVC. The bathroom is directly over the kitchen and everything was easy to connect all the drains together. It was also easy to add a vent pipe for the bathtub and for the kitchen sink down below. The bathroom sink vent just runs up into the attic and connecting it to the vent pipe out the roof wasn't possible, so I just put an Air Admittance Valve on it. Simple solution.

[@gregvancom]

You bring up a good point and as long as local building authorities approved the use of air admittance valves in locations where it would be difficult to place a vent pipe, then your only problem would be to make sure that it continues to work properly. Remember air admittance valves are mechanical devices that can fail.

[@awizardalso]

I never apply for a permit to do anything inside my house. The attic is only used for storage and there's a open gap under the eaves, so even if the valve fails the attic is well ventilated. It's also a screw on type and easily replaceable as the base glued to the vent pipe, . The only thing that may not be allowed by code, is the bottle trap I had to use for the pedestal bathroom sink that is too close to the wall for a p-trap.The only plastic bottle trap I could find was from England for $15 inc shipping. Metal bottle traps aren't permitted by code as the internal down pipe may rust out and permit gases to come out of the sink. That's why I went with plastic and hope they're permissible.

[@gregvancom]

Hopefully everything works out and you never have any problems.

[@Bobherry]

There's also a special one called a loop where it's a big square and it uses the air in it

[@capq57]

The house I grew up in was built before indoor plumbing was common in the area, with pipes added much later, I think in the 1940's. The kitchen sink was unvented and was on the opposite side from the soil pipe, so the drain made a horizontal run the entire width of the house. Any time a lot of water went down (like dumping the dishpan) it was always followed by a minute or so of gluckita-gluckita noise from the trap. No sewer gas, but it was always a noisy sink. Seeing this made me remember that

[@eman3208]

Thank you

[@PugMama64]

I have a question for anyone who can help. I have a 1991 manufactured home and I need to replace the under the sink vent but I can't remove it. It's stuck or someone glued it. It's supposed to screw off. Any ideas on how to get it off so I can replace it??

[@Deltro61]

I have a number of sinks in my house that use air admittance valves. They work great, but they do tend to fail somewhere between 8 and 10 years down the line, but are pretty easy to replace. They are real lifesaver one it's impractical to vent to the outside. Really, this plumbing situation is not that big of a deal to fix.

[@TRUE_GR1T]

+Troy D only place you should be using air admittance valves (cheater vents) is on island sinks.

[@Deltro61]

I think a better response may be to check your local building codes to see where they are permitted. I see these a lot on laundry centers for example--nothing wrong with them if they are allowed, other than they don't last forever. Sometimes it's far better to use one of these then to try to route additional vents through your roof, which has its own set of problems, particularly in northern climates. In situations where you have say a cathedral roof, the moisture that escapes into the roof cavity can cause far more problems than using an air admittance valve, not to mention the huge expense and time when a $20 valve will do the trick. I would say where I see more problems is when people do not extend their vent high enough above the roof line, and they get covered in snow. Second, the size of the vent is too small for the volume of water going through the system, and the moisture escaping freezes and seals the opening (real common in multiplex rental units). The main vent in the house should be equal to or larger than the main drain--typically three or 4 inches.

[@tech99070]

For who? If you're the original plumber, there are several different options for island sinks. I've seen 3" pipe ran from the nearest vent to allow the sink to vent itself, I've also seen 2 pipes ran parallel with a bow vent for dry venting. If you're not the original plumber, then an improperly vented island sink is just one of many situations where it is not going to be expedient to find a way through the roof, which mechanical vents are great for.

[@eikna]

i have a question. Where does the bottom end of the drain pipe go? I have an issue with our air vent pipe in my condo. we live on the main floor of the 4 stories condo. We are sharing one air vent pipe. out pipe connecting to air vent burst due to the clog on one of the units upstairs. I guess once the drain clogs they go to the vent pipe and goes down to our and sometimes goes out in our sink. What would be the remedy for this

[@gregvancom]

This video might help kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIbblYqcjK59hcU If you live in a condominium, then you might want to contact the property managers, but you can always contact the plumber or try to unclog the drain line yourself with a plumbing snake. This can usually be rented at your local rental yards.

[@melbias5046]

so the smell rises that why vents are installed in the roof and not under a bathroom sink correct? so the acids from the crap rises and through the roof vent it rises to the atmosphere. correct?

[@gregvancom]

Yes.

[@ImYourHucklebery117]

Also first elbow receiving the water should be long sweep and a clean out would be handy

[@retired4337]

I have a roof vent. After a renovation of the bathroom a plumber told me that an air admittance valve should be installed. Can I install an air admittance valve and keep the roof vent without any complications?

[@erichood3169]

Aristotle Matsis course

[@denasewell]

what about the magic vent piece ....air admittance vent ?

[@stardate412]

Lol I love the methane suggestion

[@colstace2560]

how about putting the p trap in the drain pipe just before it goes through the floor? that would stop smells and still allow the line to vent...

[@gregvancom]

That would be better than the set up in the video.

[@BiggieSmalls946]

I have a utility sink in the basement and I gotta replace the p trap. The vent/air pipe connected to the p trap is right next to sink and it's wide open. Should I close it off with a vent cap or leave it wide open

[@gregvancom]

See if a air admittance valve will work and if not, you might be better off capping it to prevent sewage from entering your home through the open vent.

[@BiggieSmalls946]

@@gregvancom then how will I get the air pressure I want?

[@brownthomasw]

i checked, I don't have a vent and don't recall ever having one. In the unlikely event it gets sucked out put more water in it, you don't notice but i figure you use the sink often enough hopefully. Guest bathrooms and side bathrooms can dry up. I knew the U was to keep the gas out and was wonder ing why you had a pipe other side of the U anyway forget that noise.

[@cactusduo1]

It is so ironic that I stumbled upon your video. This looks like my kitchen sink plumbing in the house we just moved into. The pipe opening is stuffed with a wad of paper towel. Better yet, down in the garage, directly below the kitchen sink is another "vent" pipe seemingly coming from the sink, and it is simply venting into the ceiling insulation! Any suggestions besides calling a plumber for a very expensive overhaul?

[@jme43jh]

Thanks again for your help and I'm ok with that we are not selling we've owned it since 02. Kids are grown and house is paid off. Going to be doing extensive work in the house to make it the way want but on a budget. BTW smell is gone and no more leaks! ...

[@beauar1]

So my kitchen drain pipe broke. Plumber installed new pvc pipe to replace the old cast iron. Ran a new pipe. Capped th old one under the sink which ran into the wall. Then in my basement above the main stack he cut the old pipe out for the new pvc. I started getting water in that area and was puzzled till I realized the roof vent was uncovered and any rain we had was running down the pipe collecting inside. I scratched my head for weeks wondering how it was possible that water was coming down and unused drain pipe...lol. I put a mushroom cap on the roof to prevent water from coming into the pipe. To my question.....he didnt vent my kitchen pipe. Its only my sink and dishwasher but do you think its an issue considering I also have a garbage disposal. I assume all drains should vent but it appears mine is a closed system now witb zero vent. I suppose its not an issue if there isn't gurgling or slow draining right? I also assume this can be a bigger issue if you have toilets that need to vent.

[@gregvancom]

I really can't answer your question, because it could be confusing to others, but I understand that if you don't have the money to spend on this particular project, then leave it alone and hope for the best. If you start to see mold or smell those horrible sewer gases, then it that might be your first clue to start thinking about making these repairs.

[@dennisalexander1718]

I put on an AAV and redid all the fittings under the sink and a new faucet because a plumber told me to use an AAV to help with a backing up in my kitchen sink on both sides. Turn on the garbage disposal sucks water down but shoots up on other side also washing machine drain pipe overflowed something horrible. Needless to say the AAV he told me to install did nothing for my situation and I have no idea what’s happening

[@gregvancom]

I don't know if I can help, but feel free to send me a picture of the sink and all of the plumbing under the cabinet and I'll see if I have any ideas. You can get our email address of the website.

[@treasuresnownthen]

One of those caps was recently installed under my sink. Its LOUSY. I paid a plumber $200 for one hours work to replumb my kitchen sink which before had no trap at all. Now every time I want to do dishes and let the water out, it bubbles and backs up slightly on the other side.

[@gregvancom]

Bummmmmmer!

[@mariahporras3526]

I have this issue under kitchen sink ! What do I do?

[@bgregg55]

i like the idea of using AA valves though i honestly have never installed one. i now wish i had used them on my own home when i reroofed last fall. i really hate roof penetrations & here on the central oregon coast the fewer penetrations the better.

[@gregvancom]

+bgregg55 You bring up an excellent point about roof penetration and vent pipes, I'm just not 100% sold on air admittance valves, because of the maintenance problems they'll create for unsuspecting property owners.

[@erichood3169]

gregvancom dude they work they just expire and in this case it's a easy swap out admit your insane to cap this and call it a day

[@mariahporras3526]

I have a kitchen sink like this how do I fix this problem properly. Not capping off? But actually fixing the issue.

[@gregvancom]

It will need to go all the way to the outside like pipes going through walls and roof in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIbblYqcjK59hcU

[@MrOmaralamri]

What if i can't move the vent out, and i have lots of drain water that will be stuck and reverse ? I'm really confused , i need a solution please Thank you

[@gregvancom]

+OMAR I would contact the plumber in your area, because it sounds like your drain is clogged, too small or installed incorrectly.

[@LostBeetle]

Thanks man, I just blocked the vent with a latex glove and rubber band, that should work temporarily, or even permanently when you think about it. Lets see if this works, hopefully the water won't get sucked out of the U-trap.

[@gregvancom]

That's a good idea, but it would be better to install a cap that can be glued on if dealing with plastic or a rubber fitting with a hose clamp, just in case the water ever backs up. If the sewage pipe ever got clogged, the water could back up and break your light-duty latex glove.

[@LostBeetle]

gregvancom Never would have thought about that, thanks.

[@gregvancom]

You bet.

[@CollinDUBS]

Dude they have these things out there called "cheat vents", basically it's a one-way air admittance valve that you would attach to a vent pipe in this EXACT situation. It lets air vent the drain, and closes. Capping it in any way is a sure way to suck your trap seal dry.

[@gregvancom]

Remember, air admittance valves aren't always approved by local building authorities, but might provide you with an alternative to capping the pipe.

[@mariahporras3526]

I have this issue under kitchen sink! What to do?

[@kennethnicklowicz1030]

throw an air admittance valve (like studor) will work which is what I think they intended to install but didnt

[@gregvancom]

That is always a possibility.

[@gregvancom]

Now that's a good idea.

[@hybridEP3]

Lol how's about the fact the vent is located below flood level? If this sucker backs up well...

[@jamesgrabow9080]

hybridEP3 d

[@melbias5046]

is that vent like a straw if you put your finger on the top of a straw you can hold water once you release it the water drop because of gravity which means ithe vent pushes the water down . just asking trying to learn and anyone that answer i learn something or the proper function.

[@gregvancom]

Great observation and yes.

[@papoochee2431]

For some reason I have water coming out of my vent. It looks similar to the one in this video. Is there anything I can do?

[@gregvancom]

Yes, you can cap it off with a rubber cap that can be purchased at your local home improvement center or install an air admittance valve. Keep in mind that the open vent should be venting out to the exterior of the home and not under your sink.

[@gregvancom]

I thought of another problem it could be. If it wasn't happening before, then maybe there is something blocking the drain, restricting the water flow and causing it to backup and of course come out of the vent. You might need to run a plumbing snake down the drain pipe.

[@jme43jh]

We took a bathroom out of our mobile home. Trying to enlarge the overall space. We checked to make sure that master bath had all necessary drains and pipes and closed off the ones to the second bathroom. Now I'm starting to get worried that we've done something wrong because I smell something like not sewer but gassy. Hubby cannot smell it. It doesn't smell like human gas either. Please help. Could it be a dead animal? Or did we cut and cap wrong pipes.

[@gregvancom]

Jamie Huffaker It could be a dead animal, but I would go under the mobile home to see if the pipes are leaking. Simply have someone go under the mobile home and look for wet spots in the ground and you could always flush a couple of toilets while someone is under the home to get some water running through the pipes, while checking for leaks.

[@jme43jh]

Thank you! I will. Do you think it was ok to take out that unused bathroom? I may be worried for nothing. Thank you again

[@gregvancom]

Absolutely not, but the value of your home could have been decreased by removing the bathroom.

[@stevenking2980]

It never would smell like human gas. Just make sure you have no open pipes anywhere in the house.

[@gregvancom]

+Steven King What other type of comment what I expect from the scariest writer ever. Well okay you might not be the famous writer, but we can pretend.

[@lilnik420]

Or you can just glue a studer vent on and call it a day lol ( check local plumbing codes)

[@perrylisaleonard431]

Oh, hell no, tear it all out and start over. Hahahaha

[@diademglow3429]

I am a little confused and a pretty angry. I have a bathrrom, that has terrible sewer gas smells from the drain in the sink, but under the sink it doesnt smell at all. I know their is a city sewer cap in the back yard from the city. I have a real problem I guess getting competent plumbers so I am doing it as much as I can myself. All they tell is check the tap, check the tap,( I have 3 guys too challenged to figure it out) well that doesnt help, the tap has water in it, but the overflow opening will not take any water if I plug the drain and fill the sink. How can I get rid of this stink. And fyi, just based on personal use, I do not think it is coming from our place, this is a condo. This bathroom can be used for a long time and still reeks.Any help would be very appreciated as we want to sell and I dont want to be hiding this stink ( which I can do by closing the drain). Thanks!!

[@dzappss1]

Trap, not tap...

[@gregvancom]

The only thing I could possibly think of, would be that somehow the trap under the sink isn't working correctly. It wouldn't be a bad idea to take the drain apart and clean everything also. Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but cleaning everything might be a good place to start.

[@gregvancom]

I would love to know, just like everybody else, what the problem actually was, when finally resolved.

[@kbustaar]

Why not say replace it if it is no longer functioning correctly? That seems like a much better thing than capping it off. I'm remodeling my bathroom and discovered I have one..I have 1990 manufactured home and it's been working perfectly

[@gregvancom]

As long as it's approved by your local building part, it should work.

[@keithtomczyk4730]

Depending f the sink is self venting you can cap it. You should put a studervent in place of a cap.

[@torymountain]

What happened to the comment about the whole belief in venting Greg?

[@TheJSmithBA]

Use AAV if no vent to roof. At least its not an s-trap which is also not code in USA.

[@petercofrancesco9812]

DIY and amateur hacks often improperly install plumbing. Vents are commonly omitted because they're difficult to install into existing homes that's why interior vents are a life saver. While proper venting might not fix a problem its a good as any place to start.

[@85Studios]

I am looking for one of those Valves that has a rubber spring loaded Valve in it. WHat it does is when the vent is under negative pressure it opens up and allows the air to come into the pipe, but once the pressure normalized the vlve closes. Thus not permitting any air to escape. Does anyone know what I am talking about? Anyway. A plumber removed mine from my Kitchen sink saying that it was faulty and not opening, and what this did was it caused the water in the sink trap to be pulled out when we used the bathtub which is connected to the same drain. It is not possible to vent this sink to the atmosphere because of the design. It is an old 1978 Twilight Bungalow 5th Wheel Camper, however it is vented at the sewer tank and at the Bathroom sink to the atmosphere. The bath tub and this kitchen sink are connected via water lines and the drains. When we unplug the bath Tub we get a siphon which pulls the water out of the Trap in the sink because the plumber plugged off this vent. Then we get nasty sewer gas smells in our Camper. I sought to resolve this by using a Vacuum vent so that it could pull air in, but it could not push gas up through the vent pipe. What is this piece called. we had one on it before, but I cannot find one for it now.

[@gregvancom]

I don't know if you're referring to a air admittance valve, but if it's for a camper or trailer, I would contact someone who sells parts for them. It might not be the same part that would be used for a home.

[@85Studios]

THis camper is plumbed like a house. I had it stationary plumbed. "More like a Trailer house" THis valve is an inlet valve. when the vent needs to pull air in, it opens a spring loaded flap, then when the air is not needed it closes via the spring and prevents the gasses from going under the sink.

[@gregvancom]

I would hate to suggest anything, because I'm not familiar with the product you're looking for.

[@markgodfrey7056]

85 Studios , I know them by a brand name called PRO-VENT. But what it's called is an air admittance valve

[@glendabeldin5524]

Scratch that. Had only watched the video, not read previous responses. Your forgiven.

[@gregvancom]

Jim Beldin Don't worry it happens all the time and I went ahead and removed your comment. I honestly cannot tell you how many times I've answered the question, why don't you just put an air admittance vent on it. Again, the answer is because some building departments won't accept it, but it is an alternative.

[@jessicamartinez6286]

my mobile smell like out house. how do make one. I need to see a video please

[@gregvancom]

+Jessica Martinez The first thing you need to do is check the inside of the home for water damage and broken pipes, then someone would need to check below the mobile home and I've heard of dead animals under the home creating horrible smells also.

[@culturalconfederacy782]

Share a vent pipe with another apartment. My bathroom and kitchen sink are connected going into the vent pipe. Constantly getting backup no matter how often the drains are cleaned out. Black sludge or grim comes up with the water. Can get the kitchen sink to drain but not the bathroom. Couid I be getting backup from the vent pipe? I throw everything in the trash. But unfortunately you can't always get every scrap of food or coffee ground out. Sixty year old building.

[@gregvancom]

I don't think it would be the vent pipe, but I'm just speculating. You could contact a plumber or one of your local rental yards to see if they have a video drain scope that can be used to go down the drain pipes and see exactly what the problem is. This is usually an area where the drain pipes are the problem.

[@PlanetMezz]

Instead of capping that .. isn't is -easier- better to add a magic vent to it?

[@gregvancom]

I only suggested the cap to eliminate any older or possible spillage if the pipe backed up. Remember air admittance valves or magic vents might not be allowed by your local building department, however would be a better alternative than leaving it open.

[@juanjc1951]

Hay buddy haven't you heard from the magic vent that you can put underneath the sink.

[@gregvancom]

I know you're going to be surprised, but if you would have read a few comments below you would've found the answer to your question. I honestly wonder how many times I will need to answer this question, but here goes again. Don't forget that some building departments won't allow air admittance valves so check first before using them on new construction, but might provide you with a better alternative to an open vent on existing properties.

[@Maynard123]

I don't know where you live but most states have codes against using vent alternatives such as a "magic vent" unless you live in a mobile home. (Mobile homes are exempt in most states from most codes.)

[@viktorbermeo1809]

can anybody give me some advice???...my kitchen sink and Washer keep backing up...I snaked both pipes including clean out and I also put water with hose down vent pipe on rooftop and all the water came up kitchen sink...can someone help???

[@gregvancom]

If I was you I would contact a local plumber and have them run a video scope down the drains to see what's going on. You don't need to hire them to make the repairs and you might even be able to rent your own video scope at your local rental yard.

[@spelunkerd]

It always amazes me at how people attempt home repair without even understanding the basics of how the systems work. That pipe opening is also a potential source of rats, insects, and any other critters that live in the sewer system.

[@mycaddigo4562]

Hahahah

[@XGempler]

It should not be left open for reasons that you described, but it should not be caped off either. If you cap that off the sink will drain slowly and go gluck gluck gluck... the simple solution, and the obvious oversight of the plumber that installed that it to top it off with an "air admittance valve" as sold by any plumbing supply or even Home Depot and Lowes. Such as the Oatey Shure-Vent for about $20. Of course it would ideally go out through the roof but that is not always a viable option and hence this solution, with the one way sure vent.

[@gregvancom]

X Gempler Sounds good to me.

[@gabrielle3689]

What if there’s water coming out of their instead of going down the pipes??

[@gregvancom]

Then the drain might be plugged and you might need a plumber.

[@houseman1000]

What happens when you are running water in the drin AND IT DOES NOT DEIN FAST WHAT DO YOU DO.

[@gregvancom]

+Jody Wolk This is usually an easy question to answer and I actually had it happen to me yesterday. Whenever water doesn't drain quickly, the reason usually has something to do with a restriction in the sink pop up drain, sink trap or drainpipes. You can take the drain apart and clean it or try to run a small metal snake through it, to remove the obstruction.

[@hingedelephant]

+gregvancom No. The usual reason is that someone capped your drain vent. If you are unable to vent to the roof, you use an air admittance valve. I have to say this video is absolutely the worst plumbing advice I've witnessed in a while. Do not cap the plumbing vent.

[@sushyanlin]

Can the vent and the drain be on same pipe?

[@gregvancom]

Yes and that's common for plumbers.

[@DanBurgaud]

The purpose of P trap is to prevent sewer gas from backing up. 0:30 anyone doing this, might as well NOT HAVE P TRAP on that sink and the sink will do the venting

[@gregvancom]

Good point.

[@hippeebigbuckle]

Taking care of my dad who rents, landlord doesn’t care, no extra money so I have to fix things. I have 2 sinks, the tail pieces come down and over like a squared off U and then go down to the P-Trap forming the Y. Everything is as high up as I can get it but to get to the wall pipe from the P-Trap goes up at an angle 8" long and 2" up. At the wall the pipe goes up like another P-Trap about 2". I don't get how the water is supposed to go up but get the "gas" thing and why from your explanation. Everything is clean I take it all apart regularly 3-4x a year even though we mostly Raw Food. No oil build up a little food mostly dirt or pet fur from washing hands no clogs. I just like to clean them out. Don't think there is a clog past the wall but the fact it is lead makes me not want to investigate too much. My problem is the sink fills up with water and isn't draining it did prior to cleaning. Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Amber

[@gregvancom]

It's really hard to tell what your problem would be, without actually examining the property. You could have a ventilation problem if you're vents are plugged, could also have a drainage problem if there is sediment buildup which would restrict or reduce the amount of drainage and last but not least, you could be dealing with undersized drainage pipes. I think the best advice I can probably give you, would be to keep cleaning the parts, if the landlord is going to hire a plumber.

[@petercofrancesco9812]

If it's not vented it will cause slow drainage. If this is the case you could add a interior pro-vent.

[@gregvancom]

I made a mistake in my last comment and meant to say to keep cleaning the pipes if the landlord ""isn't"" going to hire a plumber. And you could always try installing an air admittance valve, like you suggested, but it sounds like you might have problems with the drainage pipes more than the vent pipes, but I'm only guessing. Let me know how it works out.

[@Bobherry]

Just put a AAV on it

[@mariorancho1454]

Do i need a vent for my toilet and shower if they are both in the basement and they drain straight out to the septic tank?

[@gregvancom]

I can't think of one plumbing fixture that doesn't require a vent, so yes you would need a vent for your toilet and shower drain pipe.

[@TRUE_GR1T]

wet vent them with the sink drain.

[@tech99070]

Wet venting (draining into another fixture's vent) is fine and in some cases encouraged, but I don't know about putting a shower and lav on a toilet's vent. I'm sure it would work but might not be advisable. Feel free to drain the lav into the toilet's 2" vent. (As long as its close enough - Remember the horizontal pipe in the wall counts as trap arm) But I'd connect the shower vent above the lav's flood rim. Especially since it's a basement. This way in the event of a backup there's no risk of solids becoming trapped in the horizontal portion of the shower's vent pipe.

[@TRUE_GR1T]

Andrew Asche the lav is the toilet and showers vent. You use a 2 inch lav drain and have a 2x1 1/2x 1 1/2 tee in the wall. The branch of the tee picks up the lav trap arm,the top of the tee is the vent and ties into the stack or a vent header. The bottom of the tee which is 2 inch is the wet vented portion and ties into a 3x2 wye or 3x2 double y. I have done hundreds of new home undergrounds like this.

[@tech99070]

Very interesting. That would definitely not pass inspection here in Minnesota. Where are you licensed?

[@stevebahr7782]

Yes, air admittance valve or plumb it correctly. Dont cap it..not an option.

[@MrTruthteller123]

actually all you need is a vent cap, they are used for kitchen island sinks for that very purpose, because you obviously cannot have a vent pipe in the middle of your kitchen island going up through the ceiling and out the roof that would be stupid.......now whether it is code to use in this situation who knows, but if you simply cap it, your sink will not drain correctly.

[@gregvancom]

I think I would rather have the vent pipe capped myself, rather than having sewer gas enter the building. Most of the time the water will drain through the trap in the sink anyway.

[@davidelliott6362]

gregvancom a vent cap prevents the gas from entering the building, it only opens when water goes down the drain, you obviously don't have a clue about how they work...research it and you will understand that your assumption of gas being released is obviously wrong.

[@wesleyholbrooks6792]

“Caps” are not allowed/legal under an island either. You have to plumb a vent loop under an island.

[@kennethnicklowicz1030]

they have air admittance valves (expensive) like Studor and they meet code as they allow air vent, but block sewer gas

[@modmutt]

Literally 3 bucks plus another 2 or 3 for the pipe they screw on to... not exactly wallet busting.

[@bobbyreeves4820]

Hey Greg. I have these under my sinks. I live in a 7 yr old double wide mobile home bought brand new in 2008. About a week ago we noticed a foul smell coming out of the floor vent in the master bathroom. Smelled like a dead rodent. Master bath is on the very end of the house. Lasted for a couple days then went away. A day later that same foul smell is now coming out of the floor vent in the OTHER bathroom which is at the complete opposite end of the house. Smell not coming through any other floor vents in the house. I was told it sounded like the sink vents under the sink that this video is talking about and the arrow is pointing at. I was told to buy "Pro Vents" and replace them. Smell has been coming out of the 2nd bathroom now for about 3-4 days. Longer than in the master bathroom. Is that what it sounds like it could be to you? Thanks

[@gregvancom]

SaturdayMorningToysandCollectables If it's something that just started, but you been living in the home for years, then it might be something else. I think I would crawl under the mobile home if you have access to it or get someone else to if you are afraid to see if something actually did die under your home or if there is a problem with the plumbing. If you can visually see something wrong when inspecting the plumbing from inside the mobile home then you can make the necessary repairs, but if everything still looks the same as it has for years then it might be something else under the mobile home.

[@hingedelephant]

First check the air admittance vent that should be at the top of you drain vent pipe. If they are old, they could be gummed up and not work properly allowing sewer gas in. $5 to replace the AAV and you are more than likely done.

[@loydmunger7695]

2:41 Soilet actually makes better sense than toilet.

[@torymountain]

My idea of 'fixing' that vent wud be to drill a hole thru the counter and extend the vent up to chin height. This way one cud appreciate the redolence.

[@scottsimpson7766]

Mostly found in older manufactured homes or mobile homes.

[@gregvancom]

Good point, I've even seen this myself in older mobile homes.