Plumbing Vent Through Exterior Wall

Can a plumbing vent through the exterior wall? The answer is: Plumbing vents must be above roof line. But, Yes, you can put the vent pipe through the wall instead of the roof but you need to extend it around and above the eaves.

No problem at all if you follow the listed criteria:

As per code:

Min 6″ above roof (&12 in. to vertical surfaces in UPC)
Min 7ft. if adjacent walking area (within 10 ft. UPC)
Min 4 ft. (10 ft. UPC) when directly below building openings, & min 3 ft. above openings within 10 ft. horizontal
Min 6 in. above snowline (10 in. above roof as per AHJ UPC)

In summary, it is possible to install a vent pipe on the exterior of a building as long as it meets certain guidelines. The pipe must be at least four feet below a door or window, or three feet above a door or window, and must be located at least ten feet horizontally away from the door or window.

You can see the plumbing code for details.

International Plumbing Code 2012

Chapter 9 Vents

Section 903 Vent Terminals

903.5 Location of vent terminal.
An open vent terminal from a drainage system shall not be located directly beneath any door, openable window, or other air intake opening of the building or of an adjacent building, and any such vent terminal shall not be within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of such an opening unless it is 3 feet (914 mm) or more above the top of such opening.

903.6 Extension through the wall.
Vent terminals extending through the wall shall terminate at a point not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from a lot line and not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above average ground level. Vent terminals shall not terminate under the overhang of a structure with soffit vents. Side wall vent terminals shall be protected to prevent birds or rodents from entering or blocking the vent opening.

International Plumbing Code 2012

see the plumbing vent diagram

Types Of Plumbing Vents

There are several types of plumbing vents commonly used in residential and commercial buildings. Some of the most common types include:

Stack vents

These vents are located at the highest point of the plumbing system and are typically installed through the roof. They allow air to enter the system and help prevent the formation of negative pressures that can cause slow drains or backups.

Individual vents

These vents are installed on individual fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and showers. They allow air to enter the system and prevent the formation of negative pressures.

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Air admittance valves (AAVs)

These are mechanical devices that allow air to enter the plumbing system when a fixture is in use, but close automatically to prevent sewer gas from escaping. They can be used as an alternative to traditional vents in some situations.

Dry vents

These vents are located on the exterior of a building and are designed to allow air to enter the system and prevent the formation of negative pressures. They can be used as an alternative to traditional vents in some situations.

Combination vents

These vents combine the functions of a stack vent and an individual vent and are typically used in systems with multiple fixtures.

It is important to note that the choice of venting system will depend on local building codes and regulations, as well as the specific requirements of the building and plumbing system.

Proper maintenance and troubleshooting of plumbing vents are important to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the plumbing system. Here are some tips for maintaining and troubleshooting plumbing vents:

Maintenance And Troubleshooting

Regular Inspection

It is important to regularly inspect the vents for any signs of damage or blockages. Look for things like rust, cracks, or debris that may have accumulated in the vent pipe.

Cleaning

Clean the vents and vent pipes as necessary to remove debris and prevent blockages. This can be done using a pipe snake or a brush specifically designed for cleaning vent pipes.

Snow and Ice

In cold climates, vents may become blocked by snow and ice. It is important to ensure that vents are properly insulated and to remove snow and ice from the vents as necessary.

Check for Leaks

Inspect the vents for any signs of leaks. Leaks can cause water damage and create an opening for sewer gas to escape into the building. If you suspect a leak, it should be repaired as soon as possible.

Check for proper function of mechanical vents

Air admittance valves (AAVs) are mechanical devices that allow air to enter the plumbing system when a fixture is in use, but close automatically to prevent sewer gas from escaping. It’s important to check if the valve is working properly, if not, it should be replaced.

Check for proper slope

The vent pipes should be sloped at the correct angle to ensure proper drainage. If the pipes are not sloped correctly, it can cause problems such as slow drains or backups.

If you are experiencing problems with your plumbing vents, it is important to address them as soon as possible to prevent more serious issues from arising.

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FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, plumbing vents play a critical role in maintaining the air pressure balance and preventing sewer gas from entering homes and buildings. Venting through the exterior wall is a common method for venting plumbing systems, as it allows for the proper flow of air and provides a simple and cost-effective solution for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

However, it’s important to ensure that plumbing vents are installed and maintained properly to avoid blockages, leaks, and other potential issues. Homeowners and contractors should familiarize themselves with local codes and regulations and regularly inspect and maintain the vents to ensure their optimal performance. In the end, a well-functioning plumbing vent system is essential for maintaining a safe, healthy, and functional indoor environment.

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