Vent Stack
A vertical pipe that vents sewer gases to the roof and equalizes drain pressure.
Definition
A vent stack is a vertical pipe that extends through the roof to vent sewer gases outside and allow air into the drain system so traps don't get siphoned dry.
In plain English
Without proper venting, drains gurgle, traps lose their seal, and water drains slowly. Common defect in DIY plumbing.
Example
A new powder-room sink drains slowly and gurgles — diagnosis is a missing or undersized vent connection.
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