What is an individual vent in plumbing?

An individual vent in plumbing refers to a pipe that connects with the vent system above a fixture. This type of vent is essential for allowing air to enter the plumbing system, which helps to maintain proper pressure within the drainage system. By ensuring that waste and water can flow freely without creating a vacuum or negative pressure, individual vents prevent the siphoning of water from traps and help to keep sewer gases contained within the plumbing system.

The function of an individual vent is crucial in any plumbing installation, particularly in residential setups. Without it, fixtures would struggle to drain properly and might also allow unpleasant odors to escape into living spaces due to improperly vented traps. Hence, the role of individual vents is foundational to the overall efficiency and safety of plumbing systems.