Fundamentals of Sanitary Drainage and Vent System
- John Cedierick Abarca
- Nov 10, 2020
- 2 min read
After several weeks of discussion about water line systems, the class has moved on to the plumbing system of wastewater. It is important to remember that the waterline distribution system lets water into the residence plumbing system while the sanitary plumbing system for wastewater disposes the used water within the residence back to the sewage system.

The fundamentals of sanitary drainage and vent system include waste piping, vent piping, traps, gravity and clean out principles that should be considered important. These components play an important role to make the whole system work efficiently. This is where these components work together to make sure that the system is sanitary and that the air inside the pipe does not reach its limit. Imagine flushing the toilet the water will travel through the piping system and if the pipe for the wastewater and the pipe for the venting air is not effectively installed the water could flow back to the water closet and the bad smell of the wastewater could leak and infiltrate the atmosphere of the house. A good piping system will allow the air trapped inside the pipes to vent outside the system and will not be affected and compromised. Without proper venting pipes, the fumes may build up and may cause leakage of bad odor. Also, venting is very important because it helps the flow of the water in the pipes go fluidly. It also prevents gurgling which is when it makes a gurgling noise as it forces air through the water in the drain traps. Sanitary systems require a technology that will help trap air to prevent it from leaking immediately. This technology can be observed in different plumbing fixtures such as a lavatory and water closet. A p trap is a good example of traps and siphons that helps to ensure that the air does not leak out of the piping system in an unplanned manner. With the help of gravity, the wastewater can be disposed of out of the system. Gravity and sloping pipes help the water flow of the wastewater in drainage systems. Sanitary plumbing systems are very important because it is a preventive measure in acquiring diseases. Having an efficiently working plumbing system not only that it would make the lifestyle of the occupants better and convenient but also prevent viruses and bacteria to spread in the residence.
It is of great importance that architects understand the system because not only does it affect the structural component of the building but as well as the health of the occupants. And we do not build buildings for the buildings but instead for the users. Overall, I have learned a lot about sanitary drainage and vent system. It made me realize that the plumbing system is as important as the foundations of a building for it protects the occupants from the dangers of diseases.


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