All,

My wife and I built our house 3 years ago in a high wind area (30-60 mph) and have had the wind suck our p-traps dry with every wind storm (Usually over 40 mph wind). I have done some research and found out that the vent pipes on the roof could be the culprit. I was wondering if there are check valves or similar on the market for purchase? And if in fact the ventpipes are supposed to only let air in, not out? What can I do to keep from having to refill the fixtures almost weekly?

Any help would be great

All,

my wife and I built our house 3 years ago in a high wind area (30-60 mph) and have had the wind suck our p-traps dry with every wind storm (Usually over 40 mph wind). I have done some research and found out that the vent pipes on the roof could be the culprit. I was wondering if there are check valves or similar on the market for purchase? And if in fact the ventpipes are supposed to only let air in, not out? What can I do to keep from having to refill the fixtures almost weekly?

Any help would be great
I'm going to put up two images. One is a vent cap,(That's the mushroom looking thingy) and the other is a vent filter. The vent cap should break the airflow over the vent and decrease the suction. I have never used the vent filter but it would work in your situation. Your thoughts? Regards, Tom

Speedball1,

I think a vent cap would be the way to go. Do you know where I could find one, maybe at LOWE's or such stores? Are they proven to work? Last year I installed those slotted type (designed to keep leaves out) but no help on high wind days. I need to keep the wind from vacuuming the lines, I think the vent cap looks like it may work.

Thanks for your answer

Just click on; Plumbing Vents (http://www.tjtrailers.com/store/plumbing-vents.html) to see a assortment of vent caps. I believe Ace Hardware stocks them but try the big box stroes also. Good luck, Tom

This helps a lot, thanks Tom.

Cut the top of you vent at a 45 degree angle. Put the high side opposite the prevailing wind.