I have read all of the info I could find about washing machine drains and vents. We just bought a home with all new appliances and our washing machine backups every time we use it. The previous owner thinks the plumber suggested a vent to solve to problem. My problem is that we cannot even find the existing vents to attempt to snake or any directions on how to install an additional vent. Is it possible that there are no plumbing vents in our 3 bathroom home? Is there another option, such as a compression valve on our washing machine drain hose, that would possibly prevent water overflow in the drain? We are capable of doing some of the work ourselves, but are not sure where to begin!
Susan

Hi Susan,

How old is your house? Slab home? Basement? Sewer or septic tank? All houses are vented. The washer vent should be poking out of your roof just about over where the washer sets. Sometimes in newer homes the vents are "revented" back in the attic so only one pipe comes out the roof. My home was built 50 years ago so the washer and the kitchen sink drains are combined with one common vent above the sink. I also installed a compression fitting on my 1 1/2" washer stand pipe. What material is yours? Cheers, Tom

Our house was built in 1962. The previous owner came by and pointed out that there are 5 vents on the very uppermost part of the 2nd story roof - not very visible from anywhere, but the top. He explained how the kitchen was completely remodeled before we moved in and the appliances were moved around. I guess the plumber suggested that an additional vent or one more close to the kitchen/laundry area would probably be needed, but they did not do it or understand. So, he is trying to find the plumber to come put in a vent. They mentioned it might be a vent that goes into the garage or attic, not necessarily the roof. Would that be effective - it is just the washing machine with the problem.
Thanks for your replies.
Susan

Hi Susan,
A washer vent ties in to another vent in the attic that exits the roof is called a "revent" If that's the case the washer vent will have to be cut open and snaked from the attic. Afterwards it will have to be coupled back again. I suggest using a NO-Hub Coupling to connect back the vent. That way you won't have to cut the pipe if you ever have to snake it out again. See what a No-Hub Coupling looks like below. Regards, tom