For a kitchen drain, is a vent pipe necessary?

Answer by  vdsem (17)

You need to have a vent pipe by California code because otherwise you will get nasty smell coming out of your kitchen drain, and your plumbing will make noise when you use the sink also you will have slow drain flow.

Answer by  missyl79 (87)

Yes, the pipe equalizes pressure. Without the pipe, a vacuum is created behind the water and the system tries to find a way to replace the air by removing the water from the fixture trap. The water in the trap acts as a seal preventing odors and pests from entering.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

You need a vent pipe for any drain you are putting in your house. This includes the toilet also. If this is new construction then the contractor knows this needs to be done. If this is a older house they the vent is already in. I'm assuming that you are replacing the drain.