What does an individual vent do?

An individual vent is specifically designed to serve a single plumbing fixture. It allows gases from the fixture to be vented outside, ensuring that the fixture operates properly by preventing the buildup of harmful sewer gases in the home and maintaining an adequate air pressure within the drainage system. The individual vent provides a direct path for air to enter the drainage system, promoting efficient drainage and preventing siphonage or back pressure that could lead to clogged drains or trap seal loss.

While there are other types of vents in plumbing systems designed for multiple fixtures, such as common vents that serve two fixtures or principal stacks that accommodate a larger number of connected fixtures, the individual vent focuses solely on the needs of one particular fixture. This design serves to optimize the performance of that fixture and maintain the overall health of the plumbing system.