We know the pain when your room smells and you feel helpless.
Can’t quite pinpoint where the problem lies?
Well, it’s high time you have a look at your admittance valve!
Now, how can you fix your air admittance valve problem?
First you need to pinpoint the causes. Then you can fix the valve accordingly. It can be a faulty valve. Or you might have a little run-in with rodents. Moreover, they might be improperly installed or positioned. So, repairing these might just solve your problem.
Are you curious about the full details? Well, we won’t keep you waiting.
So without further ado, let’s dive in!
Causes And Fixes For Your Air Admittance Valve Problem
Before diving into troubleshooting, we’ve to find the root of the problem. And we’ll then decide what to do about it!
Thus we’ve got a list of problems and solutions just for you. This will definitely get your valve fixed and working in no time!
There Might Be Leaks!
Although valves are known for their durability, sometimes they can’t persevere! Rats and mice can chew on it hence resulting in holes.
When there’s an unwelcome leak, you might notice the valve not working properly. That is, it is not taking in what it should. Sigh, those pesky rats!
But hey, we have just the solution for you!
Solution
Firstly, you need to get your rodent situation under control. As they can be a recurring problem. Therefore, you need to handle this.
If you think you can handle it yourself, then superb! Get yourself a rodent killer of our choice. Otherwise, you can call an exterminator. That’ll solve the problem in no time!
Now, about treating the holes. Sadly, there’s no other way. You’ll have to replace your air admittance valve.
To help you a bit, here are a couple of our most recommended valves. Let’s have a look at it:
| 1-1/2 inch Tuuber Vent Air Admittance Valve | Check Current Price |
| 2-inch Vent Tuuber Air Admittance Valve | Check Current Price |
We can assure you of their quality. Because we ourselves prefer using these.
Before replacing your valve, make sure you have your pest situation in check! Because a leak in your valve is similar to your tile and wall having a gap. Unwanted gaps can become a pain if not taken care of.
Improper Installation Of The Valve
Air admittance valves are constructed to last you about 20 to 30 years. Therefore, if you’re replacing the valves quite often, there’s a deeper problem.
Usually, these happen because of problems with the valve itself. So if you’re experiencing clogging or a bad odor, you’ve got a faulty valve.
This is mostly due to the valve not being installed properly. Which might damage the valve more often.
Solution
If it’s a new installation, and you’re facing the issue. You better act quickly. Go grab your receipt and your valve, and return it as soon as possible.
But first, you have to make sure to check the valve itself. Inspect and see if it’s clogged. This sometimes can be an issue.
To prevent your pipes from getting clogged, remove your admittance valve. This will let the air out so that water can get in. Thus, unclogging your valve.
It’s definitely clogged if you’re having the same ongoing issue. Then return the valve immediately!
Extra Tip
After changing your valve, do the following as an added precautionary measure. Wrap your air admittance valve with a plastic bag. Then tie it with a few strong elastic bands. This will further help the odor from your waste to remain in the pipes.
Incorrect Positioning of Valves At The Wrong Height
This is a problem that we miss sometimes. That is the valves not leveled properly.
The valves should be positioned at a level that is higher than the appliances. About 7 to 8 inches should be okay. Which is above the flood level.
It’s just like how you’d place the showerheads far apart in your shower. This will help with the functionality better!
For example, let’s consider a washbasin here. The valves must be higher than the overflowing point of the basin.
If the level is not right, the valve will not work properly.
Solution
For this, you’ll have to level your appliance above the flood level. Just check the label of your appliance to find the level.
If you can’t find one in the label, here are a few guidelines. For an arm trap, the distance is 4 inches from the center. And a minimum of 6-inches above your highest level appliance is your floor level.
Also, the admittance valve should only be installed in a vertical position. So carefully position the valve and you’ll be all set.
Pro Tip: The valves should only vent appliances that are on the same floor level. This is because the valves depend on this to close.
Therefore, if the valve is positioned correctly, it’ll work smoothly! Otherwise, you’ll have yourself in a bothersome situation like a poorly angled shower arm. And your problems will be never-ending!
Valves Fitted To Wrong Vent Pipes
This can be a major problem if the valves are fitted where they shouldn’t be.
If you have a valve fitted in a vent that isn’t separately vented. And it also has a water trap. This might cause an immense amount of backpressure in the pipework. Especially when your appliance is unloading.
This’ll affect your appliance discharge. Moreover, in the case when a toilet is flushed, it’ll be very noticeable.
Here are a couple of vent pipes for you:
| CANNABMALL 4″10 Feet Dryer Vent | Check Latest Price |
| 4″10 Feet Aluminum Dryer Vent Hose | Check Latest Price |
Solution
Well, the solution is within the problem! You’ll have to question your plumber who did your fitting. And have him fix it. Just place your valve in a vent that is separately vented.
After that, your admittance valve should work normally. Even your flush won’t be noticeable.
The air admittance valves once installed will serve you without any trouble!
Now you know how to fix your admittance valve too. As an added bonus, you have a better idea about the causes too. Therefore, if you see any related problem, you can fix it yourself!
FAQs
Question: Can you vent a toilet with an air admittance valve?
Answer: Yes, for sure! Air admittance valve, also known as a cheater vent is made for this. It is the same as classical venting. The atmospheric pressure goes through the valve just like in a vent.
Question: When can an air admittance valve be used?
Answer: It can be used for pipework that connect to WCs. These are recommended for venting branch pipes. Moreover, they can be used for showers, sinks, basins, and appliances to the soil stack. They can also fit waste pipes.
Question: Do air admittance valves smell?
Answer: Nope. A properly installed valve should not emit any smell. But perform its only task. That is to let air in! If it smells, it’s most likely because the valves are not properly installed.
Bottom Line
With this, we’ll be parting ways. We hope this article solves your air admittance valve problem.
For any other queries, contact a professional.
Have a great day, goodbye!