If the clog is low in the stack (e.g., rust scale) or you can't access the roof safely:
Before you reach for the chemical drain cleaner, check for these specific symptoms that point directly to a venting issue rather than a standard pipe clog: plumbing vent pipe clogged
If water doesn't work, feed a plumber's snake (an auger) down the vent pipe. Feed it until you feel resistance, then crank the handle to break through the blockage or hook it so you can pull it out. If the clog is low in the stack (e
Roof work is dangerous. If you are uncomfortable with heights, have a steep roof, or suspect a deep clog, call a professional plumber. If you are uncomfortable with heights, have a
When we think of plumbing clogs, we usually imagine a blockage deep within a drainpipe—something stopping the water from going down. However, one of the most confusing and destructive plumbing issues actually stems from the pipes that let air in .
On a dry, non-windy day, safely access your roof. Locate the vent pipe(s). Look inside (use a flashlight, not your face). Can you see daylight? Do you see a nest, leaves, or ice? A visual confirmation is the gold standard.