Removing Ice From the Inside of a Sewer Vent

Roof

• Removing ice from the inside of a sewer vent on a roof can be a dangerous job. An individual will need to not only climb a ladder to the roof, but also climb a second ladder placed on the roof itself in order to reach the sewer vents. Then it is a balancing act to remain on the ladder and at the same time pour hot water down the vent. The amount of water needed will vary depending on the number of vents blocked and how much ice has accumulated.

Remove Cap

• Roof vent caps can also ice up during the winter causing blockage inside sewer vents. These caps are placed on vents to keep out debris such as leaves. In the winter, the caps also can cause ice accumulation in the vents. The water vapor rises from the plumbing system, condenses and freezes on the cap. The plumbing vent then clogs with ice. The easy solution is to remove the cap. It is not necessary during the winter months when the amount of debris is less due to the cold weather.

Professional

• In extreme cases, individuals may need to hire professional help to remove the ice blockage from the inside of a sewer vent. Certain companies will clean and remove the blockage for a fee. Local public health departments also can inspect the house to determine the location and cause of the problem if it is something more severe and continues over time. If the sewer gas has already accumulated in the house, then the local fire department should be notified immediately so that something in the house does not ignite a fire.

Prevention

• A few methods exist to help prevent ice from accumulating in a sewer vent. Wrapping foil-back insulation around the stack that passes through a vented attic space can help to avoid ice build up in a vent. Another idea is to wrap thermostatically controlled heat tape around the vent, if it is possible to access the pipe. Newer homes tend to have less problems with ice build up because the vents have been designed to conduct heat better. Remodeled houses can also avoid ice build up by putting in strong insulation.