Plumbing Vents with Solar Panels: Purpose and Rules

Exiting plumbing vents can pose challenges during solar panel installation, particularly when they are not in an ideal position for the panels. Many of us are unsure if it is feasible to position the plumbing vent beneath the solar panel, or not? In this blog, we will learn about plumbing vents with solar panels, their purpose, and the relevant rules around them.

Purpose of Plumbing Vents with Solar Panels

The primary purpose of plumbing vents is to balance the pressure in the plumbing system, which typically operates at low pressures. The vent system aims to restore the pressure as close to atmospheric levels as possible by allowing pressure release into the atmosphere.

It is a vital component of any home’s plumbing system. It’s essentially a pipe that extends through the roof and connects to a plumbing fixture outside the house. Also known as vent stacks, they balance the air pressure in your home’s plumbing system.

They work similar to drainpipes, but instead of removing waste and water, plumbing vents remove gas and odor from your home. Additionally, they allow fresh air to enter the system, which enhances pipe drainage and water flow.

Plumbing Venting Rules for Installation

They are typically installed in accordance with the local building code regulations. Depending on local conditions, codes may vary from region to region. Plumbing vents can be installed over the solar panels or have the vent extended under and around them. They typically do not present any installation issues for solar panels.

The installation setup regulations require an appropriate plumbing vent pipe size and termination with a cover that allows airflow while preventing nesting by birds and other animals. Solar racking can be easily adjusted to fit into small spaces, allowing for versatile placement of the entire solar panel system on various areas of the roof to work in harmony with existing vents.

Also See: Can Portable Solar Panels Get Wet and Still Work?

Height Required for Solar Panels Over Roof Vents Installation

The recommended height for plumbing vents extending above the roof surface typically ranges between 6 to 12 inches. They adhere to specific building codes that vary across different regions, contingent upon local conditions.

These specified heights serve to safeguard the vent opening. In areas with frequent winter snowfall, the mandated height is increased to ensure the vent pipe remains above accumulated snow on the roof. Conversely, regions with less snowfall necessitate a minimum height of 6 inches for vent pipes.

Is Relocating Roof Vents for Solar Panels Necessary?

No, relocating roof vents may not be necessary. If the roof vents do not obstruct the installation of solar panels, there might be no need to relocate them. Instead, creating gaps in the panel arrays can be a solution to accommodate existing roof penetrations.

In case, if roof vents block solar panel placement, moving them can make installation easier. This will further reduce shading, improving panel productivity.

Cross-Reference: International Residential Code (IRC)-Chapter 9 Vents

Can A Solar Panel Cover a Plumbing Vent?

Yes, plumbing vents can be easily covered by a solar panel, which is typically installed 5 inches above the roof. By cutting vent pipes down to 2 inches, the solar panel effectively protects the vent opening from snow and debris, while still allowing for sufficient airflow with a 3-inch gap.

Also Read: Can You Use a Solar Panel with an Outlet?

Can A Solar Panel Block a Plumbing Vent?

No, if a plumbing vent of appropriate size is correctly positioned, a solar panel will not obstruct it. If the vent is lowered to 2 inches above the roof and the panel is installed 5 inches above the roof, there is enough airflow to make the vent work and balance the pressure in the system. This also ensures that the vent remains free from any obstructions caused by debris that may accumulate on the roof.

Can A Plumbing Vent Under a Solar Panel Damage the Panel?

No, solar panels will not be damaged by plumbing vents under them. Low pressure in plumbing waste systems eliminates the risk of high-pressure air leading to no air movement in the vent pipe.

Similarly, no fluids or acidic gases pass through the vent pipe that could cause damage to the solar panel or their wiring. Thus, there is no risk of any damage in installing plumbing vents with solar panels.

Also See: Can Solar Panels Work Through Glass?

How Many Vent Pipes Should a House Have?

At least 1 vent pipe that extends to the outdoors, and extends to the open air, ensuring the expulsion of sewer gases outside, as per the International Residential Code (IRC) for every building drainage system.

Several factors can greatly affect the number of vent pipes required for a house, such as the size of the home, the intricacies of plumbing venting regulations, and local building codes.

To make sure you follow the building codes and plumbing system requirements, especially for special configurations or unique conditions, it’s best to consult a local plumbing professional.

What If the Code Does Not Allow Plumbing Vent Installation Under Solar Panels?

In certain locations, it is not permitted to shorten a vent pipe to install a solar panel over it. In such situations, the below-mentioned 2 options are available:

1. Either leave a gap in the solar panels to accommodate the vent.
2. Utilize a solar roof jack.

A solar roof jack is another option that is permitted in certain areas. It is a system designed in America that involves installing a plastic bend over the vent. It is then redirected through an ABS pipe to a location on the roof, away from the panels.

The vent pipe can be concealed beneath the solar panels, thereby providing extensive roof coverage while adhering to the building code regulations in your region. By doing so, you can maximize the solar panel installation without compromising the integrity of the vent pipe.

Recommended: How Many Solar Panels for a House in Canada are Required?