[Nwl_one]

Hi, first time poster here.

I have a basement toilet that is within 4ft and connected to the main stack. It does not have an additional vent. It was this way when I purchased the house and seems to work fine for the few times we have used it. We are in the process of completing this basement bathroom but I really don't want to bust up the concrete floor. Could someone please explain "Critical distance" and if it applies for my situation as well as the ramifications if I left the toilet connection as is?

Thanks

 

[Bob Mariani]

you will be fine. The size of the toilet line allows (in many locals) the venting to be a wet vent.

 

[Nwl_one]

Thanks.

So what is critical distance? When and where does it come into play?

 

[Mike Swearingen]

A toilet has a built-in trap and has to be within a "critical distance" from the stack based on the size of the closet bend line. Local code from your Building Inspection Department can tell you what it is in your jurisdiction.
The 4' should be fine everywhere I would think.
Mike

 

[RippySkippy]

Our local code allows toilet for toilets to be vented up to 6' away.