How to Choose the Right Drain Pipe Size for Your Home’s Plumbing System

A Comprehensive Guide to Sizing Drain Pipes for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Main Drain Lines

Why Drain Pipe Size Is So Important

Prevents Clogs

• Proper Drain pipe sizing ensures that water and waste flow freely, reducing the risk of  future blockages.

Maintains Proper Drainage Speed

• Correctly sized pipes with proper slope help prevent water backups.

To Avoids Backups

• A properly sized main drain pipe ensures that water won’t back up into your sinks, tubs, or other fixtures.

Meets Plumbing Standards

• Proper sizing ensures your plumbing system meets local building codes and passes inspections.

Maximizes Plumbing Lifespan

• Correct pipe sizes reduce stress on the plumbing system, preventing unnecessary wear and tear.

Minimizes Maintenance Costs

• Well-sized pipes reduce the frequency of repairs and maintenance, saving you money.

What Should Be The Size of The Main Drain Pipe?

The main drain line carries wastewater from all the fixtures in your home to the septic system or city sewer. It is crucial that this pipe is large enough to handle the combined flow of water from  all sinks, toilets, and other household fixtures.

Standard Main Drain Pipe Size

• 4 inches in diameter: Most homes are equipped with this size for their main drain line to ensure smooth water and waste flow.
• Larger Homes: If you live in a larger home with multiple bathrooms, a bigger pipe may be necessary.

Everything About The Kitchen Drain Pipe Size

Importance of Kitchen Drain Size

The kitchen sink is one of the busiest areas of a home which handle everything from liquid dish soap to food grease. As a result, the kitchen drain pipe must be appropriately sized to handle a significant volume of water and waste flow.

The majority of households in Toronto experience clogged drains, with the kitchen sink drain being the most common culprit. We have found that the primary cause for this recurring issue is the installation of improperly sized pipes by handymen.

Standard Kitchen Drain Pipe Sizes

• 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter: Older homes often use 1.5-inch pipes, while newer homes tend to use 2-inch pipes. This size is sufficient for daily kitchen activities.
• Garbage Disposal Considerations: If you install a garbage disposal, it is recommended to go with larger pipes (2 inches) to avoid clogs.

Everything You Should Know About Bathtub Drain Pipe Size

Importance of Bathtub Drain Size

When installing or replacing a bathtub, selecting the correct drain pipe size is just as important as selecting the right bathtub itself.

Standard Bathtub Drain Pipe Sizes

• 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter: Most older homes use a 1.5-inch pipe, while modern homes commonly use 2-inch pipes.
• Efficiency of Larger Pipes: A 2-inch pipe is more effective at managing the volume of water that drains from the bathtub, helping to avoid clogs or slow drainage.

Drain Sizing Based on the Plumbing Code of Canada 2020

Source: National Plumbing Code Book of Canada 2020

Ensure A Well-Functioning Plumbing System with Proper Drainage Pipe Sizing

Good drainage pipe sizing will ensure that your home maintains a well-functioning plumbing system. From kitchen sinks to the main drain line, each should be correctly sized so that no clog develops to restrict water flow. If you’re unsure about your plumbing, it’s always a good idea to consult with a Toronto Plumber to get expert advice.

At Everest Drain & plumbing, we shall always be on call for whatever you need regarding your plumbing needs. Our team of experienced plumbers can ensure your pipes are properly sized and installed, so you won’t face any plumbing issues down the road. Contact us today for professional plumbing services in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Additional Reading : How to choose right toilet for you need!