What is the maximum distance a water closet can be from a vent?

The maximum distance a water closet can be from a vent is established to ensure proper drainage and ventilation within the plumbing system. When a fixture such as a water closet is installed, it requires an adequate venting system to prevent the buildup of negative pressure in the drainage pipes, which could lead to siphoning of water from traps and subsequently allow sewer gases to enter the building.

According to plumbing codes, a water closet must typically be within a certain distance from a vent to maintain these standards. Distances greater than the accepted maximum can lead to issues such as poor drainage performance or increased odors from sewer gases. The correct choice, which indicates that a water closet can be placed as far as 6 feet from the vent, reflects the guidelines set by plumbing codes to ensure that fixtures remain effectively vented while still functioning correctly. This distance strikes a balance between practical installation needs and ensuring the health and safety of the plumbing system.