What type of plumbing system relies on gravity to drain waste?

A gravity drainage system is designed to utilize the natural force of gravity to move waste and wastewater away from fixtures and pipes towards the municipal sewer or septic system. This type of system is fundamental in plumbing because it requires no external power source to facilitate drainage, making it both energy-efficient and reliable.

In gravity drainage systems, the pipes are installed at a slight slope to ensure that waste flows downwards through the system without the need for pumps or other mechanical means. Such systems are common in residential and commercial plumbing applications due to their simplicity and effectiveness.

On the contrary, pressurized drainage systems work by using pumps to create pressure that moves waste, which is not dependent on gravity. Vacuum drainage systems also do not rely on gravity; instead, they use negative pressure to transport waste. Submersible drainage systems involve pumps that operate below the surface of the water, also not utilizing a gravitational approach. Hence, gravity drainage remains a widely used and essential plumbing practice.