Hearing a strange gurgling sound from your sink is all too common and all too concerning. You’re probably wondering what you can do about the sound, where else it may be coming from, and what other areas of your home might be affected. Answering these questions and many more can help you identify why your sink is gurgling and what you can do to stop it.
What Does the Gurgling Mean?
It’s good to know precisely what the gurgling of your sink drain means before you begin to address the potential plumbing problem. A gurgling noise occurs because of air interacting with the water in your P-trap or other areas inside your drains. An existing clog can trap air in the pipe, and as your sink drains, the pressure placed on the water by the pockets of air creates the drain gurgling you hear.
Blocked or Clogged Vent Pipe
A significant cause for gurgling in sink drains is a blockage somewhere in your drain vent system. In most homes, the vent system passes sewer gas and other foul air through the piping and out of your home. The vent opening can be clogged by bird nests, leaves, and dirt that trap the air looking to escape.
Vent pipes might be located in difficult-to-reach areas behind walls and cabinetry, so it’s probably a good idea to reach out to a professional plumber to help reach those tricky places.
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Clogged Drain Pipe
Indeed, if you’re asking why your sink is gurgling, it might be good to stop rinsing frying pans in your sink and letting grease build up in your drain pipe. Obstructions develop over time, especially as pieces of food slip into your plumbing system.
You’ll likely begin noticing slowly-draining water and gurgling sounds in your sink drain or even air bubbles accumulating in your dishwasher when you run it. Eventually, you might be faced with a completely backed-up drain, and the gurgling in your sink drain will be the last thing on your mind. Calling a professional plumber is the best way to remedy the problem immediately and prevent further damage to your drain systems.
Sewer Line Problems
Suppose you’re noticing gurgling in your home’s bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, and other drainage systems. In this case, you might have a major blockage or damage to the sewer line — you probably should contact your local plumber to clean your sewer line as soon as possible.
It’s good to note the number of drains and sinks you’re hearing gurgling noises from, as it helps to pinpoint a significant sewage issue under your home as a major cause.
How Can I Fix a Gurgling Sink Drain?
Depending on the issue you have, you can pursue a few options to address gurgling in your sink drain. A clogged vent pipe can be fixed by simply finding the vent pipe access and cleaning away the debris. Usually, the vent pipe is located on the roof, so you might need to climb to the top with the right tools and clear out the drain.
A clogged drain pipe can be remedied in a few ways. Many homeowners prefer to pour drain cleaners down their pipes, and while this might work for some, it can cause damage to older pipes and exacerbate other issues further down the line. The best way would be to purchase a plumbing snake — that is, if you don’t mind getting down and dirty with your drains. Most clogs will require professional intervention.
Make Sink Gurgles a Thing of the Past With Harts Services
Spending sleepless nights wondering why your sink is gurgling probably isn’t the best way to enjoy life. An easy solution would be to reach out to local plumbing companies like Harts Services for sewer line maintenance and drain cleaning in Seattle, Tacoma, and surrounding cities. Clear out your drains and get back to the comfort a clean drain system brings to your home!
