3 Reasons Why Your Sink is Gurgling – And How to Fix Them
You expect your teenager to talk back to you – but when you hear strange noises coming from your sink, it can take you by surprise. Some call it gurgling; others say bubbling. One thing we can all agree on is that it’s a plumbing issue you want to fix right away.
A gurgling sink can be caused by a clog in the interior plumbing or sewer line, or a problem with the drain venting. Either way, if ignored, the issue will only get worse.
Common causes of a gurgling sink
Whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or utility sink, a gurgling noise coming up from the drain means there’s a disruption somewhere in the plumbing system. There are three common causes:
1. A partial clog in the drainpipe, most likely in the P-trap below the sink. Clogs are typically caused by hair, oil, soap scum, food scraps, or other waste getting stuck in the trap or sticking to the inside walls of the pipe. Partial clogs can often be resolved with simple DIY methods such as a plunger (to push the obstruction past the trap), a plumber’s snake (to break up the clog), or a baking soda/vinegar method (a safer, cheaper alternative to dissolving the blockage with liquid drain cleaners).
If you’re unsuccessful in unclogging the drain, it may be time to bring in a plumber with the right expertise and pro-grade tools.
2. Sewer line blockage. The sewer line is the pipe that carries all the wastewater to the municipal sewer system. This pipe can get clogged like any other in your home; however, when it does, it will affect the entire house. So, if you have multiple sinks gurgling simultaneously, it’s a sign of a sewer line blockage, not a simple clog.
A sewer line blockage is a serious plumbing issue that can be difficult (or impossible) for homeowners to fix. You’ll want to consult a professional plumber about repairing or replacing the sewer line.
3. Improper venting. The drain has a vent pipe that releases sewer gases outside and prevents a vacuum from forming (which would prevent the water from flowing through the drain). The vent pipe usually sticks out of the roof, so it’s prone to getting clogged with leaves, bird nests, and other debris.
If you feel comfortable climbing to the roof and cleaning out the vent pipe, you can see if that fixes the gurgling sound.
Plumber for a sink and drain
If you have a gurgling sink, it’s telling you there’s an issue somewhere in the drain system. Try the solutions we mentioned earlier, but if they don’t do the trick, the next step is to contact the North Shore pros at Waldman Plumbing and Heating, Inc. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (781) 780-3184.