Read on to learn why your kitchen or bathroom sink gurgles and what you can do to prevent a costly repair bill.
Causes of Gurgling Drain
You may be wondering, “Why is my sink gurgling?” Well, the truth is that there are a few common culprits that can cause it to start making weird or strange noises. These potential problems include:
A Forming Clog
Gurgling sounds from your sink could be due to an early-stage clog that hasn’t caused backflow yet. Drain clogs that are just starting to form tend to trap air pockets that bubble up through the water. If you see sink bubbles when draining, you might have a partial clog trapping air.
Avoid using “drain cleaner” products if you suspect the noises you hear are due to a clogged drain. The harsh chemicals that they contain can severely damage the pipes. Using them could make repairs more costly than calling a plumber.
Drain Vent Blockage
Blocked drain vents are another reason you might hear a gurgling sound. They prevent sewer gases from building up in your drain pipes by diverting the gas through roof pipes. Birds nests, leaves, and other debris can sometimes block the drain vent pipes. When a blockage occurs, the sewer gas backs up, creating that distinct bubbling sound when water runs down the drain.
Damaged Sewer Line
The most severe reason for sink gurgling is damage to the main sewer line. If it has a block or break, sewage can back up into your house. The first sign of a sewer line issue is often a glugging sound coming from the drain. Sewer gases being forced back up through the lines cause this to happen.
[RELATED: You won’t believe what we pulled out of their drain. We were just as shocked as the homeowner!]
Damaged Drain Lines
Cracked or broken drain lines can lead to leaks that disrupt water flow and cause gurgling sounds. It’s essential to address these issues as soon as possible. Repairing or replacing the damaged pipes restores proper water flow and prevents further complications. This not only solves the noise problem but also safeguards the integrity of your plumbing system.
Faulty P-Trap
A P-trap that isn’t working right might not keep enough water in it. This part of your drain blocks bad sewer smells from entering your home. You might hear gurgling and smell horrible odors if it’s not doing its job.
Septic Tank Problems
Issues with your septic tank, such as overfilling or lack of regular maintenance, can lead to gurgling sounds in your drains. These noises are often one of the first signs that the tank needs attention. Regular septic tank checks and pumping are crucial for maintaining its proper function.
Accumulated Grease or Debris
The grease and debris in your pipes can narrow the water flow space so it’s best to avoid pouring either of these down your drain. Over time, built-up grease and debris can lead to slow drainage which creates gurgling noises coming from your sink. It’s best to call a professional local plumber to remedy the situation.
Air Bubbles in Plumbing System
Air bubbles in your plumbing system can cause kitchen sink gurgling sounds. These bubbles often happen when there is air trapped in the pipes. If you have damaged or incorrectly installed plumbing, you might hear your sink make “burping” sounds.
Is a Gurgling Sink Dangerous?
A kitchen sink drain gurgling is often more of a warning sign than an immediate danger. It indicates that there is air trapped somewhere in your plumbing system. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore the sound. If left unchecked, the problems causing this noise can lead to more severe and costlier plumbing issues.
The drain burping noise sometimes indicates a larger problem, such as a damaged sewer line or a malfunctioning septic system. These problems can pose health risks and lead to expensive repairs if not addressed quickly.
What to Do and What Not to Do
Gurgling drains can be annoying, but they’re more than an audible nuisance. They’re a sign of a problem within your pipes that you shouldn’t ignore. Acting quickly can prevent more serious plumbing issues in the future.
Start by using a plunger to try and clear any basic blockages. This can often solve simple clogs. If that doesn’t work, the next step is to check the P-trap under the sink. Cleaning out the P-trap can often remove debris that causes clogging.
If the burping sounds continue, it likely indicates a serious issue. Contacting a plumbing expert is advisable if basic DIY methods don’t fix the noise problem. They have the right skills and tools to effectively tackle complex issues like deep clogs, blocked vents, and damaged sewer lines.
Calling a professional ensures a proper fix and helps prevent potential damage from DIY attempts.
Call the Professionals to Fix Your Gurgling Drain
Many people think the burping noise is probably no big deal if the water eventually drains. Or worse yet, they run out and buy a chemical drain-cleaning solution that makes the problem ten times worse.
Ignoring the situation won’t make it go away. Your drain needs to be evaluated and corrected by a professional to ensure that it’s not a sign of a bigger problem. The longer you wait to call someone to look at it, the greater the chance of the issue turning into a plumbing emergency that can cause sewage to back up into your home.
For over 18 years, Robinson’s Plumbing Services has proudly served homeowners in the greater Richmond area. Our professional plumbers, transparent pricing, and service guarantee make us the top choice for all your plumbing needs.
If your sink starts making strange noises—don’t delay! Contact us below to schedule an appointment. We’ll come out, quickly diagnose the cause of the problem, and correct it to get your drain system working like should.
To find out more about our other plumbing services, just click the button below.