If you’ve ever been in the shower and heard a gurgling noise coming from your drain, you may have been wondering what it was. Chances are, it’s nothing to worry about. But then, you need to find out if it needs professional attention or not.
We’ve all been there – you’re in the middle of doing something and suddenly you hear an ominous gurgling sound coming from your drain. What is it? And what can you do about it?
The good news is that in most cases, this little predicament is nothing to worry about and can be easily fixed. But in some cases, it could be a sign of a more serious problem that will require the help of a professional plumbing contractor like Acme Plumbing.
Causes of Gurgling
Let’s take a look at what could be causing that gurgling sound coming from your drain and how to fix it. Two of the most common causes of gurgling sounds from your drain are a clogged vent pipe or a clogged drain line.
Gurgling Caused by a Clogged Vent Pipe
Your home’s plumbing system includes a network of vent pipes that allow air to enter the system and help keep the water flowing freely. If one of these vent pipes becomes blocked, it can cause a gurgling sound when water is draining from your sink, shower, or tub.
The most likely cause of a clogged vent pipe is a bird’s nest or some other type of debris that has made its way into the pipe. In most cases, you can clear a clogged vent pipe yourself by removing the blockage and then flushing the pipe with a garden hose.
If you are unable to clear the blockage yourself, or if the gurgling sound persists after you have cleared the vent pipe, you will need to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Gurgling Caused by a Clogged Drain Line
Another common cause of gurgling sounds coming from your drain is a clogged drain line. This can happen if there is a build-up of hair, soap scum, or grease in the drain line. You may be able to clear a clogged drain line yourself by using a plunger or a plumber’s snake.
If the clog is too far down the drain line to reach with a plunger or snake, you will need to call a professional plumber for help.
Gurgling Caused by a Sewer Line Clog
In some cases, the gurgling sound may be coming from your sewer line rather than your drain. This is usually due to a build-up of grease, hair, or other debris in the sewer line. If this is the case, you will need to call a professional plumber to solve the problem.
Gurgling Caused by a Damaged or Blocked P-Trap
The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that is located under your sink. Its purpose is to trap water in the bowl and prevent sewer gases from entering your home. If the P-trap becomes damaged, it can cause a gurgling sound when water is draining from your sink.
If the P-trap is blocked, you will need to remove the blockage and then flush the pipe with a garden hose. If the P-trap is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Gurgling Caused by a Septic Tank Problem
If your home has a septic tank, a gurgling sound coming from your drains could be a sign of a problem with the tank. If you suspect that your septic tank is the cause of the gurgling, you will need the help of a professional plumbing company.
How to Solve The Gurgling in The Sink Problem
While a gurgling sound from your sink is not a sign of an imminent serious plumbing issue, it is still important to sort it out as it may be a sign of a leaking or broken sewer line.
If you have determined that the gurgling sound is coming from your drain, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem.
First, try using a plunger to see if you can clear the blockage yourself. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a plumber’s snake to clear the drain line.
If neither of those methods works or if you can’t determine where the gurgling sound is coming from, you will need to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Contact Us to Diagnose That Gurgling Sound Coming From Your Drain
If you are having problems with your plumbing, or if you need assistance clearing a clogged drain or vent pipe, contact Acme Plumbing. We have a team of experienced and professional plumbers who are available 24/7 to help you with all your plumbing needs. Contact us today at (919) 688-1348 to schedule a visit.