Why Are My Drains Gurgling?
Are there strange noises coming out from your drains? These gurgling sounds can be a cause for concern, especially when you’re not sure what causes it.
The good news is there is a fix to this annoying problem once you nail down the cause of why it’s happening. Here is everything you need to know about what could be the cause of your gurgling drains and how to resolve it.
Gurgles From Clogged Drains
One of the more common culprits of gurgling drains is a clogged drain. If there is air trapped inside your pipes, you will start to hear a rumbling sound.
This is because water flow becomes restricted, and the air is not able to pass through. The grumbling sound occurs because the air bubbles are trying to make their way out of the drain and past the water.
Problems With Your Sewer Line
Odd noises coming from your drains could indicate a plumbing problem with your sewer line. The sewer line in your home carries sewage and wastewater away from your home and to your municipal sewer system.
Tree Roots
Trees are a delight to have in our yards and gardens, but they can create big issues with your plumbing, particularly your sewer line. If a tree root grows through your pipes an obstruction can develop.
Typical signs that a root has gone through your sewer line are sinkholes or soft patches in the yard and gurgling drains and toilets. It is necessary to handle this situation fast to prevent further issues with your plumbing.
Broken Pipes
Gurgling drains is just one thing that can be caused by a broken or cracked sewer line. This can cause one smelly mess to clean up. If your sewer line breaks, it will cause air to enter the pipe which will cause that gurgling sound.
Contact a Proskill team member today to get this problem fixed and avoid all the sounds and smells of a broken sewer line.
Blocked Pipe
Like when a waterpipe becomes blocked, a blocked sewer line will trap the air bubbles inside, causing the pipe to grumble when the air is trying to get past the clog. However, when a sewer line is blocked there may be more issues than when a freshwater pipe is blocked.
It is recommended to contact a licensed plumber for this type of plumbing issue. Since these clogs are usually caused by a damaged pipe, fat and grease going down the drain, or paper towels and wipes being flushed down the toilet, a professional will have all the tools to clear it out properly.
Blocked Vent System
If your plumbing vents are blocked you’ll hear that familiar ‘glug’ sound that you hear when you pour water out of a bottle or carton too quickly.
Your vents are vented through the roof and connect to every pipe in your home. If leaves or twigs are blocking your vent, the air has no place to leave through. This will result in it trying to escape from the closest exit, which is usually your drain.
Damaged or Blocked P-Trap
The curved piece of pipe behind the sink is called a P-trap. This prevents nasty odors and gases from leaking into your home. When the p-trap is damaged or blocked, the water will flow too slowly and create a vacuum of air which will cause gurgling drains.
It may be time to replace your p-trap if you’re hearing the rumbling sounds and odors are coming out through the drains.
How to Fix Your Gurgling Drains
Are you getting annoyed and worried about your gurgling drains? There are a couple of DIY methods that you could try to take care of it on your own. Before you do that, though, there are a couple of things you want to consider:
- Is it possible you’ll do more damage to your pipes or put yourself at risk trying to access the problem?
- Do you have the know-how, tools, and skills to properly complete the job? This is especially the case with sewer lines, as these can be filled with harmful bacteria.
Here are a few DIY methods you can try to resolve a clogged pipe.
Use a Drain Snake or Plunger
A plunger or drain snake can take care of small clogs that are caused by food debris or hair in the drain.
Use a Solution of Baking Soda and Vinegar
This is a great solution to clogs. Pour boiling water down the drain, then follow it with a cup of baking soda and white vinegar. When these compounds are combined it may be enough to break down the clog.
Call a Licensed Professional
When you are dealing with gurgling drains, the best thing that you can do is contact a licensed professional. They have the experience and equipment to get the job done and prevent further issues with your drains. Our team at Proskill offers many services, including pipe and water line repair. Stop your gurgling drains today. Contact us to resolve the problem!