Gurgling drains are more than just a nuisance; they can be a sign of underlying plumbing issues which can end up costing a fortune for you to repair.
If your drains are making strange noises and you’re not sure why, it's important to be proactive and do your detective work to find out where the noise is coming from. Not only can doing so help you get your plumbing system working smoothly again, but it can also prevent a minor problem turning into a major drain disaster. So, what causes drain gurgling? Let’s take a look.
While they might sound unpleasant, gurgling sounds from drains are typically caused by air bubbles trapped in the pipes: when water flows through the drainage system, it displaces air, which usually escapes silently. However, if there’s a problem in the system - such as a blockage - this air can become trapped and cause the characteristic gurgling noise as it struggles to escape.
One of the most common reasons for drain gurgling is a clog or obstruction within the pipes. When drains are partially blocked, water flows around the blockage, creating air pockets that lead to gurgling sounds. Common culprits include food debris, grease, hair, and small objects that inadvertently enter the drain.
Your plumbing system includes vent pipes that allow air to enter the system, helping to maintain proper pressure and allowing gases to escape. If these vents are blocked or improperly installed, this can also disrupt the airflow, in turn causing the gurgling sounds in your drains.
Issues with the main sewer line, such as blockages or damage, can also lead to gurgling drains, but these problems tend to be more serious than a simple blocked drain, and can end up affecting the entire plumbing system of your home.
Sometimes, fluctuations in water pressure can cause gurgling in pipes. While this does tend to be less common, it can still occur if there are issues with your home's water supply system.
While it might be tempting to put gurgling sounds down to a passing inconvenience, ignoring them can end up leading to more serious plumbing issues over time. A gurgling noise might be a sign of a growing blockage, which can eventually lead to a complete clog or, worse, an overflow or backup. Additionally, if the problem is related to the sewer line or venting, it could affect the overall efficiency and safety of your home’s plumbing system. Nipping the problem in the bud is key here - not just to preserve your home’s plumbing system, but also your bank account.
For those who are comfortable with some DIY methods, there are several approaches you can take to tackle gurgling drains. Firstly, pouring boiling water down the drain can sometimes dissolve minor, greasy clogs that are causing the gurgling sounds. You can also do this for maintenance purposes too, around 1-2 times a week.
A standard plunger can also be useful in dislodging clogs that are not too deep within the pipes. If the blockage is organic, a natural remedy like a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also help break it down.
For more stubborn clogs, a drain snake or auger can reach deeper into the pipes to remove the obstruction, although you’ll need to ensure that you know how to use a drain snake correctly before opting for this method. Additionally, if you have access to your roof and are familiar with basic plumbing, checking the vent pipes for any blockages like leaves or nests could resolve venting issues causing the gurgling.
Just like any home repair, there are situations where DIY solutions might not suffice, and calling a professional drain unblocking service becomes necessary. Professionals - like us as FS Drainage - have access to advanced tools such as motorised augers and hydro-jetters that can effectively clear even the toughest blockages, and do so without damaging your existing plumbing.
Plus, for issues that are not immediately apparent, professionals like us can conduct CCTV drain surveys, which allow us to identify the exact location and nature of the problem. And if the gurgling is a result of sewer line issues, we also have the expertise to conduct necessary repairs or replacements.
And most importantly, hired professionals can also provide a comprehensive solution that not only addresses the immediate issue but also diagnoses and remedies underlying problems, thus preventing future complications.
Overall , while gurgling drains are a relatively common issue in households, it’s always a good idea to nip the problem in the bud before it gets worse. Depending on the severity and the root cause of the problem, you might be able to resolve it with DIY methods, but for more persistent or complex issues, seeking the help of a professional drain unblocking service is usually your best bet.
