Has the plumbing below your sink started making a particularly loud glugging, gurgling, or bubbling sound? While this noise might seem harmless, this sound means there’s trouble brewing in your plumbing system that could lead to bigger problems down the road.
Below, we’ll explain what causes that gurgling noise and what you can do about it.
#1 Cause: A Clog Is Forming
The most common cause behind a bubbling or gurgling sound below a sink is a clog. Sink drain clogs can be formed by numerous substances and materials including:
- Hair (human and pet)
- Grease
- Soap scum (typically from bar soap)
- Scraps of food
- Adhesives
- Paint
If you’re an avid DIY-er, you can dislodge the blockage yourself either using a cup plunger or a drain snake. We strongly advise against using chemical drain cleaners, which can end up causing more harm than good. Additionally, they simply are not as effective as a drain snake at removing stubborn blockages.
You can also contact a plumber for a drain cleaning service to clear the clog. A professional can be especially helpful if the clog needs to be accessed from a cleanout or if electric equipment is needed.
#2 Cause: Something Is Blocking A Vent Pipe
Did you know your plumbing system contains pipes that aren’t meant for water? Your home’s plumbing contains a drain-waste-vent system, and the vent system is what prevents smelly sewer gases from building up inside of your drain pipes.
Pipes in the vent system give those gases a place to escape so that pressure doesn’t build up. The gases exit your home through a central pipe that’s usually located on your roof. Because this pipe is exposed to the outdoors, it can occasionally become blocked by things such as:
- Leaves and branches
- Garbage blown by the wind
- Bird nests
- Small animal carcasses
Because of this pipe’s roof-top location, it’s typically best to let a licensed and insured plumber take care of clearing the blockage for you.
Seattle Plumbing Services Done Right
As professional plumbers, we understand the importance of pinpointing and resolving problems quickly. At Green Planet Plumbing & Sewer, LLC, we’re dedicated to getting to the root of your home’s plumbing issue and providing you with a quality solution so that you can have the peace of mind you deserve: (206) 207-7625.