Plumbing

Does it sound like your pipes are gargling water?

Although gurgling drains are a common issue, the underlying cause could be anything from trapped hair to a more significant issue that could put your home at risk for water damage.

Here’s what you need to know if your drains are gurgling:

Clogged Drains Could Be The Culprit

A simple clogged drain is the source of a lot of plumbing issues. Similar to our intestines, gurgling, and other unfavorable noises start up when air gets trapped in the systems.

But how is the air getting trapped?

If the flow of water is blocked, the air is also prevented from going through. The bubbles of the trapped air cause a gurgling noise as they attempt to get past the water.

Issues With Your Sewer Line

The pipes under your home that carry all of the waste and sewage to the sewer system are the sewer line for your home. If your drains are making those strange gurgling noises, it could possibly be a problem with your sewer line.

If you suspect any issues with this part of your plumbing, call a professional plumber right away, as a sewer line problem can lead to significant damage and also pose a health hazard.

Troubles With Trees

That’s right: trees would be causing the gurgling sound that you hear coming up from your drains.

Tree roots can cause problems when they start to grow through your pipes. Other signs that tree roots are causing your problems are soft spots in your yard, and even sinkholes.

Busted Pipes

When a sewer line breaks, it can cause air to make its way into your plumbing, which in turn can cause a gurgling sound in your drains. This can also cause some pretty smells.

Busted pipes can lead to further damage that can impact the structural integrity of your home. It is important to address any broken pipes quickly.

Damaged or Clogged P-Traps

Underneath your sinks are a piece of curved pipe called a P-trap.

The P-trap is the pipe that keeps all of the gross odors and the gasses from getting back into your house. However, when this P-trap becomes damaged or even just blocked, the water flow slows significantly, which causes a vacuum. This chain of events is what can cause those ugly gurgling noises.

Signs that your P-traps need to be cleared or replaced is a pungent foul odor coming up from your drains, and of course, gurgling sounds coming from your drains.

How Do Fix Gurgling Pipes on My Own?

If you’re considering DIYing your gurgling pipes, there are a few things to think about first:

  • Are your pipes easily accessible?
  • Can you access them without causing more damage to them?
  • Can you access the pipes without putting yourself at risk?
  • Do you have the proper equipment, knowledge and skill to do the job?

Keep in mind that if the issue is with a sewer line, chances are there will be harmful bacteria, and should be handled only by a trained professional.

However, if it’s just a simple clogged drain pipe, and you can access it from your home, there are DIY options you can try:

  • Plunger or drain snake: If you think it’s a simple blockage due to hair, debris, or food, using a plumber or drain snake could do the job.
  • Baking Soda and Vinegar: Baking soda and vinegar can treat a lot of problems with your pipes, from drain flies to hair clogs to other blockages. Pour some boiling water, followed by a cup of each baking soda, then vinegar down the drain. By doing this, the frothy effect may be enough to tackle that blockage.
  • Clean out your P-traps: If the problem is in your sinks, simply cleaning out any grease or food buildups in your P-traps may fix the issue of gurgling drains.

If DIY methods aren’t working and your pipes are still gurgling, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Fix Drain Gurgling With JW Plumbing, Heating and Air

Even the simplest problems with your plumbing can worsen and result in significant water damage to your home.

Your home is an investment: don’t put your investment at risk! A professional plumbing service like JW Plumbing, Heating and Air can help fix any gurgling drains and identify any other issues with your plumbing before they turn into a more serious problem.

From routine inspections to drain clearing to fixing leaking pipes or even more severe plumbing issues, we’re here to help! Call and speak with a member of the JW Plumbing, Heating and Air team today and schedule an appointment.

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