Homeowners always want their homes to be as functional as possible, and their plumbing has a huge say in this matter. But even the most well-maintained plumbing systems may have issues from time to time.
When it comes to their plumbing systems, one issue that many homeowners face is gurgling drain pipes. If you hear a gurgling sound coming from your drain pipe, it could indicate a minor issue or plumbing emergency.
In this blog post, we will be discussing the steps you can take to determine what’s wrong and fix your gurgling drain pipe.
How Can I Determine What’s Causing a Gurgling Drain Pipe and Fix It?
There are a multitude of issues that can lead to a gurgling drain pipe. The following steps can help homeowners figure out why their drain pipe is gurgling and get it fixed as soon as possible:
- Step 1: Clear the Blockage – A clogged pipe can lead to a gurgling drain pipe. As such, it's important to clear any blockages that may be causing the problem. One way to clear the blockage is by using a plunger. You just place the plunger over the drain and apply pressure until the blockage is cleared. This can also be done using a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
- Step 2: Check the Ventilation – Another issue that may cause a gurgling drain pipe is inadequate ventilation. This happens when the air pressure inside the drain pipe is decreased, which causes water to drain slowly, resulting in a gurgling sound. To diagnose and fix this problem, make sure that there is enough ventilation to release the air in the pipe. If there isn’t, you may need to replace the pipe or repair the ventilation system.
- Step 3: Check the Drain Trap – The drain traps, which are found under the sink or tub, prevent water from flowing back into the drainpipes. Dirt and debris can clog the traps leading to a gurgling sound and slow drainage. Cleaning out the trap is an effective way of dealing with this problem. Use a drain snake or pour baking soda, vinegar, and hot water down the drain to remove the debris.
- Step 4: Hire a Plumber – If all the above steps fail to remedy the issue, it's advisable to call in a plumber. A professional will help identify the cause of the gurgling sound and determine if there are other underlying plumbing issues that need to be fixed. A plumber could also assist in replacing old or damaged pipes that are causing the problem.
Bottom line, a gurgling drain pipe can indicate a complicated plumbing issue or blockage in the system. It's important to identify the cause and address it as soon as possible. Homeowners can often fix the problem themselves by using a variety of troubleshooting methods. However, if none of these work, it's time to call a professional plumber.
Need help with a gurgling drain pipe? Give Smith’s Plumbing Services a call at (901) 290-1110 or contact us online today. To learn more about our plumbing experts, read our customers’ reviews.