The first sign of trouble with your sink is a change in the sound when you drain it, with gurgling noises being one of the most common complaints. While they may seem like a minor problem, the reason behind the noise is a growing clogged drain, so it's a good idea to have your plumber address the issue before it gets worse. Below, you’ll learn how clogs are caused, why they lead to gurgling, and how to identify the various forms of this issue.

What Makes the Gurgling Noise?

Whenever water flows down your drain, it's replacing air that was sitting in the pipe. The air needs somewhere to go, so it flows out of a vent pipe further down the line in your pipes. This structure is an important feature of the plumbing system and is designed to equalize air pressure and prevent noises such as gurgling.

However, when the passageway inside the drain narrows, or when parts of the system are blocked, the air can't escape, and it creates a vacuum or increases the air pressure in your plumbing. This happens when pipes are fully or partially clogged and, instead of flowing smoothly down the pipe, the water bubbles noisily until the clog is removed.

What Kinds of Clogs Cause This Issue?

Sometimes, the problem is straightforward, and the drainpipe itself is clogged, or it has a buildup of debris that is starting to choke off the flow of air and water. At other times, the clog is deeper in your plumbing, below the point where your drainpipe connects to the rest of your pipes, which makes it more difficult to locate. Additionally, gurgling or slow drains in more than one place in the house indicate a clog deep in the pipes.

There’s also the possibility that the vent pipe is clogged instead of the main drainpipe. The answer in all three cases is to have your plumber locate the clog and clean out the pipes.

If you have a gurgle, a clog, or a leaking pipe, the experienced plumbers at B&B Plumbing & Heating in Oxford, OH will help. Serving Butler County for 35 years, these skilled and licensed plumbers and HVAC technicians provide 24-hour service. They're led by a qualified co-owner, with five state-level masters' licenses, who chooses the best tradesmen to be part of the team. Call (513) 523-4010 or visit their website to make an appointment.