The sound of running water can be soothing, even from a kitchen sink. If you hear gurgling instead, you may be concerned that your sink is in need of plumbing repair. Sounds like these are often a sign of distress in your plumbing system, so even as you make an appointment with a plumber, you should know the reasons why it can happen.

3 Causes of Gurgling Sinks

1. Plugged Vent Pipes

A vent pipe’s job is to safely release sewer gas so that it doesn’t seep into your home. They run between your sink and roof, where debris and pests can find their way inside. If the vent pipe becomes obstructed with dirt, dust, leaves, or nests and droppings left by pests, the gas can’t escape, so it backtracks through the pipes and makes a gurgling sound in your sink. There isn’t a safe way to fix this yourself, so call for an emergency plumber if you think it could be the issue.

2. Clogged Drain

Both kitchen and bathroom sinks have a tendency to become clogged with a number of different items. Food, hair, oil, grease, eggshells, and soap scum are especially common. Clogs block the passage of air and water through your pipes. The trapped air is pushed out by the water when you drain it, creating bubbles and gurgling noises. In some cases, drain cleaning is easy if you pour a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water down the drain. However, professional plumbing repair is a more reliable way to stop the problem from worsening.

3. Faulty P-Trap

Typically situated in the cabinet under your sink, a p-trap is responsible for blocking food and other debris from causing the aforementioned clogs in your drains. It can’t do its job if it’s broken or missing, leading to clogs and gurgling. If the problem persists even after you try to clean the drain, it may mean that the clog is too large for a DIY solution, or the p-trap is broken. Replacing a p-trap can be tricky, so it needs the attention of a plumbing repair expert.

If your sink needs plumbing repair for these or other problems, contact Reader Plumbing & Septic, Inc. in Kaukauna, WI. Having offered top-notch commercial and residential plumbing services for more than 40 years, they guarantee quick, efficient, and reliable fixes at affordable rates. They also work around your schedule, including being willing to schedule weekend jobs if necessary. To ask for a consultation or estimate, call them today at (920) 788-2527 or message them online.