Gurgling drains: what that sound in the pipes means
A gurgle is air being pulled through water in a drain trap. One sink that gurgles usually has a partial clog in its own line. When the toilet gurgles while the washer drains, or every drain in the house is slow, the problem is further down, in the main line or the vent.
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From one of our jobs
The drain stack inside the wall, opened up
Right now: Run the sink that gurgles and watch the nearest tub or toilet. If it bubbles too, the main line needs a look.
Every drain in a house runs into a stack like this one, and the stack runs down to the main sewer line. It also runs up through the roof as a vent, which lets air in so water can flow. A clog below or a blocked vent above, and the water drags air through the traps instead. That’s the gurgle.
Leaves and nests in the roof vent cause it in the fall. Grease, wipes and roots in the main line cause it the rest of the year. A camera down the line shows which one it is before anyone digs.
Quick answers
What people ask about gurgling drains
Why does my toilet gurgle when I run the sink or washer?
The water from the sink or washer is pushing air past a clog or a blocked vent, and the toilet’s trap is where it escapes. That usually points at the main line or the vent, not the toilet.
Are gurgling drains a sign of a sewer problem?
When more than one drain gurgles, or the lowest drain backs up, yes, often. One sink alone is usually just that sink’s line.
Can a blocked vent cause gurgling?
Yes. Without air from the roof vent, draining water pulls air through the traps. Leaves, nests and ice are the usual culprits.
Will drain cleaner fix gurgling drains?
Rarely, and it’s hard on old pipes. If it’s the main line or the vent, the chemical never reaches it.
Who do I call about gurgling drains in Northern Virginia?
Call SwiftPro at (703) 997-9757. We clear drains and camera sewer lines across Northern Virginia, and you see the video.
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SwiftPro Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
4230 Lafayette Center Dr N, Chantilly, VA 20151
44679 Endicott Dr, Suite 211, Ashburn, VA 20147
SwiftPro Plumber & Water Heaters
4200 Lafayette Center Dr, Suite N, Chantilly, VA 20151
Virginia Class A contractor license #2705192276