Why is My Sink Gurgling?

One of the main reasons sinks make excellent friends is that they let you do all the talking. But occasionally, some sinks become a lot more vocal – they start gurgling. If your sink has started talking back, it might be more than a minor annoyance – it could be a sign of a larger problem.

Is it just the one sink?

The first troubleshooting step is to figure out if multiple sinks are having a chat, or just the one. If you are hearing from more than one sink or drain, it could be a sign that there is a sewer line blockage, which isn’t something you can easily DIY. If you are hearing a lot of gurgling from multiple locations, you will want to consult a professional plumber. If it is just one sink trying to have a conversation, then the solution might be simpler.

What is the status of your roof?

This might seem like an odd question when we are talking about drains. But drains have a vent pipe that releases all those unpleasant gases outside. The vent pipe is usually on the roof (above your primary bathroom) and can be a magnet for debris. If you can safely access your roof, you should ensure the vent is clear of leaves and dirt (and check your gutters while you are at it). High pressure water in the vent opening will help clear anything beyond the obvious debris you can see.

If you can’t easily access your roof but are suspicious that a blocked vent could be the issue (perhaps you can tell your eaves are clogged, which is a good indication your vent could be too) then hire someone with the experience and equipment to safely clear your roof.

Unclog the drain!

The simplest reason for a gurgling single sink is a partial clog, especially in the P-trap. Hair, soap scum, food scraps and oil are all common culprits of the clog which cause a build up of air pressure that pulls on the water in the P-trap and makes the noise you hear. If this is the case, try a plunger, a combination of vinegar and baking soda, and/or a plumbing snake.

Call a plumber

If you’ve tried what you can, and the noise is still there, don’t just get used to the sound – call a plumber. There could be an issue with an incorrect drainpipe installation, a broken P-trap, or a drain that is too shallow. Having a professional assess the problem will make the solution a lot easier and it will ensure there isn’t a larger concern that will cost you more later. Whatever the cause of your gurgling sink or drain, it is best to find a solution to silence it now; and look for conversation elsewhere.