Each of us has probably heard the characteristic gurgling in the sink at least once in our lives. Usually, shortly after, it turns out that water remains in the sink basin and does not want to flow out. Along with the gurgling, unpleasant smells may also emerge from the drain. This is an unmistakable sign that you should check the state of the plumbing installation. Most likely, the drain has become clogged, and this is the cause of the gurgling.
Where Does the Gurgling Sound in the Pipes Come From?
If the gurgling occurs right after using the sink, it is probably a signal that it will soon become clogged. This is not a big problem, because usually only the segment between the sink and the vertical drain is blocked. However, if the gurgling problem occurs regardless of using the sink, it may indicate that a blockage has occurred in the vertical drain, which is definitely a more serious situation.
If the siphon is working correctly, but the gurgling in the sink does not stop and an unpleasant smell appears, and dirty water escapes from the drain to the sink, it means that you should call a professional. Unless you have a plumbing tool at home and know how to use it.
Remove Gurgling and Unpleasant Smells
Most often, the cause of gurgling and unpleasant smells is simply a clogged sink. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be managed using proven home methods. The main reason for kitchen sink clogs is food waste getting into them during food preparation and dishwashing. Therefore, you should remember to remove all large pieces of food before placing dishes in the sink.
A clogged sink can be resolved using a rubber plunger. Rhythmic pressing creates a vacuum in the pipe, which shifts any blockage toward the wider part of the drain. If this does not help, you should pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain hole and follow it with a cup of vinegar. Then, simply flush the drain with a large amount of water, preferably hot.
Could It Be an Air Vent?
If the procedures described above do not yield the expected result, the cause of the gurgling may be the air vent. Sometimes, in addition to disturbing noises, there may also be the siphon sucking water and a nasty smell from the sewer infiltrating the kitchen. A solution for such a problem could be an air vent. The air vent is installed above the sink and serves to allow air into the vertical drain. This will help maintain the proper pressure in the entire sewer system.
The air vent prevents the creation of vacuum in the vertical drain. Such a phenomenon may arise due to heavy water drainage, and not necessarily in the sink. The vent allows you to adjust the pressure level in the pipes. If a blockage occurs in the vent, it can be flushed out with a strong stream of water, or you can try pouring a drain cleaner into it.
How to Prevent Gurgling in the Pipes?
An empty pipe can be a source of unpleasant odors and disturbing sounds. Therefore, it is worth ensuring that there is always water in the drain. In addition, you should regularly clean not only the sink but also the drain. From time to time, it is advisable to flush it with a pipe cleaning product and hot water. Flowing water will remove any leftover food and any deposits that may occur on the siphon walls. Similarly, drains in showers and bathroom sinks should be treated.
If the gurgling concerns pipes located in the further parts of the building, it is likely that the entire vertical drain is clogged, and you will not be able to handle it alone. To prevent unpleasant odors from entering the apartment, the drain should be stopped with a plug. To clear a pipe in the building, it is advisable to call a plumber who has the appropriate equipment for unclogging blocked pipes.