Bathtub Drain Making Gurgling Noise

Is your bathtub drain making a gurgling noise? While it might seem like nothing more than a nuisance, those sounds could indicate a serious plumbing complication.

As a leading provider of plumbing services in Whitestown, IN, we at Star Heating, Cooling & Plumbing know a thing or two about unusual fixture behaviors. Read on as we break down the possible culprits.

1. You Have a Blocked Vent Stack

Vent stacks help your plumbing breathe. They release sewer gases and regulate air pressure in your pipes.

When a vent stack becomes blocked by debris, leaves, or even a bird’s nest, it disrupts airflow. This creates a vacuum within the pipework and causes water to struggle to drain. That’s when you hear those frustrating bubbling noises!

Confirm your suspicions by listening to other drains and fixtures. Plumbing vent issues affect the whole system, not just your bathtub.

What’s the Fix?

You need to refresh the vent cover or use a handheld vacuum to clear debris stuck in the pipe. A quick blast of water from a garden hose might help flush it out.

We generally don’t recommend doing it yourself. Most vent stacks sit on your roof. It’s risky without proper safety equipment, and you may worsen the clog.

2. Your Whitestown Property Has Limited Plumbing Ventilation

Did you recently move into your new home or make major changes to its plumbing?

Shoddy plumbing installations or poorly planned layouts can restrict airflow in your pipes. Without proper ventilation, water struggles to flow smoothly. It’s common in older Whitestown properties or after unprofessional remodeling.

What’s the Fix?

Is your bathtub making a gurgling noise as it drains? Unfortunately, there’s no easy DIY solution for this. You’ll likely need a plumber to inspect and adjust the ventilation.

3. You Have a Clogged Tub Drain

We shed a lot of hair naturally, especially while bathing. The material can build up over time and create a hairball inside your bathtub drain. This issue becomes more common when multiple people use the same bathroom.

Other possible culprits include congealed soap scum and dirt or even foreign objects like toys or jewelry.

What’s the Fix?

Visit your nearest hardware store in Whitestown and buy a plastic drain snake. Insert the device into the tub drain, twist, and pull to catch the blockage. Remove it carefully and repeat as needed.

Why not get a drain screen or catcher as a proactive measure? It’s easier to clean and saves time.

4. You Have a Blocked Drain Pipe

Is your bathtub drain making a gurgling noise? Try to pinpoint the source of the sound.

Clogs don’t always stay near the drain. Sometimes, debris gets pushed deeper into the pipes as the water flows. Remove the whole drain to double-check.

What’s the Fix?

Bring out your trusty plunger and create a tight seal around the drain. Keep pushing and pulling until water starts flowing properly.

A homemade cleaning solution might also help. Combine ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar, and pour it down the drain. Let it work its magic for ten minutes, then flush everything with boiling water.

5. The Septic System Has Reached Maximum Capacity

Does your property have its own septic system? A full tank can’t handle more wastewater, so air gets trapped in the pipes and eventually escapes through your drains. Other common warning signs include pooling water in your yard, unusually lush patches of grass, and foul odors.

What’s the Fix?

Most households typically need to pump their septic tank every three to five years. Consult a plumber and arrange an inspection.

6. The Fault Lies Within Your Sewer Line in Whitestown

The worst-case scenario is a damaged or faulty sewer line. You likely won’t just experience bathtub drain problems. Watch out for red flags like multiple clogs across your Whitestown home, awful sewage odors, or yard flooding.

What’s the Fix?

Bring in a specialist immediately. Sewer line problems can lead to messy backups that endanger your health.