Why Are There Bubbles in My Sink?

Have you ever turned on your kitchen or bathroom sink, only to notice bubbles rising up from the drain? Or are you hearing gurgling sounds from your drain? While it might seem like a minor annoyance, these bubbles can actually be a sign of a more significant issue within your plumbing system.

At Dean’s Home Services, our plumbers have seen and fixed it all. In this blog, we’ll cover why you might see bubbles or hear gurgling in your sink and what you can do to fix this common plumbing problem.

Why Are Bubbles Coming From My Drain?

If you see bubbles or hear gurgling noises coming from your drain, it means that there is air trapped inside. While air is a natural part of your plumbing, it becomes a problem when pressure builds and affects the seal in your sink’s P-trap, forming bubbles. If there is pressure in your drain, when water flows down the drain, a vacuum will pull air through the P-trap, causing gurgling noises and bubbles.

Causes of Pressure Building in a Sink Drain

There are a few different reasons why pressure could be building in your sink drain, including:

• Drain clogs: A clogged drain in your bathroom or kitchen can cause pressure buildup that leads to gurgling and bubbles coming up through your sink drain.
• Improper installation: If the vent is not installed the correct distance from the P-trap, this gurgling sound could develop.
• Blocked drain vents: When the main vents are clogged, flushing a toilet or draining a tub can cause your sink to gurgle. 

What To Do About Bubbles in Your Sink

If you notice bubbles in your sink, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications. Here are some steps you can take:

Unclog the Drain

Start by checking for clogs in the sink drain by seeing if your sink is draining properly. If you do think a clog is to blame for the bubbles in your sink, you can use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to try to clear the blockage. For minor clogs, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can sometimes do the trick.

Inspect the Venting System

If you suspect a venting issue, inspect the vent pipes for any visible blockages. This might involve climbing onto the roof, so proceed with caution. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing this, it’s best to call a professional.

Schedule Septic System Maintenance

For homes with septic systems, regular maintenance is crucial. If you haven’t had your septic tank inspected or pumped in a while, it might be time to schedule a service.

Call Dean’s for Professional Sink & Drain Repairs

If the problem persists or you’re unable to determine the cause, it’s time to call in the experts. At Dean’s Home Services, we have the experience and tools to diagnose and fix your plumbing issues efficiently. Our plumbers have over 100 combined years of experience providing top-quality plumbing services in the Twin Cities area. No matter the cause of your bubbling drain, we are sure to have the solution you need.

Call Dean’s to schedule plumbing services in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the surrounding areas.