There have been times when you knew your drain was clogged – like when the toilet overflowed or your bathtub stopped draining any water. However, most blockages are more subtle than that. They can be tricky to diagnose unless you know what to look for.

We’ve compiled the most common but lesser-known signs of a clogged drain so you can catch them early and prevent plumbing repairs later on!

A Lingering Odor Coming From Your Sink

When your drains function properly, they quickly flush away any food particles, grease, and other materials. So if you’ve got a foul smell from your sink, something is wrong – and it’s probably a clogged drain.

Unpleasant plumbing odors are usually due to a buildup of organic material somewhere in your plumbing. Call us for a drain cleaning service, and we’ll get your home back to smelling clean!

A “Gurgling” Sound After You Turn Off the Tap

There are normal plumbing sounds you’re used to – like the grinding of your garbage disposal or the slight humming that happens when the water heater kicks on. Gurgling sounds, however, shouldn’t be brushed off.

Call your local plumbing company if you notice this sound after you run the tap. This indicates that air is trapped in the pipes and trying to escape through a clog. It’s an early sign that your drain needs to be cleared before the pipe becomes blocked entirely.

Fluctuating Water Levels in Your Toilet

The water level in your toilet should remain relatively constant. If it’s going up and down quite a bit, have it looked at by the pros. 

Fluctuating water levels point towards a potential blockage because the water in your pipes can’t flow as freely as it should. If you notice this inconsistency, it’s time for a professional drain cleaning service.

Bubbles in the Toilet Bowl

Wherever there are bubbles, there’s trapped air that’s somehow being forced to the surface. In the case of your toilet, this can mean a blockage somewhere near the fixture causing the bubbles. 

Unless you or the kids have dropped a bar of soap in the toilet bowl recently, let your local plumber know what’s going on ASAP!

Backups That Need Plumbing Repair

Your home’s plumbing system is a complex network of pipes that are all interconnected. If there’s a blockage in one part of the network, it can cause water to leak in a totally different part of your home.

For example, a clog may compromise your main sewer line if you turn on the dishwasher and water starts pooling in your shower. Addressing the problem promptly is essential to ensure the structural integrity of your pipes remains intact and the problem doesn’t get any worse!

If you suspect a clog is compromising your home’s plumbing, don’t put off an inspection. ProFlo proudly provides Temecula Valley and Murrieta with timely, expert plumbing services. For more information, give us a call at 951-694-1300 or contact us online today!