Air Lock in Pipes? Here’s What to Do

An air lock in plumbing refers to a situation where pockets of air become trapped in a section of a pipe, thereby restricting water flow. It normally occurs at the highest section of a pipe. An air lock in your waste pipe can prevent wastewater from draining away, resulting in slow drains and incomplete toilet flushes. You may be able to resolve an air lock problem with some simple DIY fixes, but there are situations where you’ll have to call a professional plumber to help you.

In this article, we will look at the common causes of an air lock in pipes, the symptoms of an air lock, and what you can do to fix the problem.

What Causes An Air Lock In Waste Pipes?

• Blocked vent pipe that causes air to get trapped in the plumbing venting system
• Poor installation of pipes
• A leak along the waste pipe, allowing air to enter the pipe
• Sudden changes in water pressure with a waste pipe, leading to air getting trapped within a section of the pipe

Signs of an Air Lock In Waste Pipe

• Gurgling sounds when water drains
• Banging noises in waste pipe
• Drains slower than usual
• Completely blocked drains
• Incomplete toilet flush cycle

How to Fix Air Lock in Waste Pipe

• Step 1: Turn off your water supply at the main water valve.
• Step 2: Turn on all taps and water-using appliances, including those in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room. Start from the top floor and work your way downstairs.
• Step 3: Once the taps and appliances run out of water, flush all your toilets until there’s no water left.
• Step 4: Close your taps a little bit, making sure that only a small amount of water will be able to get through.
• Step 5: Turn the water supply back on and then turn the taps halfway open.
• Step 6: Let the taps run for a couple of minutes and turn them off in the same order you turned them on.
• Step 7: Flush your toilets to ensure they are draining properly.

Following these steps should completely discharge any air in your pipes and allow wastewater to drain freely. If the problem persists after you’ve followed the steps outlined above, do not hesitate to call in a trusted plumber to help you resolve the problem. A plumber will come in with advanced tools and equipment, including video inspection camera and accurately diagnose the problem.

Need Help With Fixing An Air Lock In Waste Pipe? Call Neighborhood Plumbing Today

Here at Neighborhood Plumbing, we have the expertise, experience, and equipment to fix all kinds of pipe problems, including air locks. If you’re unable to clear an air lock in your pipes, let us help you out. Neighborhood Plumbing offers premium residential and commercial plumbing services, including pipe repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, water line installation & repair, kitchen plumbing, bathroom plumbing, and many more. Call us today or contact us online to schedule an appointment.