What is a common method to locate a clogged drain?

Listening for gurgling sounds is a common method to locate a clogged drain because these sounds often indicate that water is struggling to flow through a blocked pipe. When a blockage occurs, the flow of water can create air pockets, leading to gurgling noises as the water tries to navigate around the obstruction. This auditory clue can help a plumber identify potential problem areas within the drainage system, making it easier to locate the exact spot of the clog.

While using a pressure gauge and monitoring the water meter can be valuable in specific scenarios, they are less effective for determining the immediate location of a clog in a drain. A pressure gauge may measure back pressure or flow dynamics, but it does not provide the direct audio feedback needed to identify a blockage. Monitoring the water meter can indicate that water is not flowing correctly or there is an issue with the supply, but it won’t help pinpoint a specific location of a drain blockage. Feeling for temperature changes, though useful in evaluating other plumbing issues (such as hot water line problems), is not a reliable method for locating a clogged drain. Thus, listening for gurgling sounds remains a practical and effective approach in diagnosing clogged drains.