It can be a frustrating experience to hear gurgling from a toilet. The sound is annoying, but it could also be indicative of a deeper problem. You need to investigate the cause of a toilet that makes a gurgling or squeaking sound when you flush. We’ll explain in this article why your toilet gurgles and what you can fix it.
What causes a toilet to gurgle?
Most often, a blocked drain is the cause of a gurgling noise. When water can’t move smoothly through the pipes it creates air-filled bubbles which rise to the top, creating the gurgling. It could be caused by:
- Clogged drains: This is most likely the cause of your problem. They are preventing water from draining out of the toilet. Over time, hair, soap scum or other debris can accumulate and cause a blockage.
- The main sewer line could also be clogged. If you hear gurgling and/or a gurgling sound from multiple drains, this may be the cause.
- Vent pipe. Every plumbing system comes with a vent tube that runs through the ceiling to allow sewer gasses to escape and air to flow into the drainpipes. This pipe may be clogged or damaged and cause your toilet to gurgle.
- Toilet trap. The toilet trap is a curvy portion of the toilet. It holds water to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. When this trap is clogged or damaged, you may hear gurgling sounds when flushing.
How to fix the gurgling of a toilet
To fix a toilet gurgling, you need to find the root cause. Here are some troubleshooting steps that you can follow:
- Check for blockages. Try using a plunger if you suspect the drain is clogged. Use a drain snake to remove the blockage. You can also mix baking soda with vinegar.
- A professional plumber should inspect the vent pipes. If they are clogged or damaged it may need to be repaired or cleaned.
- Check the trap on the toilet: To check the trap, remove the toilet from the wall and inspect it with a torch. Replace the trap if there is any damage or debris.
- Call a plumber. If you can’t identify the source of the gurgling, or you don’t want to try to fix it yourself, you should call a plumber. They will diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution.
Conclusion
A gurgling bathroom is not only irritating, but can also be an indication of a larger problem. You can prevent further damage by identifying the possible causes for a gurgling problem. When dealing with plumbing problems, always be sure to take safety measures and do not hesitate to contact a professional in the event that you feel uncomfortable with DIY repairs.