Causes of a Gurgling Toilet
An odd gurgling sound from the toilet can cause irritation and worry.
An odd gurgling sound from the toilet can cause irritation and worry. This strange sound, whether after flushing or just randomly, can be perplexing, and if the issue goes uninvestigated, the problem could worsen. While the most common reason behind a gurgling toilet is negative pressure along the line caused by congestion, what is the solution?
Please keep reading to learn more about line blockages and other reasons for a gurgling toilet and how to stop it.
A congested toilet
You'll be happy to know that gurgling sounds from a clogged toilet are one of the easiest problems to fix. A blocked toilet arises from items floating in the toilet bowl like bits of paper, kids' toys, or anything else that can't go down the drain. For blockages like these, you can quickly clear the floating items by removing them with a plunger.
Ensure the plunger covers the drain hole entirely, then try between 10 to 20 plunges to dislodge the items. Also, a running garden hose down the bowl can sometimes dislodge the blockage.
Calcium sedimentation
Sediment buildup in the tank can also block a toilet. A blockage is more likely when toilet water comprises elements such as iron, calcium, or magnesium. Clogs are especially prevalent when the toilet tank water is calcified. In this scenario, the gurgling noises will occur every time the tank refills following a flush.
A congested drain line or mainline
The drain lines of a property connect to the mainline of a house or apartment, and the latter transports the wastewater to the municipal primary sewer drain pipe connection. The difference between a congested drain line and a mainline obstruction is relatively straightforward. A problem caused by a blocked drain line in one property area (like the bathroom fixtures in one room) is a drain line blockage. However, a mainline blockage affects the entire property.
This problem will also manifest in other plumbing glitches, such as water backing up into the shower when the toilet is flushed. At this point, the blockage will likely be too difficult for a DIY resolution. Therefore, consider reaching out to a professional plumber.
A blockage in the vent stacks
The vent stacks release air and sewage gas from the toilet through the roof, equalizing the air pressure. A blocked vent stack will also cause negative pressure and gurgling sounds. These vents can also clog from animals building their homes on top of them, leaves, debris, or anything else that ends up inside.
No more gurgling sounds!
Strange gurgling sounds from the toilet can cause worry when the reason is unknown. The leading cause of this sound is a blockage somewhere. Sometimes the congestion could be in the toilet itself, and you can stop the gurgling by removing and dislodging the items. However, the cause may arise somewhere else in the plumbing line and requires an experienced and reliable plumber for resolution. Consider reaching out to the professional to stop that annoying gurgling sound.
Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.
