Common Causes Of Toilet Gurgling & How To Fix It
Have you ever heard your toilet make a strange bubbling or gurgling sound? You're not alone. Whether your toilet makes noises randomly or right after you flush, toilet gurgling isn't just an off-putting quirk — it's a common indication that something's not quite right with your plumbing or septic system. Below, Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service breaks down the most common reasons why your toilet might be gurgling and what you can do to fix it.
For more than 30 years, Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service has been the company home and business owners in Gainesville, FL, have called for their septic service needs. Contact our septic company today to request service!
Toilet Clogs: A Quick & Easy Fix
A simple clog is one of the most common causes of a gurgling or bubbling toilet. Fortunately, it's also one of the most straightforward problems to fix. When waste or other debris partially obstructs your toilet drain, it can create pockets of air within your drain that cause the water to gurgle or bubble as it struggles to flow. To prevent clogged toilets, avoid flushing items such as paper towels, wet wipes, or feminine hygiene products, as they're notorious for causing blockages. Generally, clearing the toilet clog with a plunger or drain snake should resolve this problem. However, if the clog persists and the gurgling noise continues, it may be time to call a plumber for professional assistance.
Blocked Vent Pipe: Restore Airflow To Stop The Noise
Vent pipes extend from your home's roof and are designed to release exhaust gas from decomposing waste. They allow air to escape safely and prevent pressure from building up in your system. When a vent pipe becomes blocked, the airflow is restricted, and pressure can no longer escape the drain line, which may cause your toilet to bubble or make gurgling noises. Obstructed vent pipes are a fairly common problem, especially after storms or during cold winter months. Resolving this problem may require inspecting your roof for visible blockages and using either a hose or plumbing snake to remove the clog. For your safety and convenience, leaving stubborn blockages in hard-to-reach areas to licensed and insured professionals may be best.
Main Sewer Drain Line Blockage: Clear The Pipes
A blockage in your main drain line could cause more than just your toilet to behave strangely. This tends to be a more serious problem because a drain line blockage can affect multiple fixtures in your home, such as sinks, showers, and toilets. As water and waste struggle to pass through an obstructed drain line, air bubbles are back into the system, causing gurgling noises. If you notice slow drainage or gurgling in multiple fixtures throughout your home, it's a sign your main drain line needs attention. Drain cleaners may temporarily relieve this problem but are not long-term solutions. Professional drain cleaning services are often necessary to clear the pipes and restore proper flow.
Full Septic Tank: Time For A Clean-Out
In homes with septic systems, a gurgling toilet may indicate that the tank is full and needs to be pumped. When a septic tank reaches full capacity, waste has nowhere to go, and air bubbles can back up into the plumbing system, creating gurgling noises. In addition to toilet bubbling, other signs of a full septic tank include slow drains, unpleasant odors around your tank or drains, and sewage backups. Routine septic maintenance every three to five years is essential to preventing these issues and ensuring your system continues to operate smoothly!
Call Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service Today!
If you suspect your septic tank is full, don't hesitate to contact Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service! Our professional septic tank pumping services ensure your system is properly maintained, preventing unexpected backups, unwanted odors, toilet gurgling, and costly damage. With decades of experience as Gainesville's trusted septic tank experts, we provide fast, reliable, and effective septic system solutions tailored to your unique needs. Contact our septic tank company today to learn more or schedule service!