Decoding Toilet Sounds 🔊🚽

Toilets make noise. And it’s safe to say that we’re all used to the the usual ones made in our own homes. But what about the noises that are unfamiliar?  Paying attention to your toilet’s sounds provide valuable insights into how its functioning. Some are harmless but some can indicate a bigger problem. Here are the top (good and bad) toilet sounds to watch out for and when to recruit your favorite and experienced local plumber to deal with the problem:

The Gentle Gurgle A soft gurgling sound as the water swirls down the drain is usually harmless and indicates a well-functioning toilet. This gentle noise is simply the water moving through the pipes and is a sign that everything is flowing smoothly. But! A persistent gurgling or bubbling usually indicates that there is negative air pressure built up somewhere in the drain line, usually from a clog. A good reason to give a licensed plumber a ring.

The Dripping Drip Drip Drip If you hear a persistent dripping sound, it warrants an investigation. A dripping, leaky toilet can waste a significant amount of water, inflate your water bill and cause bigger scale plumbing issues in the home. The culprit may be a faulty flapper or a worn-out seal. Addressing these issues promptly can save both water and money.

The Phantom Flush The mysterious occurrence known as a “phantom flush” (a sudden unexplained flush when no one’s was there to flush) may be a sign of a leaking flapper valve. Replacing the flapper can put an end to these unexpected flushes and prevent water wastage.

The Hisssssss While it is common to hear a little but of hissing as your toilet tank refills, continuous hissing warrants further investigation. A hissing sound can be indicative of a problem with the toilet’s fill valve. This valve controls the water level in the tank and may be malfunctioning, causing water to constantly flow into the bowl. The sound could also be a sign that the the toilet has a worn-out flap. Either way, give your plumber a call for this one.

The Rumble: A deep rumbling noise when the toilet is flushed could be a sign of a blockage in the drain or sewer line. This is a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring it may lead to backups and potential damage to your plumbing system. A professional plumber can diagnose and address the problem.