Whenever your toilet either bubbles or gurgles, it is the direct result of abnormal suction buildup in the line. This causes air to push back, which creates the bubbling sensation. Let’s take a look at what causes a toilet to bubble and how homeowners can fix this issue.
Most Common Reasons Why A Toilet Is Bubbling
Below are the five of the most likely culprits behind a bubbling or gurgling toilet.
Clogged Toilet
Whether it’s tissues, paper towels, or feminine products, we’ve all experienced a clogged toilet at some point. Even “flushable” wipes can cause a toilet to clog. If the clog appears to be close to the surface, a plunger and sewer snake can fix the issue.
Solution:
- Start by sealing off any other fixtures that are in the bathroom like a sink, shower, or tub.
- Seal them with duct tape prior to plunging your toilet.
- This keeps pressure from escaping and ultimately allows it to clear the drain line.
- If the clog is quite close to the surface, 10-15 pumping motions should release it.
- A manual or mechanized sewer snake can be used for tougher clogs.
Blocked Vent Stack
The vent stack is a vertical pipe that leads to your roof. Its main responsibility is to control the plumbing air pressure and to release exhaust gas. If the stack becomes closed, sealed, or blocked, it can cause the toilet to bubble.
A gassy odor present in the house could also be sign of a vent stack issue.
Solution:
- The most common vent blockage is the result of birds building nests.
- Other small animals or leaves can cause buildup in the vent, which undoubtedly hinders the part from doing its job.
Clogged Mainline
The mainlines takes all the wastewater from your fixtures to the city connection. If the clog impacts your entire home, then a clogged mainline is the most likely culprit.
Solution:
- The mainline is very difficult to access.
- Reach out to the professionals in your area for any repair or replacement questions.
Damaged Or Clogged City Connection
If this is the source of the issue, then the bubbling is out of your control. This problem has to be handled by a utility company or city municipal department. If your toilet is bubbling or gurgling, it’s best to check your water provider and report the issue as soon as possible.
Solution:
- As mentioned, this issue must be fixed by a utility company or city municipal department.
Failing Cistern
Inside the cistern, there is a flapper that is needed for flushing and refilling your tank with clean water. Visually check to see if the flapper appears damaged or faulty. It could be preventing the water from draining.
Solution:
- If your flapper is faulty, completely replacing the part could fix the problem.
- However, if the whole cistern mechanism is to blame, it must be completely replaced.
Get Portable Luxury Restroom Quotes
Call Royal Restrooms today and up the ante at your event with the absolute top of the line in luxury portable restrooms that are head and shoulders above the rest. We honestly will take your special events to the next level. Give us a call at (480)734-9809 today!
