Most toilets make a certain amount of noise, and for the most part, this is something we’re all used to. If your toilet runs, this can be a nuisance worth dealing with, but it would be far stranger to use a toilet that made no noise after you flushed it. But what about those noises we’re not so used to? Sometimes, your toilet will emit a strange sound that’s harmless enough, but other times, an unusual noise can indicate that you’ve got a problem on your hands. Keep reading to learn the top three toilet sounds to watch out for, and make sure to call our skilled and experienced plumbers at Smith’s Plumbing Services for toilet issues and more.
The Top 3 Toilet Sounds to Watch Out for Are:
- A Foghorn Noise: Does your toilet sound like a ship coming into the harbor? Kind of alarming, right? If your toilet is making a foghorn noise, it could be because of a loose washer inside the “float”—a black, ballock-style valve that is common on older units. Lift the tank lid and flush your toilet while holding up the float, and if the foghorn noise goes away, you’ve located the problem. While this noise is a nuisance, it can be dealt with easily enough by taking apart the float and finding the loose valve, or calling a plumber to replace the component for you.
- A Persistent Hissing Sound: While it is common to hear a little bit of hissing as your toilet tank refills, continuous hissing can be a sign you’ve got a problem. The sound could be caused by a worn-out flap, because when this part starts to break down with age, it may no longer be able to create a seal. This causes water to go into the bowl, letting the tank refill continuously. Broken flaps can lead to a major waste of water, so if this is what’s causing that hissing noise, make sure to call a plumber or replace the part yourself. You could also be dealing with another float problem, in which case you should check to see if your float is rising higher than the overflow tube. If it is, use the clip on the side to move it down several inches. This should position the float on top of the overflow tube, preventing continuous refilling and stopping the hissing sound. If that doesn’t work, call a licensed plumber ASAP.
- Gurgling or Bubbling: Gurgling or bubbling coming from your toilet usually indicates that there is negative air pressure built up somewhere in the drain line, usually from a clog. When that pressure releases, it will cause the gurgling or bubbling sound you hear in your toilet bowl. To get rid of airlocks, like this first you will have to get rid of the blockage, which means using a plunger or drain snake, and if that doesn’t work, calling an experienced plumber. Remember, gurgling/bubbling can indicate everything from toilet paper clogs to tree root obstructions, which may lead to backups in your sink or bathtub, so it’s important to act right away if you hear these sounds coming from your toilet
To reach Smith’s Plumbing Services, call (901) 290-1110 now, or click here to request an appointment online.