Why Is My Toilet Bubbling When the Shower Is Running?
Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? This plumbing mishap is more common than you think.
As Tucson’s toilet repairs and installation experts, our team at Al Coronado Plumbing explains why this happens and what you can do to fix it. Call us at (520) 834-8400 when you need help with a bubbling toilet.
Plumbing Basics
The plumbing system in your home consists of water feed pipes, waste drain pipes, and a gas and air plumbing vent. These components rely on a balance of gravity, air pressure, and water pressure to work properly.
Your home’s pipes provide your plumbing fixtures with both an inflow and outflow of water. Problems within the system will manifest in your toilet, sinks, showers, and other plumbing fixtures. If the water inflow pipe leading to your bathroom has an issue, you might notice signs of a problem in both your shower and toilet.
Why Is My Toilet Bubbling When the Shower Is Running?
A bubbling toilet means that there is a problem somewhere in your waste drain line. Your toilet may make gurgling sounds when your shower runs because these fixtures drain and vent through one line, also known as wet venting.
The blockage can either be in your drain or the vent stack. Clogged drain lines can force negative air pressure back up the system and release through your toilet. They can also create a vacuum effect, which can suck air down through your toilet’s P-tap, resulting in a gurgling noise.
A blockage in your vent stack traps air within your pipes. Vents release air from your plumbing system, so when this isn’t possible, the air must travel through another pathway. In this instance, air pressure makes its way from your vent stack to your toilet’s drain and bubbles out.
How to Fix a Bubbling Toilet
To fix a bubbling toilet, you have to remove the blockage in your plumbing system. Depending on where the clog is, you may not be able to solve the problem on your own.
If your vent stack is the source of the blockage, you’ll need to inspect the rooftop vent and remove any visible leaves or debris in it. If the clog is further down, let a plumbing professional inspect the area.
Similarly, a clog within your drain lines can be complex to remove. Call an expert to take care of any clogs. Only professional plumbers have the skills to remove the clog without creating further damage to the system.
Consider a Toilet Upgrade
Residential toilet water usage accounts for 30% of homeowners’ water bills. In addition to troubleshooting any clogs in your plumbing system, you may want to consider upgrading your toilet to mitigate future problems.
Call Professional Plumbers for Toilet Issues
If you find yourself wondering, “why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running,” it’s time to bring in a professional plumber. At Al Coronado Plumbing, we can explain the types of toilet flush systems available, their benefits, and if upgrading is a smart choice for your home. Contact Al Coronado Plumbing at (520) 834-8400 to schedule an emergency service.