Why is my toilet bubbling when I take a shower?

The toilet bubbling phenomenon stems from something called wet venting. Plumbing codes require all drains to be vented separately to prevent pressure buildup and to vent sewer gases outside.

mrrooter.ca - Why Does my Toilet Bubble When the Bathtub Drains? | Mr. Rooter Blog

Does spraying water on concrete help it cure?

Properly curing your concrete improves strength, durability, water tightness, and resistance for many years. The first 7 days after installation...

Last updated Mar 1, 2021

What should I name my woodworking business?

1.7 Catchy Woodworking Names Accents Woodwork. Best Cabinets Carpentry Services. Brown Lumber. Big Sky Woodworking. Good View Lumber. Homestretch...

Last updated Feb 25, 2021

Promotion

When your plumbing system works the way it should, it’s easy to forget all about it. But when a problem catches your attention, the plumbing becomes all you can think about until you resolve the issue. Perhaps you’re experiencing a toilet bubbling when your shower drains. Learn more about what can cause this problem and how to fix it.

What Causes Toilet Bubbles When the Tub Drains?

The toilet bubbling phenomenon stems from something called wet venting. Plumbing codes require all drains to be vented separately to prevent pressure buildup and to vent sewer gases outside. However, when several fixtures are so close together in the bathroom, a single vent pipe may facilitate multiple drains, including the tub, sink, and toilet. When a drain or vent blockage occurs in this type of configuration, air may enter and exit through one fixture when you use another. This is what makes the toilet bubble or sink gargle when the bathtub drains. You may also notice that all the bathroom fixtures are slow to drain and the toilet flushes sluggishly when a blockage forms in a wet vented system.

How to Troubleshoot Air Bubbles in the Toilet Bowl

The clog causing air bubbles in the toilet may be minor or quite severe. To help you determine how serious the problem is, follow these troubleshooting tips.

Clear the shower drain

Remove the strainer and clean any hair and soap scum from it. Then, insert a plumbing snake into the drain. This removes obstructions a foot or two down. Plug the tub and fill it with a few inches of water. Release the plug, and as the water drains, keep an eye on the toilet. If the bubbling persists, you know the blockage is further down.

Clean further down the drain

One option is to pour drain cleaning chemicals down the shower drain, but we don’t recommend this because repeated use of chemical cleaners can deteriorate your plumbing. Plus, do you really want to send all those chemicals into the drinking water supply?

It’s better to use safe enzyme-based cleaners, baking soda, peroxide, or salt. You can also use a longer plumbing auger to reach further into the plumbing system. Of course, if the toilet is bubbling, it’s also affected, which means plunging the toilet could be useful for clearing the blockage.

Clear the vent

If your effort to clear the plumbing doesn’t work, the blockage could be located in the vent. The main vent stack should exit through the roof. Pay a visit there, and you may discover leaves or other debris blocking the vent. Remove surface debris and spray water down the vent to help clear obstructions further down. If the vent overflows, use a plumbing auger to remove stubborn clogs. Once cleared, consider installing a protective screen over the plumbing vent to prevent a repeat occurrence.

Why Call a Professional to Fix the Situation?

If these troubleshooting tips seem overwhelming, or you try them to no avail, call Mr. Rooter® Plumbing for help. Our experienced plumbers have the right tools and knowledge to fix the problem without causing further damage. We can also locate inherent problems with your plumbing, such as an uphill drain, that may be the root cause of air bubbles in the toilet bowl. For help unclogging your toilet or shower drain, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing today. Dishwasher not working right? Contact Mr. Appliance, a Neighbourly company, for your appliance repair needs.

What is better a wood or metal garage door?

Due to their lower maintenance and upkeep, steel garage doors tend to have longer lifespans and provide greater durability and stability than...

Last updated Nov 28, 2020

What is the most bought thing in the world?

What is the most sold item in the world? The most sold item in the world is clothing and fashion items. This ranges from women and men's outfits to...

Last updated Sep 20, 2018

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

What attracts snakes to your house?

Snakes enter a building because they're lured in by dark, damp, cool areas or in search of small animals, like rats and mice, for food. Snakes can...

Last updated Mar 18, 2021

How long will a pole barn last?

40-60 years In fact, it is possible that with the proper care, pole barns could last upwards of 100 years. Many builders and experts cite 40-60...

Last updated Oct 27, 2022

Promotion

How much does a shed cost Australia?

Average prices for garden sheds: Plastic Shed - Average price of $250-$500. Wooden Shed - Average price of $2000. Metal Shed - Average price of...

Last updated Sep 12, 2022

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Can you be fined for building without planning permission?

Not according to planning law. Other than in the case of unauthorised display of advertisements or works to listed buildings, carrying out building...

Last updated Jun 25, 2022