Why Is My Toilet Gurgling? March 6, 2025

A gurgling toilet can be unsettling. One minute, everything seems fine, and the next, your toilet sounds like it’s trying to talk back. Whether it’s toilet bubbling, slow drainage, or strange noises, these are signs that something isn’t quite right.

At WeCo Rooter, we’ve seen it all — from minor drain blockages to full-blown sewer backups. So if your toilet gurgles when flushed, don’t ignore it. Let’s dive into what causes toilet gurgling, how to fix it, and when it’s time to call a pro.

Common Causes of a Gurgling Toilet

If your toilet is making strange noises, one of these common issues is likely to blame.

1. A Partial or Full Drain Clog

The most common cause of a gurgling toilet is a blockage in the drain. When water tries to flow past a clog, it creates air pockets, leading to that bubbling or gurgling sound.

Signs of a clog:

• Water drains slowly from the toilet or nearby sinks
• Gurgling happens after flushing
• Water backs up into the shower or tub

2. A Blocked Vent Pipe

Your plumbing system has vent pipes that allow air to flow in and prevent negative pressure. If one of these pipes is clogged with leaves, debris, or even a bird’s nest, air cannot escape properly, causing your toilet to gurgle.

How to tell if a vent pipe is clogged:

• Multiple drains in your home are affected
• Gurgling sounds come from sinks or tubs
• A sewer smell is present near the roof vent

3. Sewer Line Problems

A gurgling toilet could indicate an issue with your main sewer line. This is a bigger problem that can lead to wastewater backing up into your home if left unchecked.

Warning signs of a sewer line issue:

• Gurgling in multiple toilets
• Water bubbling in drains
• Unpleasant sewage odors in the yard

4. Septic Tank Issues (For Homes on Septic Systems)

If your home is on a septic system, gurgling could be a sign that your septic tank is full or failing.

Signs of septic trouble:

• Slow draining sinks, tubs, and toilets
• Standing water near the drain field
• Foul odors coming from outside

Schedule a drain inspection with WeCo Rooter today to determine the cause of your gurgling toilet.

Can a Gurgling Toilet Fix Itself?

Unfortunately, no. A toilet gurgling will not resolve on its own. In fact, ignoring it can lead to bigger plumbing problems, including toilet backups or water damage.

• If it’s a minor clog, a plunger might help.
• If the issue is in the vent pipe or sewer line, professional help is needed.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to get your plumbing checked before it turns into a costly repair.

Is a Gurgling Toilet Dangerous?

A gurgling toilet isn’t just an annoyance — it can indicate serious plumbing problems. Here’s why you should not ignore it.

Potential risks of a gurgling toilet:

• Sewage Backups – If the main line is clogged, raw sewage could back up into your home.
• Drain Damage – Pressure buildup can put strain on your pipes, leading to leaks.
• Bacterial Growth – If wastewater is not draining properly, harmful bacteria can spread.

Toilet Gurgling But Not Clogged: What’s Going On?

If you have checked for clogs but your toilet is still making noise, you might be dealing with:

• Blocked vent pipes – Prevents air from flowing properly, causing suction issues.
• Partial sewer line blockage – A clog deeper in the system may allow some water to pass but still cause air bubbles.
• Septic tank nearing capacity – If your home is on a septic system, it might be full.

If you are unsure what’s happening, a professional drain inspection can pinpoint the issue. Schedule an appointment with WeCo Rooter today.

How to Stop Toilet Gurgling in 5 Simple Steps

Before calling a plumber, try these solutions.

Step 1: Try the Plunger Method

• Use a flange plunger (designed for toilets) to create a tight seal.
• Plunge firmly for about 30 seconds to dislodge minor blockages.

Step 2: Use a Drain Snake

• Insert a drain snake (or toilet auger) into the bowl.
• Slowly twist and push to break up blockages in the drain line.

Step 3: Check the Vent Pipe

• If comfortable, use a ladder to inspect the roof vent.
• Clear debris like leaves or bird nests that may be blocking airflow.

Step 4: Inspect Other Drains

• Run water in sinks, tubs, and showers.
• If they also gurgle, the issue is likely deeper in the system.

Step 5: Call a Professional Plumber

• If the problem persists, professional help is needed.
• A plumber can use cameras and hydro jetting to clear stubborn clogs.

Still hearing gurgling? WeCo Rooter can diagnose and fix the problem fast.

Don’t Ignore a Gurgling Toilet — Call WeCo for Plumbing Maintenance

A gurgling toilet without an obvious clog is a sign of a deeper plumbing issue. Blocked vent pipes, partial sewer line clogs, or an overfilled septic tank can all disrupt airflow and cause bubbling, slow drainage, and backups. Left unchecked, these small warning signs can turn into costly plumbing emergencies.

Don’t wait for a bigger mess. If your toilet won’t stop gurgling, let WeCo Rooter pinpoint the problem and fix it before it gets worse. Schedule a professional drain cleaning or call 803-999-WECO (9326) to get your plumbing back to normal ASAP!