Skip to main content
Plumbing Blog

Toilet Problems: What’s that Sound?

By July 10, 2017August 21st, 2020No Comments

You haven’t lived until you have been awoken by the sound of a strange noise emanating from the toilet in the middle of the night. It has probably been there for weeks, but now, when you’re desperately trying to get back to sleep, it seems like the loudest sound in the world.

Can you wait until tomorrow morning to call for an emergency plumbing repair? Well, that depends on the nature of the noise.

Whistling Dixie

If the sound you hear is a distinct whistling sound, rather like when the kettle reaches a boil, the problem is most likely excessive water pressure. While owners of older homes may be jealous, this is a problem that will require a visit from the plumber. However, if you can sleep through it, you can safely leave it until the morning.

Tiny Gurgles

If you’re wondering if that sound was your partner’s stomach or the toilet down the hall, it means there is very likely a clog in your toilet. You may be able to dislodge it with a plunger in the morning successfully, but if not, be sure to call a plumber for help and review our guide to avoid clogged drains for the future. This is not generally considered a plumbing emergency, but try to avoid flushing until the clog has been removed.

Humming a Tune

Pay attention to the time when the toilet is making noise. Is it right after it has been flushed? Maybe it’s a few minutes later when the tank has filled, but the flap doesn’t close all the way. In either case, toilet parts are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace in a DIY repair. From valves to float balls, you can replace these items yourself. But, if you’d rather not, you can place one call to Rite Tech Plumbing and we will be only too happy to help. However, take notes on the time and nature of the sound; it will help us quickly and easily diagnose the problem.

Rite Tech Plumbing is here to help you avoid an emergency plumbing repair. By learning about the more common plumbing issues around the house on our Kelowna plumbing blog, you can save yourself a lot of time and heartache! But, if you do need a plumber in a hurry, you can always reach us at (250) 681-0089. Contact us today!