Toilet Gurgles when I do Laundry: Here’s what’s Going on

As someone with over 10 years of maintenance experience and having dealt with hundreds of toilets, I’ve encountered various plumbing issues that can be both puzzling and frustrating.

One such issue is when the toilet gurgles while doing laundry.

It’s not an uncommon problem, and understanding the possible causes can help homeowners like you troubleshoot and resolve the issue efficiently.

In this article, I’ll delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon, explain how your toilet and laundry plumbing systems are interconnected, and offer practical solutions to eliminate the gurgling noise. So, let’s dive right in and explore what’s causing this and what you can do to fix it!

Causes of a Gurgling Toilet During Laundry

Improperly Vented Plumbing System

One of the primary reasons why your toilet might gurgle when you do laundry is an improperly vented plumbing system. Vents are crucial in maintaining proper air pressure within the drainage system. When I first started doing plumbing jobs many, many years ago, I had no idea that the plumbing vent played such an essential role. If the vent is blocked or improperly installed, it can cause negative pressure in the pipes, leading to the gurgling sound in your toilet.

How to Fix: To resolve this issue, you’ll need to inspect your plumbing vents. Ensure that they are clear of any obstructions, such as leaves, bird nests, or other debris. If the problem persists, it’s best to consult a professional plumber or trusted handyman to inspect and repair the vent system if necessary.

image showing the roof vent for both the toilet and the washing machine, which if obstructed, can cause gurgling in the toilet as the washer drains.

Partially Clogged Drain Line

Another common reason for a gurgling toilet during laundry is a partially clogged drain line. When your washing machine drains water, it may cause water to back up in the pipes due to the obstruction. Consequently, air bubbles get trapped, producing the gurgling sound in your toilet. I’ve faced this issue before, and trust me, it’s not something you want to ignore.

How to Fix: To address this issue, you can try using a drain snake or a plunger to clear the blockage. Alternatively, you can use a product like Drano, but I have always steered clear of products like that since I’ve always had a septic system. I don’t care what they claim, I don’t want to take the chance that it will destroy the microbiome in the septic. If the problem persists beyond using the snake, it’s best to call a professional plumber or handyman for assistance.

image showing how a clogged drain line can cause a gurgling toilet when the washing machine drains. — If your main drain line is clogged, it can force air backward in the lines as pressure builds, and that water can escape through your toilet which will cause a gurgling noise.

Inadequate Drain Pipe Size

Sometimes, the gurgling sound in your toilet during laundry is due to an inadequate drain pipe size. If the pipes are too small, they may not be able to handle the volume of water being discharged from your washing machine, leading to a backup and gurgling noises. This issue can be challenging to diagnose without professional help.

How to Fix: If you suspect that your drain pipe size is the issue, it’s best to consult a plumber. They can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate pipe size for your plumbing system.

Poorly Designed Plumbing System

Lastly, a poorly designed plumbing system could be the cause of your toilet gurgling when you do laundry. If the drain lines are not appropriately sloped or if there are too many turns and bends, it may impede the flow of water and air, causing the gurgling sound. I had a friend who faced this issue, and it turned out that the plumbing system had been poorly designed from the start.

How to Fix: If you believe that your plumbing system’s design is causing the issue, you’ll need to consult a professional plumber. They can assess the problem and suggest the necessary modifications to ensure that your plumbing system functions efficiently.

Preventing Future Toilet Gurgle Issues

To prevent future gurgling issues with your toilet, consider the following tips:

Schedule regular plumbing maintenance to ensure that your vents and drain lines are clear and functioning properly.
Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, as foreign objects can cause clogs and lead to gurgling.
Be cautious with what you pour down your drains, as grease, food particles, and other debris can accumulate and cause blockages over time.
Regularly clean your washing machine’s lint trap to prevent lint buildup, which can contribute to clogs in the drain line.
If you’re planning any major renovations, consult with a professional plumber to ensure that your plumbing system is designed and installed correctly.

Key Takeaways

A gurgling toilet when you do laundry can be caused by various factors, such as an improperly vented plumbing system, a partially clogged drain line, inadequate drain pipe size, or a poorly designed plumbing system.

By identifying the cause and taking the appropriate steps to fix the issue, you can prevent the gurgling sound and ensure your plumbing system functions efficiently. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber or trusted handyman if you’re unsure about the cause or need assistance with repairs.

Remember, a well-functioning plumbing system is crucial for the comfort and safety of your home.