It could be a persistent running sound, strange gurgling, or mysterious banging. Toilet making noise after flushing? Read on for a simple troubleshooting guide…
If your toilet is being noisy after the normal flushing noise, this might be a worry (and annoying!). It might indicate underlying issues that need attention.
In this article, we will help you understand what causes these sounds and how to fix them. This means you can save money on plumber visits and prevent more serious problems down the line.
Skip to:
- What different toilet noises mean
- Toilet making noise after flushing: Causes
- Step-by-step troubleshooting
- When to call a professional
- Parting advice
What different toilet noises mean
What does it all mean? Let’s go through the various types of noises and pinpoint what they are:
🧏 The continuous running sound
The most frequent complaint homeowners have is a toilet that won’t stop running after flushing.
This persistent sound occurs when water continues flowing into the toilet bowl or tank long after the flush cycle should have completed. The noise typically sounds like a gentle but constant flow of water, and it can waste hundreds of gallons per day if left unaddressed.
🧏 Gurgling and bubbling noises
Gurgling sounds often indicate air trapped in the plumbing system or partial blockages in the drain line.
These noises might occur immediately after flushing or continue intermittently for several minutes. The sound resembles water draining with air pockets, similar to what you might hear when emptying a large bottle upside down.
🧏 Banging or hammering sounds
A water hammer is a sharp, banging noise that occurs when water flow stops suddenly.
In toilets, this typically happens when the fill valve shuts off quickly, causing pipes to vibrate or bang against walls or other fixtures. This sound can be quite loud and startling, especially in quiet homes at night.
🧏 Whistling or squealing noises
High-pitched whistling or squealing usually indicates worn components in the fill valve or issues with water pressure.
These sounds occur as water forces its way through narrow openings or damaged seals, creating the characteristic whistle.
Toilet making noise after flushing: Causes
Take a look at our infographic, with details on each cause below that:
🚽 Flapper problems
The rubber flapper at the bottom of your toilet tank is crucial for proper flushing function.
When this component warps, cracks, or doesn’t seat properly, water continues flowing from the tank into the bowl, creating the familiar running sound.
Over time, flappers can become warped due to chemical cleaners, age, or mineral buildup, preventing them from forming a proper seal.
🚽 Chain issues
The chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper can cause problems if it’s too long, too short, or tangled.
A chain that’s too long won’t lift the flapper completely during flushing, while one that’s too short might prevent the flapper from closing properly. Both scenarios can result in continuous water flow and associated noises.
🚽 Fill valve malfunctions
The fill valve controls water entering the tank after flushing.
When this component fails or becomes clogged with debris, it might not shut off properly, causing continuous running. Additionally, worn internal components can create whistling or squealing sounds as water passes through damaged seals or narrow openings.
🚽 Float adjustment problems
Older toilets use a float ball or newer models have a float cup that rises with water level to signal when the tank is full.
If the float is set too high, water will continue running because the fill valve never receives the signal to shut off. Conversely, if set too low, the toilet might not flush effectively, leading to repeated flushing attempts and associated noises.
🚽 Blocked drain lines
Partial blockages in the toilet drain or main sewer line can cause gurgling noises as air and water struggle to move through restricted passages.
These blockages might not completely prevent flushing but can create ongoing drainage issues and unusual sounds.
🚽 Water pressure issues
Extremely high water pressure can cause various toilet noises, including water hammer when valves close rapidly.
Municipal water systems sometimes deliver pressure that exceeds what household fixtures are designed to handle, leading to noise and potential damage.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
You might not be a plumber, but you can do something.
There are simple checks that you can make that will allow you to understand the issue. This is important – whether you call a professional or attempt to make an easy repair yourself. You can try the following:
- Initial assessment
👉 Start by removing the toilet tank lid and observing the internal components while flushing.
👉 Note when noises occur during the flush cycle and identify which parts are moving or not moving as expected.
👉 Check if water level in the tank returns to normal after flushing or continues rising or falling.
- Flapper inspection and adjustment
👉 Examine the rubber flapper for warping, cracks, or mineral buildup.
👉 Ensure it sits flat against the flush valve seat at the tank bottom.
👉 If the flapper appears damaged or warped, replacement is typically the best solution.
👉 Clean any debris or mineral deposits from both the flapper and the seat surface.
- Chain adjustment
👉 Check the chain length between the flush handle and flapper. There should be slight slack when the flapper is closed, but not so much that the flapper won’t lift completely when flushing.
👉 Adjust the chain length by moving it to different holes in the flush arm or flapper.
- Fill valve examination
👉 If the fill valve continues running, first try gently lifting the float to see if this stops the water flow.
👉 If lifting the float stops the running, the float level needs adjustment.
👉 If water continues flowing even with the float raised, the fill valve likely needs replacement.
- Float adjustment
👉 For ball float systems, carefully bend the arm to raise or lower the ball.
👉 For cup float systems, look for a adjustment screw or clip that allows you to change the float position.
👉 The water level should be about one inch below the tank rim when properly adjusted.
When to call a professional
While you can resolve some toilet noise issues can be with basic DIY repairs, certain situations require professional attention.
If you hear noises coming from inside walls or other fixtures when flushing the toilet, this might indicate problems with main plumbing lines that require specialized equipment and expertise.
Persistent gurgling that doesn’t resolve with basic troubleshooting might indicate serious blockages in main drain lines or venting issues that need professional diagnosis. Similarly, if multiple fixtures in your home make noise when you flush the toilet, this suggests system-wide plumbing problems.
Water hammer that occurs throughout your home, not just at the toilet, typically requires pressure-reducing valves or water hammer arrestors installed by licensed plumbers. These devices need proper sizing and placement to be effective.
Parting advice
Regular maintenance can prevent many toilet noise issues from developing. Clean your toilet tank components every six months, removing mineral buildup that can interfere with proper operation. Replace flappers every few years, as rubber components naturally deteriorate over time.
Avoid using drop-in tank cleaners that contain bleach or other harsh chemicals, as these can damage rubber components and accelerate wear. Instead, use gentler cleaning methods and products specifically designed for toilet maintenance.
Monitor your home’s water pressure and consider installing a pressure-reducing valve if readings consistently exceed 80 PSI. High water pressure not only causes noise but can also damage fixtures and appliances throughout your home.
Looking for a quieter toilet? Read our guide to the best silent flush toilets
