Why Is My Toilet Bubbling When the Shower Is Running? What Broken Arrow, OK, Residents Must Know

Do you hear ominous noises from your porcelain throne while taking your shower? It doesn’t just ruin the serene ambiance of your routine; it might also signal the prelude to a plumbing catastrophe waiting to dunk your day into chaos. 

As a trusted provider of top plumbing in Broken Arrow, OK, we at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric have helped many households address this unusual issue. Keep reading as we discuss the most common culprits.

Blocked Vent Pipe

Vent pipes play a crucial role in your plumbing system. They allow air to enter, which helps maintain the optimal pressure for a smooth and continuous water flow. Unfortunately, the openings can become obstructed by debris like leaves, nests, or even snow. 

The side effect? Whenever you take a shower and the water runs down the drain, it creates a negative net pressure in the system. It will try to equalize the pressure by pulling air from wherever it can get it, which sometimes means your toilet.

The Fix:

Since most vent pipes sit high up on the roof, you should probably leave the cleanup to a professional. Climbing up your Broken Arrow home can prove tricky and downright dangerous without the right skills or equipment. 

If you have safe and easy access, clear any visible debris and give the opening a good once-over for possible cracks or damage.

Sewer Line Trouble

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? While rare, the source of your unpleasant bathroom symphony might come from deep within the sewer line. A blockage in the system, whether from tree roots, compromised pipework, or debris, can make your toilet bubble.

It’s difficult to confirm this problem without specialized equipment. Keep an eye out for symptoms like water pooling around floor drains, multiple fixture issues, and sewage backups.

The Fix:

Book a professional assessment immediately. The longer you wait to address a compromised sewage system, the more complicated and expensive the fix can become. 

A certified plumber can use long, flexible cameras to pinpoint the blockage or damage. From there, they’ll offer the most effective solution, which might include hydrojetting to clear the obstruction or trenchless sewer repair. 

Drain Pipe Clog

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? You might have a clogged drain pipe. 

Over time, hair, soap residue, and other gunk can create obstructions. The impeded flow of water causes bubbles to form in the pipework, and some can escape through your toilet’s trapway. 

An even more unpleasant scenario is when this buildup becomes so bad that it creates smelly backups. The last thing you want is your bathroom smelling like a sewer during your morning shower.

The Fix:

You should first locate which drain or fixture has the clog. Look for common indicators like sluggish drainage or off odors near the opening. Once identified, you’ll need a damp rag, a plunger, and a screwdriver if the drain in question has a cover.

Follow these steps:

• Remove the screen with the correct screwdriver.
• Position your plunger over the opening.
• If it’s a bathtub, hold a damp rag on the overflow drain.
• Plunge vigorously 10 to 15 times on the floor drain.
• Pour hot water down the drain. 

If the clog persists, repeat several times before calling a Broken Arrow plumber. They will utilize drum augers to break down tougher blockages beyond the reach of your average household tools. 

Shower and Toilet Maintenance Tips in Broken Arrow, OK

Take a proactive approach to your Broken Arrow home’s plumbing health. Easy but impactful steps you can take include:

• Install drain guards: Putting screens over your sinks, showers, and bathtubs can prevent blockages down the line. 
• Flush responsibly: Your toilet drain should only deal with human waste and toilet paper—other items like cotton balls, wipes, and sanitary products might clog it.
• Refresh your drains: Every so often, pour some gentle cleaner or a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and hot water into your drains. This can help keep them flowing freely.
• Trim overhanging branches: Do you see branches looming over your roof? Prune them before the debris clogs your vent pipes.

Your Go-To Toilet and Shower Specialists in Broken Arrow, OK

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running? Instead of troubleshooting alone and getting your whole bathroom in a mess, why not call Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric? Our crew is available 24/7 for your convenience and peace of mind.

Dial 918-393-4577 or read more of our blog and learn about common heating problems and the best way to avoid them.