Why Is My Toilet Flush So Loud?

Toilet flushes can be loud for multiple reasons. It can be hard to know where that loud whining sound is coming from or what’s causing it, but we’re here to help! In this blog, we discuss some of the reasons why your toilet could be having some problems along with some tips on how to fix them.

We’ve created a fun infographic that lays out the problems and how to fix it! Check it out and download it for future reference. After that, keep reading as we go into more detail on the subject. Let’s get started!

The four most common types of toilet flushing systems:

• Pressure-assisted flush
• Gravity flush
• Double cyclone
• Dual flush

It’s important to know which system you have to best treat the problem. Pressure-assisted are powerful flushing systems that use pressurized air to force water into the bowl. They’re very commonly used in public bathrooms. Gravity flush toilet systems are the oldest yet most popular system in the market. They work with the force of gravity on the water and have no mechanical assistance of any kind. These systems are popular in residential homes.

The other two systems are the Double cyclone and the dual flush systems which are the newest and latest toilet flush systems. Double cyclone toilet systems are very common to gravity flush systems. They use two nozzles supported by a propulsion system. This allows more water to flow to pass through the tube and produces a more powerful siphoning action for a much more efficient flush. The dual flush system is great for those who want to choose between a partial and a full flush which can help save water.

Now that we know more about the most common toilet flushing systems, it’s time to learn more about what’s causing your toilet to make those weird sounds.

Refill Water Hitting Pipe or Tank

Is refill water spraying straight down the overflow pipe, resonating on the bottom of the overflow pipe? This might mean that the angle adapter is pointing straight down the overflow pipe. The way to fix this is by bending or tilting the angle adapter so that the refill water is hitting the inside wall of the overflow pipe. When you do this, the refill process should be much quieter.

Restricted Water Supply Valve

Sometimes the water supply valve can get restricted making a loud noise. To fix this, adjust the shut-off valve counterclockwise to open up the water flow. If the noise still occurs, professional help may be necessary.

Plugged Valve Inlet

Another problem that can cause loud toilet noises is a plugged valve inlet or stiff seal. There are six steps to fix this problem:

1. Turn off water supply and flush the tank
2. Reach inside the tank with your right hand under the float cup and lift it up. With your right hand holding onto the gray shaft, keep the float cup all the way up. Do not let the float cup drop or valve shaft turn.
3. Place your left hand on the top of the valve cap while the left hand thumb on the side of the arm coming out of the top. Turn the cap and lever counterclockwise 1/8th of a turn to unlock. You should be able to lift off the cap and lever from the valve body.
4. Once the cap assembly has been removed, inspect for debri on the seal (rubber disc with pin coming through) and also the portion still in the tank.
5. Hold a cup upside down over the exposed opening of the valve and turn on the water supply full force for 10-15 seconds, allowing the pressure to free any debris inside the valve inlet.
6. Reassemble the top of the valve by placing the cap arm next to the refill tube. Press cap down while turning the cap and arm clockwise to lock.

Get Help From Shamrock Plumbing

Have you tried your own skills to get rid of the loud noise and it’s not working? It might be time to contact a professional for help! We, at Shamrock Plumbing, offer general plumbing repair services as well as installing services if you happen to need or want a brand new toilet. Call us at (801) 658-3042 or schedule an appointment online.