When my washing machine drains, I get 2-3 bursts of air (and some soapy water) in my 1st floor toilet.?

Question

The washer in the basement and the toilet are very close and both about 2 ft from the main drain line. Is this a venting problem? A blockage problem (the toilet drains fine otherwise)? What is the best course of action? Can I ignore it?

Answer 1

Do not ignore this problem, it will only get worse. As some of the others have said, you probably have a partial blockage in the drain line, and possibly a reduction in venting. I would have the drain cleaned by a licensed plumber or a roto-rooter type service. The only other cause I can think of is if the washing machine drain was added at a later date, and the wrong fittings were used to hook the washing machine drain into the main drain, and that is causing a back flow into the toilet.

Answer 2

It is probably a venting problem. Usually, washing machines have a hose into the top of the drain that may drag air with it. In any case, the water is ramming into the standing water in the drain before the vent and shouldn't be doing it. The first fix is to go up on the roof with a rod or pole to check for nests or blockages like a dead bird or rat. Then the sewer needs checked for blockages.

Answer 3

I would say you have a partial blockage in the drain line after the toilet. Washing machines push a lot of water out, very quickly. The partial clog is slowing down the flow and causing it to back up. Caustic drain cleaners don't work in partial clogs. They just flow down the easiest opening and are gone. Try an enzyme drain cleaner such as DrainCare by Zep. Enzyme cleaners stick to an organic clog ( not tree roots) and eat it. Also safe for all drain systems including septics. Read and follow the label directions for best results.

Answer 4

I had a similar problem and found out that the drain pipe was getting enough grime and dirt build up that the flow was constricted. Drain O and other drainage liquid block removers from the store did not cut it. I ended up calling roto rooter which came out and used a drilling snake to clean the interior of the pipe back to its original size. Also make sure that your air vent is not being blocked. If a bird or something made a nest in the air vent then it will not allow sufficient air flow to allow proper drainage and make air escape through other sources like the toilet.

Answer 5

Your drain can't handle the amount of water your washer is pumping out all to once so it backs up into other drains,not a problem and it backwashes the other drain and keeps it cleaner

Answer 6

It sounds like a venting problem, I would ignor it as long as everything drains okay.

Answer 7

I think maybe you should call and ask someone in the plumbing dept. at home depot or lowes, there maybe some type of clog or something causing it. Explain to them, they ought to be able to help you.

Answer 8

call a plumber.