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Noisy Toilet: Cistern, Flush and Pipe Sounds

A noisy toilet can make different sounds while it fills, flushes or stops running. Noting when the noise happens can help you describe the problem to a plumber. The original illustrations below show three parts of a typical toilet system.

While the cistern fills

Original illustration of a toilet cistern filling with water

The cistern stores the water used for the next flush. Listen for whether the sound happens throughout filling or just as the water stops. Make a note of any new hissing, whistling or humming, and whether water continues running after the cistern has filled.

During the flush

Original illustration of flushing water and a toilet trap

Flushing moves water from the cistern into the bowl and through the waste outlet. Tell your plumber if you hear unusual gurgling, if the bowl empties slowly, or if the water level behaves differently from normal.

Sounds from the pipes

Original illustration of a water pipe, pipe clips and vibration

Sometimes the sound seems to come from nearby pipework. Note where you hear it, whether it is a rattle or a knock, and whether it happens as the toilet starts or finishes filling. These details can help a plumber decide what to inspect.

For help with a persistent noise, contact a plumber and describe when it occurs.