Plumbing Question 397

Question: Lately, the water in the bathtub/shower is taking longer to drain. It finally does, but then I can hear a “thump…thump..thump..” like the water is draining in big air bubbles almost.
It is a older house that I have lived in for about 4 months, but have never had the problem before. Whenever this slow drainage and “thump” draining starts it seems like we lose water pressure in the toilet as well. (It will flush but not use as much water and is slow to fill or doesn’t fill up the whole way).
What do you think it may be and what can I do to fix the problem? Thanks!

Answer: The drain and toilet issues are separate from one another(Coincidence more likely.) I think you nailed it on the head by stating that this an “older house.” The “thump…thump..thump..” indicates to me that it might be a vent issue. A clogged vent is like holding your finger over the end of a straw and holding in the liquid. It also could be a large amount of hair and gunk in the tub drain.
Start by cleaning the drain. The average home owner uses liquid clog remover.(Take it easy with this stuff if you have a septic tank) The “DIY, adventurous homeowner” removes the drain cover and fishes the hair and gunk out of the drain manually.
If this doesn’t resolve the issue, See my first hunch; a clogged vent. Clogged vents can be tricky. “Average homeowner” calls a qualified drain specialist (Plumber.) “DIY homeowner” goes up on roof and attempts to tackle the clog from there. Vent stacks can be unclogged using a snake.

Now, about your toilet issue. Most likely, the “Fill Valve” (Valve closest to the flush handle) is old and clogged. My recommendation: Install a new Fill valve. While your at it, chances are the flapper is also worn and tired. You might as well replace that as long as your hands are going to be wet anyway.