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-   -   Why does the water in the toilet drain and move around during a wind storm? (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=443638)

  • Feb 5, 2010, 06:20 PM
    sjhole
    Why does the water in the toilet drain and move around during a wind storm?
    Hi,
    When the wind is blowing very strong outside, the water in the toilet sucks up and down and eventually slurps because there is very little water left. Why does this happen?
  • Feb 5, 2010, 06:48 PM
    letmetellu

    Seeing the water in the commode move as the wind is blowing is not an unusual thing but for it to move enough for the water to suck out of the trap.

    Where the vent for the commode comes out of the roof is it close to another building? Or to a higher part of your roof?

    Some times the wind hitting the other wall can raise the pressure in that area and therefore make the water move. Also the wind blowing across the peak of the roof can cause an air pressure drop and there again make the mater move.

    None of these things should make the water almost completely be pulled out of the commode.
  • Feb 6, 2010, 07:11 AM
    speedball1
    1 Attachment(s)
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by sjhole View Post
    Hi,
    When the wind is blowing very strong outside, the water in the toilet sucks up and down and eventually slurps because there is very little water left. Why does this happen?

    Letmetellu's bang on with his answer. The wind blowing over your vent creates a suction. This will cause the water in the bowl to bounce up and down. If the wind is strong enough it could start a siphon action that would lower the bowl level.
    To prevent this from happening purchase vent caps (see image) for your roof vents. Good luck, Tom
  • Feb 6, 2010, 08:36 AM
    sjhole
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by speedball1 View Post
    Letmetellu's bang on with his answer. The wind blowing over your vent creates a suction. This will cause the water in the bowl to bounce up and down. If the wind is strong enough it could start a a siphon action that would lower the bowl level.
    To prevent this from happening purchase vent caps (see image) for your roof vents. good luck, Tom

    Thanks Tom! You've answered my question! And that makes sense. I will be looking for a vent cap! Thanks again!

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