An overflowing toilet is the last thing you want to wake up or come home to after a long day’s work. The wastewater’s filth and stench alone can easily turn your stomach upside down. However, the bigger concern lies in the potential costly water damage and repairs if you can’t resolve the problem on time.
But there’s no need to stress just yet! There are some immediate steps you can take to get the situation under control and minimize the mess. Here’s an expert guide from Formula Plumbing Services on what to do when your toilet starts overflowing.
1. Turn Off The Water Supply
The first thing you want to do is stop more water from pouring into the toilet. You can do this by turning off the water supply valve, which is usually located behind the toilet near the base. Simply twist the valve clockwise to close it and stop more water from potentially causing more mess and filth. This will prevent the toilet tank from filling up and overflowing further.
2. Try to Clear the Clog
If you’re comfortable doing so, try to clear the clog yourself. You can use a plunger to break up the blockage. Make sure the plunger is submerged in water; if needed, add some water to the bowl. Apply firm, consistent pressure to create suction and try to dislodge whatever is blocking your sewer pipes. Be patient and keep plunging until you feel the blockage loosen. If this doesn’t work or the toilet is still overflowing, it’s time to move on to the next step.
3. Remove Excess Water
Once you’ve stopped the flow of water, you need to clean up any water that has spilled onto the floor before it causes damage. Use towels, old rags, or a mop to soak up the water. Be thorough, especially around the base of the toilet and any nearby areas where water may have spread. The quicker you get rid of the water, the less likely it is to seep into the floor and cause long-term damage.
4. Check for Blockages or Issues
If the toilet continues to overflow even after you’ve tried to clear the clog, there may be a larger issue down the line, such as a sewer line backup or a problem with the plumbing. If you suspect the issue is more than just a simple clog, it’s best to stop DIY-ing and call a plumber for a more thorough toilet repair.
5. Disinfect the Area
After you’ve cleaned up the water, it’s important to disinfect the affected area to avoid any germs or bacteria spreading, especially if the water was contaminated. Use a disinfectant cleaner or a bleach-water solution to clean the floor and surrounding areas thoroughly. Be sure to wear gloves while cleaning, and consider using a mask if the area is particularly smelly.
6. Call a Professional if Needed
If the overflow persists or you’re not able to figure out the cause of the blockage, your best hope is a reliable plumber. A professional will have the proper tools to diagnose the issue—whether it’s a clog deeper in the pipes or a more serious plumbing issue like a broken pipe or sewer line backup.
Keep Toilet Overflows Out of the Picture with Formula Plumbing Services’s Expert Help
Toilet overflows can sometimes be a sign of a bigger problem, such as a blocked sewer line or a worn-out part in the toilet. If overflows happen repeatedly, it’s worth getting your plumbing inspected to avoid recurring and future problems.
At Formula Plumbing Services, we provide affordable, effective toilets repair services. No matter the reason for your toilet overflow, we can solve it without hassle and mess. We deliver tailored solutions that guarantee fast relief for your wastewater crisis.
Call us today for a free estimate, or book your next plumbing service!
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