What to Do When a Toilet Overflows

When the toilet starts to overflow your instinct might be to pinch your nose and get out of there, but you have got to face that mess eventually. Dont worry though. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburg has you covered with reliable and affordable plumbing service. We also put together this quick-read article for you to minimize damage and apply some temporary solutions until the plumbers arrive. We will also go over some ways to reduce the risk of your toilet overflowing again. Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to speak with a live representative now. Our reliable plumbers in Munhall are on standby for your call.

STOP Flushing

Do NOT try to flush the toilet. This will only make the problem worse. If the toilet is overflowing, then you likely have something blocking the drains. Flushing the toilet is not going to apply enough pressure to remove that blockage. Instead, it is just going to add to the flood of water taking over your bathroom floors.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Most toilets have a water shutoff valve near the base of the toilet or behind the unit. If you cannot find this valve, then remove the toilet lid and lift up the float ball enough to manually stop the water from running. This should stop the overflowing from getting worse.

Unclog the Toilet

Now that you have stopped the water from flowing, it is time to make way for the existing water to drain down the toilet. For this, you are going to have to remove the blockage. In order to unclog the toilet, you will need a drain auger, also called a drain snake, or a plunger. Also, dont forget your gloves and mask.

To unclog with the auger, insert the end of the apparatus into the toilet and turn the crank clockwise to send the flexible wire down the line. You should eventually feel it hit an obstruction. Push through that blockage until you notice the water level subside, then pull the auger back out. You will find some gunk at the end of it. Repeat these steps until the toilet water is at its normal level.

With the plunger, lower it into the toilet bowl carefully letting out the air from inside the plunger. Seal the opening of the toilet bowl snugly and plunge firmly using an up-and-down motion. This should force water against the blockage and push through. Once the blockage is removed, you should see the water level readjust to its original level.

You can turn the water supply back on once the clog is removed.

Clean Up and Wait for The Plumber

Cleaning that mess is not going to be fun, but it is crucial. Grey and black water coming from your overflowing toilet has a ton of bacteria, pathogens, and microbes. Put on your gloves and bring out some diluted bleach to eliminate these threats. Make sure to dry the place after the cleaning to prevent mold and mildew growth.

The plumber from Mr. Rooter Plumbing should arrive shortly and get started on a drain cleaning. A professional drain cleaning will make it so you do not deal with another toilet overflow anytime soon.

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