It is stressful to watch your toilet overflow and spill onto the bathroom floor. We have all been there. We all agree that it is incredibly irritating and anxiety-inducing. Unfortunately, many of us have no idea what to do when this situation presents itself. Before you know it, you have a huge mess to contend with and a clogged toilet on your hands. The key in this type of dilemma is to know what steps to take. While we may not be able to avoid dealing with a clogged toilet, we are able, however, capable of preventing some of the mess that comes with it. The key is to know how to stop an overflowing toilet.
How To Stop A Toilet From Overflowing
Contents
In this article, we will discuss what you need to know in order to prevent an overflowing toilet. Likewise, we discuss how to remove a toilet clog.
Causes Of An Overflowing Toilet
An overflowing toilet is most often the result of a simple block. Less common are issues with the tank’s floating mechanism. This means that your toilet may be incorrectly regulating the flow of water. That said, when you find yourself in an overflow situation, the first step is to cut the water supply to the toilet. You can work on pinpointing the underlying source of the problem later.
Shut Off The Toilet’s Water Supply
To shut off the toilet’s water supply, check the line near the bottom side of the bowl. Typically this line will include a valve. Once you locate the valve, turn it clockwise to halt the flow of water. This will stop the toilet from overflowing further.
Homeowners should always be aware of their water supply valves. This includes their main water supply as well as those that are you can control individually on a plumbing fixture such as a sink, toilet, etc.
Lift The Float Ball In The Toilet Tank
Next, take off the toilet tank cover. Lift up the float ball high so the water stops running. While the water in the tank is sanitary, feel free to pop on a pair of rubber gloves for this step. Then, use a disposable cup or bucket to manually eliminate any excess water at the brim of the tank and the toilet bowl. Pour this water into an adjacent sink or shower if is clean. If the water is dirty, it is best to use a plastic bucket. Once you have fixed the flood, pour any dirty water back into the toilet bowl and re flush the toilet for a safe method of disposal.
Use A Plunger For A Clogged Toilet
Sometimes the toilet may also need a plunge to clear a potential blockage. Line up the rubber cup of your toilet plunger with the center hole in the toilet bowl. Push down on the plunger, gradually increasing intensity and speed to suction out the toilet clog. After a few moments, the momentum of the plunger should dislodge the clog or mass blocking the plumbing. Once cleared, water should flow freely throughout the toilet again. Remember to turn the water back on at the bottom valve once you have cleared the clog. Next, wait until the water level drops to normal. It also helps to give the toilet a test flush to ensure everything is working properly.
If you find that you are unable to remove the clog from the toilet, then it is best to call a plumber. They have the necessary tools and skills to understand what it takes to fix your toilet.
Use A Toilet Auger
Lastly, if a plunger doesn’t work you may elect to try a little gadget called a toilet auger. An auger is a special plumbing snake lopped in a protective tube with a bend at the end. You can insert the auger inside the hole in the bowl and turn the handle to clear a hard-to-reach clog. Please note that a regular plumbing snake should not be used in a toilet, as it will damage or scratch the bowl.
Call A Professional Plumber
Please keep in mind that even the most intrepid do-it-yourself-er is no match for a professional plumber. If you have a nasty clog or ongoing overflow problem is it of utmost importance for all homeowners to call a professional plumber for all repairs and maintenance.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All Of Your Plumbing Requirements
Contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the most trusted plumbing companies in the Lehigh Valley, for reliable plumbing services. We have lots of plumbing services ranging from toilet repairs and replacements, faucet upgrades, water leak repairs, clogged drain repairs, and more. We always give a wide range of solutions when possible for any plumbing repairs. This allows you to choose the best options for your budget and home.
We proudly offer the most affordable and best plumbing services in the Lehigh Valley area. Our plumbers all have the proper licenses and expertise to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today and schedule your free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!