It is fairly easy for toilets to overflow, and not every instance requires the use of residential plumbing services. The key to handling most overflows is to stop the water flow immediately, remove water to prevent damage, and then try to remove the clog yourself.
Do You Need Residential Plumbing Services?
The first thing to do is to identify the problem. If the problem is not a clogged toilet, then you should call your residential plumber for rooter service. Other sources of water flow could be:
- Leaking where the tank connects to the bowl
- Water seeping from beneath the toilet
- Dripping from the fitting that connects the toilet to the water supply
- Water leaking behind the wall and flowing onto the floor
Keep in mind all of these might not be caused by bad habits that destroy your sink, shower, and toilet pipes, but could be consequences of time.
Turn Off the Water
Turning off the water to a clogged toilet is as easy as turning off the small valve located behind and beneath the toilet tank. If there is not a valve or if the water is leaking from anywhere other than the toilet you will need to turn off the water supply to the home. There may be a valve where the main line enters the house, but you may have to locate and close the water flow at the meter. Turning off the water at the meter may require a wrench or other tools.
Remove Standing Water
With the flow of water stopped, you can use a mop or wet vac to remove water standing on the floor. It is important that you do this as soon as possible to reduce the risk of water damage to the floor. If the toilet is not on the ground floor, standing water may seep through and damage the ceiling of the room beneath.
Remove Excess Water and Debris
With a wet vac or something that can be dipped, remove the excess water from the bowl so that you can work with the clog. Remove any visible debris that may be causing the clog. Do not flush the toilet yet. Even though the water is off, your tank is still full and could cause another overflow if you flush.
Plunge the Toilet
The best plungers have a tubelike opening beneath the plunger bell that fits more securely into the drain of the toilet. Carefully insert the plunger into the drain and work it up and down rapidly a few times. If the water goes down, try flushing the toilet to see if the clog is completely removed. If it is not, you may need to use a plumber’s snake or call for expert assistance.
There will be times when residential plumbing services are the only solution. If you discover leaks that are not caused by a clog or overflow, the necessary repairs may be difficult to perform without a working knowledge of household plumbing systems.
Residential Plumbing Services — Ehret Co. Plumbing & Heating
Ehret Co. Plumbing & Heating provides 24/7 residential plumbing services for homes and multifamily buildings. We pride ourselves on our professional and quality work. Contact us through our online contact form or call us at 510-528-4292 for residential plumbing services any time, any day of the week.