31 Oct Handling an Overflowing Toilet: What Steps to Take

A toilet overflow is one of those household mishaps that can send even the calmest homeowner into a bit of a panic. Water spilling onto your bathroom floor is never a welcome sight. But fear not because at FB Plumbing, we’ve seen and resolved countless overflowing toilet issues. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when your toilet decides to go beyond its usual duties.

Step 1: Remain Calm

Yes, it can be a stressful situation, but keeping a cool head is essential. Panic won’t make the situation any better, and you need to think clearly to address the issue.

Step 2: Stop the Flow

The moment you notice your toilet is overflowing, you need to stop the water flow. Remove the tank’s lid and find the flapper valve or the float ball. The goal is to close this valve as quickly as possible to prevent more water from entering the bowl.

Step 3: Turn Off the Water Supply

If the toilet doesn’t stop overflowing after closing the flapper valve, it’s time to turn off the water supply. The shut-off valve is typically located behind or beneath the toilet. Turn it clockwise (right) until it’s tightly closed.

Step 4: Clear the Blockage

Most toilet overflows are caused by clogs. If you have a plunger on hand, use it to try and dislodge the blockage. Place the plunger firmly over the drain hole, push down, then pull up quickly. Repeat this motion several times. If the water begins to drain, you’re making progress. If not, it might be time to call in the professionals.

Step 5: Be Patient

After using the plunger, give it a few minutes to see if the water level starts to decrease. If it’s slowly going down, you’re on the right track. If it remains high, you may need to try plunging again or consider calling FB Plumbing for expert assistance.

Step 6: Cleanup

While waiting for the water to recede, it’s essential to prevent any potential damage. If water has reached the floor, start mopping or use towels to soak up the excess. The faster you clean up, the less likely you’ll have long-term damage to your bathroom.

Step 7: Seek Professional Help

If your efforts with the plunger don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call in FB Plumbing. Our skilled plumbers have the expertise and equipment to tackle even the most stubborn clogs. Additionally, if the toilet overflows due to more complex issues, like a problem in the sewer line, you’ll need professional help to diagnose and resolve the situation.

Step 8: Prevent Future Overflows

Prevention is always better than dealing with an overflowing toilet. You can reduce the risk of clogs by being mindful of what you flush—never flush non-flushable items. Installing a drain screen or filter can also help prevent large debris from entering your pipes. Regular maintenance from FB Plumbing can identify and address potential issues before they lead to overflows.

In the event of an overflowing toilet, follow these steps to minimize damage and address the problem as effectively as possible. Remember that FB Plumbing is just a phone call away, ready to assist you with any plumbing issue, big or small. Don’t let an overflowing toilet disrupt your day. Contact us for fast, professional solutions.