What to do When Your Toilet Overflows
Compared to other plumbing problems, an overflowing toilet is one that is likely to send homeowners into panic mode – and we get it, water pouring out of the toilet can be super overwhelming. However, the good news is that if/when your toilet does overflow, there are a few things you can do to stop the craziness while you wait for an expert to arrive, and they’re not too difficult!
Below, we list out some step-by-step instructions that you should follow if this situation ever presents itself to you:
- Relax. Most importantly, you need to take a step back, breathe, and relax. Addressing a toilet that overflows can be rather stressful if you’re panicking, so do your best to keep calm – remember, all things can be fixed!
- Clear the area. To make things easier on yourself, first remove anything in your bathroom that can get in your way – for example, garbage cans that you have set up next to your sink or a chair/stool if you have a vanity. Then, remove any other items that you don’t want to get damaged by the water, such as bath rugs that you might have right outside the shower.
- Turn off the water. The best way to stop your toilet from overflowing is to turn off the water completely. A water supply valve should be located right behind your toilet, but if you’re having trouble locating it, find your home’s main shut off valve and stop the water supply to your home altogether.
- Address the clog. Once the water stops flowing, you can begin to address the situation. If your toilet is completely filled, remove some of the excess water first with a bucket, then take your plunger and start plunging until the toilet starts to drain normally again. If your plunger doesn’t seem to do the trick, the next step would be to try using an auger.
Even if you’re able to solve the problem on your own, keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to have a professional check things out anyway – you know the saying, better safe than sorry!
For our readers in Orange County, if your toilet ever overflows, you can always count on the Barker and Sons Plumbing & Rooter team to solve the problem quickly and efficiently. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, so don’t ever hesitate to give us a call when you need help – we can be reached at 714.630.8766.
