How to Fix an Overflowing Toilet

You're always welcome to call Mr. Rooter for quick and affordable toilet repair, but this article offers an abridged guide to help you handle the mess on your own. Our team of dedicated plumbers is always happy to help.

Step 1: Stop the Flow of Water

Before anything else, you need to stop more water from entering the bowl. Don’t flush again! Flushing a second time will only make things worse. Shut off the water supply at the valve located near the base of the toilet. Turn it clockwise to close.

Step 2: Grab Your Plunger

Most overflows are caused by a blockage in the toilet trap (that U-shaped bend in the bowl). That’s where a good plunger earns its keep. So, grab yours.

Make sure your plunger has a flange (the little rubber extension) for a better seal. Place it over the drain opening in the bowl and plunge while maintaining suction. It may take a few strong pushes to break up the clog.

If you notice the water level going down, that’s a good sign. Once the bowl is mostly empty, try a single flush to see if the problem is resolved.

Step 3: If the Plunger Fails, Try a Toilet Auger

An auger is a flexible and often hand-cranked cable designed to break up or hook deeper clogs that plungers can’t reach. You insert the auger into the toilet drain and crank the handle to work it through the trap. Once you feel resistance followed by release, you may have cleared the blockage. Flush to test.

Still no luck? The problem may be farther down the line - and it’s time to call in professional help.

Common Causes of Toilet Overflows

Toilets can overflow because of blockages, but that's hardly the only reason why. Of course, we always advise AGAINST throwing "flushable" wet wipes, hygiene products, and even too much toilet paper down the toilet. However, recognize these factors as well:

• Low-flow Toilet Inefficiency: Older models might not handle waste well, and they can cause frequent backups.
• Sewer Line Issues: A clog in the main sewer line will cause multiple drains to back up; not just the toilet's.
• Malfunctioning: Mechanical failures in the tank can cause continuous water flow.

If your toilet overflows repeatedly, you notice slow drainage in multiple fixtures, or plunging simply isn’t solving the issue, then it’s time to bring in a professional.

Why Choose Mr. Rooter Plumbing?

Something as simple as a toilet can have more parts and components than anyone wants to deal with. While anyone can dislodge a blockage with a drain snake, the goal is to tackle the root cause. Plumbers assess the plumbing system as a whole when investigating even the most simple issue. This way, they can ensure long-lasting results.

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we've deployed efficient and effective techniques for decades. With years of experience under our belts, we are confident that we'll get the job done right, quickly, and without rushing.

Mr. Rooter is not your run-of-the-mill company. With uniformed plumbers, branded vehicles, and upfront pricing, we bring professional service you can't find anywhere else.

Whether you need an emergency plumbing repair service at home or a complex installation at your new business, the licensed and insured plumbers at Mr. Rooter have the experience, expertise, and equipment to help.