We all know that nothing can be worse than an overflowing toilet. It can be a messy and unpleasant problem to deal with, but it’s one that most homeowners will inevitably face at some point. Whether it’s due to a clog, a malfunctioning flapper valve, or a problem with the sewer line, an overflowing toilet requires quick action to prevent water damage and potential health hazards.

Fortunately, fixing an overflowing toilet is often a straightforward process that can be accomplished with basic tools and a little know-how. Let us get acquainted with the main reasons why a toilet starts overflowing and then discuss the ways to fix them.

4 Reasons Why A Toilet Starts Overflowing

1. Blocked Drain

A blocked drain can be a common cause of an overflowing toilet. When waste and toilet paper build up in the drainpipe, they can create a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely through the pipes.

As a result, when you flush the toilet, the water may not be able to pass through the blocked area, causing it to back up and overflow onto the floor.

Additionally, if there are any other clogs or blockages in your home’s plumbing system, this can exacerbate the issue by creating additional pressure and causing water to back up into the toilet.

To prevent blocked drains from causing an overflowing toilet, it’s important to take steps to keep your pipes clean and clear, such as avoiding flushing inappropriate items down the toilet and regularly cleaning out drains and pipes.

2. Blockage in The Sewerage System

A blockage in the sewerage system can also cause an overflowing toilet. The sewerage system is responsible for carrying waste and wastewater away from your home and into the municipal sewer system.

If there is a blockage in the sewer line, the wastewater may not be able to flow away from your home, causing it to back up into your plumbing system. This can lead to water backing up into your toilet bowl and overflowing onto the floor.

If you suspect that a blockage in the sewer line is causing your overflowing toilet, it’s important to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Do you need an expert plumber to remove the blockage in the sewer line causing your overflowing toilet? See the links below:

3. Problem With The Flush Valve

The primary function of the flush valve is to control the flow of water from the tank into the bowl during a flush. If the valve is not working properly, it can cause water to continuously flow into the bowl, leading to an overflow.

Another issue that can cause a problem with the flush valve is an improper adjustment.If the valve chain is too long, it can prevent the valve from closing completely, leading to a continuous flow of water into the bowl.

Conversely, if the chain is too short, it can cause the valve to close prematurely, preventing enough water from flowing into the bowl to complete a flush.

To fix a problem with the flush valve, it may be necessary to replace the valve entirely or adjust the chain length. In some cases, the valve may simply need to be cleaned or repositioned. It’s important to address a faulty flush valve promptly to prevent an overflowing toilet and water damage.

4. Faulty Plumbing

Faulty plumbing which can often consist of damaged pipes, or incorrect pipe installation can become a big reason why your toilet might be overflowing. If there are any cracks, breaks, or leaks in the pipes leading to the toilet or the sewer line, this can cause water to back up into the toilet, leading to an overflow.

Also, if the pipes leading to the toilet or the sewer line are not installed correctly, this can cause water to flow back into the toilet instead of away from it.

4 Ways To Fix An Overflowing Toilet

Knowing all the above factors can make it easier for someone with an overflowing toilet issue to take steps to stop the water from overflowing further unless a professional plumber can be reached. Let’s go through a complete walkthrough on how to unclog a toilet.

1. Stop The Water From Overflowing Further

Turn off the water supply with the help of the water supply valve, which is located behind the toilet, near the floor. Turning it clockwise will eventually shut off the water supply to the toilet. This will stop the flow of water into the tank and bowl, preventing further overflow.

If you’re curious about how water moves through your house, it’s typically delivered to your home through a main water supply line and then distributed to various fixtures through a network of pipes.

Inside the toilet tank, there is a float that regulates the water level. Lifting the float will stop water from filling the tank and bowl. You can lift the float manually or by gently lifting the arm attached to it.

If the toilet bowl is still filled with water, you may need to remove some of the excess water to prevent further overflow. You can do this by using a bucket or container to scoop out the water.

2. Use A Toilet Plunger

The most common cause of a clogged toilet is toilet paper and waste. It is best to use a plunger for these types of issues. Objects such as toothbrushes, pens, and toys are best unclogged with a plunger as the hook on the end of the plunger can sometimes retrieve these items.

Place the plunger over the toilet bowl drain, and push down and pull up repeatedly until the water starts to drain. This should dislodge any blockages that may be causing the overflow.

Related article: 4 Reasons Why Plunger Won’t Unclog a Toilet

3. Use A Toilet Auger

Use a toilet auger if a toilet plunger did not solve the problem. It is long and flexible, has a head with blades, and a cranking handle that either hooks the clogs and removes them from the toilet or shreds them into little bits. Gently insert the toilet auger through the trap and the toilet bowl outlet.

Start turning clockwise gradually and continue until you encounter friction. Check to make sure whether you have hooked onto anything by rotating the handle in the other direction.

The majority of toilet augers are just 3 to 6 feet long, which might occasionally be insufficient if the obstruction is further down the drain, which will mean that a professional plumber needs to be called immediately.

4. Use Hot Water & Dish Soap

Using hot water and dish soap is one of the DIY methods that can help stop a toilet from overflowing. The water should be hot, but not boiling. Be careful not to add too much soap, as this can create too many suds and make the problem worse. Allow the hot water and soap to sit in the toilet bowl for several minutes.

This will give the hot water and soap time to work on breaking down and dissolving any blockages in the drain. After several minutes, flush the toilet. The hot water and soap should help dislodge any blockages and allow the toilet to flush properly. It’s important to note that while this method can be effective, it may not always solve the underlying problem.

If the toilet continues to overflow or the problem persists, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for further assistance.

Conclusion

In the above guide, we have discussed the reasons and ways to solve the problem of overflowing toilets. We have discussed many DIY ways like using soap and hot water, using a plunger and toilet auger, and what to do to stop the water from overflowing further. However, in certain cases, despite doing all these, the problem persists.

Therefore, in that case, it might be a good option to call a professional plumber for assistance to stop the problem from worsening. When you find yourself in need of a professional plumber to fix your clogged toilet issues in Sutherland, call us, and we are available to help you out with the different water overflowing issues you must be facing.

There are different types of plumbing professionals, such as residential, commercial, and industrial, each specializing in specific areas of plumbing expertise.

At Damien McEvoy Plumbing, we understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient plumbing system so that it does not spread further, which is one of the reasons we offer a wide range of services to fix your plumbing issues in the Sutherland Shire area. Do not give it a second thought before calling us today at (02) 8599 4593 for a free consultation.

We’ll work to resolve your problems and offer the best possible solution so that you can enjoy your time in your clean and hygienic toilet area.