What to do When Your Toilet Overflows

An overflowing toilet, be it in your home or workplace, can understandably cause distress. After all, no one wants their dirty business to be left out in the open. More than just divulging your secrets, the resulting water from a toilet overflow can cause property damage and spread pathogens that can endanger the health of people and pets alike.

If you find that your toilet is overflowing, stay calm. Maintain your composure and follow these steps from our team of expert plumbers Dunedin property owners trust: 

Locate the Shut-Off Valve to Turn Off the Water Supply

The first thing you need to do in case of an overflowing toilet is to shut off the corresponding water supply. Doing so will help you control the water flow and prevent it from contaminating the room further. Locate the shut-off valve, which is typically found behind the toilet near the floor, and turn it clockwise to stop the water from filling the toilet. In the event that you can’t find the valve, you can open the toilet tank and lift the float to stop the water from rising further.

Contain and Remove Excess Water from the Room

Once the water is shut off, the next thing you need to do is contain and clean up any spillage. Addressing this immediately is key to preventing water damage. Depending on the mess, you can use a mop or a wet-and-dry vacuum to remove as much water as you can. Using towels can also be a good idea to reach tricky spaces. Be careful not to spread the water further, as it can damage and contaminate flooring, baseboards, and nearby furniture.

Use a Plunger or Toilet Auger to Unclog the Toilet



In many cases, a toilet overflow can be traced back to a clog. Use a plunger to try to dislodge the blockage. If that doesn’t work, a toilet auger or a plumbing snake can help break up or remove the obstruction.

Get Professionals to Check for Ongoing Issues

If the toilet keeps clogging or backing up despite your efforts, this could indicate a deeper plumbing issue, such as a blockage in the main sewer line. If you’ve been noticing persistent problems or strange noises like gurgling, then you may need professional help. You can count on our team of experts at Mains Plumbers to diagnose the plumbing issue in your Dunedin address. 

Thoroughly Disinfect the Area

After the overflow, it’s crucial to disinfect the affected areas, as toilets contain a host of bacteria and other germs that can pose a health risk. Clean the floors and any exposed surfaces with a disinfectant to ensure that the space is safe.

How Do You Minimise Damage Due to Toilet Overflow?

In some cases, an overflowing toilet can cause extensive water damage. This is especially true if the water has seeped into the flooring or walls. Keep it under control by doing the following:

• Act Fast. Water can quickly warp wood, damage tiles, and encourage mould growth. The quicker you stop the water and clean up, the less damage there will be.
  
• Ventilate the Area. Encourage good air circulation by opening windows or using fans. These will help dry out the area and reduce the risk of mould and mildew.

• Use Towels and Barriers. Place towels around the toilet to contain the overflow. If the water spreads, it can cause water damage to the surrounding structure.

• Move Furniture and Items. If water threatens to spread beyond the toilet area, move any nearby furniture, rugs, and other items away to prevent further damage.
  

What Potential Damages and Risks Can an Overflowing Toilet Cause?

If not addressed properly, an overflowing toilet can cause damage even after the cause has been resolved. For instance, if a room is not dried thoroughly, this can lead to eventual water damage. Wood can warp, tiles can crack, and water can seep into the foundation of your home. Lingering moisture also encourages the growth of mould and mildew, which can be difficult to remove and harmful to your health. Toilet overflows can also expose your home to bacteria and viruses, especially if sewage backs up. This can result in contamination and health risks for anyone in your household.

What Are the Signs That You Should Call a Plumbing Technician to Solve a Toilet Overflow?

A professional can determine the cause of the toilet overflow and present you with practical solutions to solve it and prevent it from happening again. If any of the following occur in your home or workplace, then you should get a trusted plumber to look at the issue.

• The Overflow Persists. If you can’t stop the toilet from overflowing, or if the water keeps rising after you’ve turned off the water supply, call a plumbing technician immediately.
  
  
• Frequent Clogs. If your toilet regularly clogs or backs up, it could indicate a more serious issue like a blockage in the sewer line.
  
  
• Gurgling Sounds. Strange gurgling noises or water backing up into other drains when you flush the toilet are signs of a deeper plumbing problem.
  
  
• Sewage Backup. If sewage starts to back up into the toilet or other drains in your home, this is a sign of a blockage in the main sewer line. This is a critical problem that needs professional help right away.
  

Taking immediate action and knowing when to call a professional plumber can help you avoid extensive water damage and health risks from an overflowing toilet. If you have recurring issues with overflowing toilets, get in touch with Mains Plumbers so we can offer you expert assistance. Aside from providing emergency plumbing services to Dunedin residents, our company also offers drainlaying services as well as gas fitting services. Call us today.