An overflowing toilet is all too familiar of a problem, and if not taken care of quickly, it can cause major damage. Water from the toilet can seep into walls and floorboards and damage cabinetry, spreading mold, mildew, and rot. It is essential to figure out why the toilet is overflowing and take steps to resolve the issue before it gets any worse. A variety of factors can cause a toilet to overflow, such as the following:
- Blocked Plumbing Vents
Many people may not know that their plumbing system has drain vents. These vents, which branch off from the main drain lines and go outside the house through the roof or a side wall, serve an important purpose. They allow air to enter the system and replace the air forced down the drain when a toilet is flushed. This is necessary to stop any build-up of gases that occur when waste is broken down and to prevent the toilet from overflowing. In addition, the vents stop a vacuum from forming, which can harm the plumbing system. If the vents become blocked with debris, like leaves or pine needles, it is best to call a professional with the right equipment to clean them.
- Clogged Drain
The primary cause of an overflowing toilet is an obstruction in the drain. This is usually due to too much toilet paper or other non-flushable items like wipes, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products being flushed down the toilet. If the blockage is severe enough, it prevents the flush valve from closing, allowing the water from the tank to flow into the bowl until it overflows continuously. To avoid this situation, ensure not to flush too much toilet paper and keep a plunger or plumbing snake nearby in an emergency.
- Sewer Line Blockage
In simpler words, a clogged or blocked sewer line can cause your toilet to overflow. This happens when people flush items that are not meant to be flushed, like paper towels, wet wipes, and feminine hygiene products. Tree roots can also cause blockages, as well as construction work. When the sewer line is blocked, the water will back up through the lowest opening in the system, such as the cellar or slab on grade. A full septic, clogged municipal sewer, or a clogged sewer to the street can cause this.
- Backflowing Septic Tank
A septic tank in your home is great for avoiding any plumbing issues resulting from nearby construction, but you must clean your tank and maintain regular maintenance. If your tank is overfilled, it won’t be able to absorb the wastewater being flushed down the toilet. This could lead to the toilet overflowing and the waste from the tank and toilet backing into your home.
Conclusion
It’s easy to become overwhelmed when dealing with a toilet overflow. But the good news is that there are four main reasons your toilet is overflowing, and with a little investigation, you can tackle the problem head-on and get your toilet back to normal again. From clogs and improper flushing to plumbing issues and tank problems, it’s important to identify the source of the overflow and take the proper steps to fix it. With the right help and patience, you can have your toilet flowing like new again in no time!
GVA Plumbing and Heating Ltd. is a Langley plumbing company with over 24 years of skilled plumbing experience. We are fully licensed and bonded, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands. If you need a bathroom plumber in Langley, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!
