A Running Shower and an Overflowing Toilet Indicate a Severe Sewer Blockage

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

If your toilet overflow caused a significant flood, consider bringing in flood restoration experts

You just discovered that your morning shower caused a toilet overflow downstairs. This overflow indicates that you have a severe plumbing problem and have several concerns:

1. You face a messy sewage cleaning job.
   
2. The sewer blockage is below the level of the toilet.
   
3. Other drains may be affected.
   

You may Be Able to Clear the Clogged Pipe Yourself

Before attempting to clear the pipe, it is essential to perform an initial cleanup of the overflowed sewer water. That is the most dangerous category of water and disinfecting the entire area is recommended. Gloves and a mask are also essential.

If the obstruction is in your house, there is an excellent chance that you can clear the clogged pipe yourself. However, a blockage outside your home will likely require the services of a plumber or even your Department of Public Works.

Determine the location of the blockage by checking the other drains in your home. If any pipes are open, the clog is likely in your home. Unfortunately, the tests may cause more water to back up into the toilet and require additional sewage cleaning. You should take this into account while cleaning the overflow area.

The Plumbing Auger Is the Tool of Choice for Clearing Blocked Drains

An auger is a long thin coiled wire with a flared tip. You insert it into the toilet as far as it goes. If it encounters the blockage, a twisting and back-and-forth motion and running water will remove the clog. If you don’t own and can’t borrow an auger, someone in the plumbing department of a Chagrin Falls, OH, hardware store can help you find the right one.

If your toilet overflow caused a significant flood, consider bringing in flood restoration experts with their specialized equipment and expertise to perform your sewage cleaning. When they are finished treating your home, it will be “Like it Never Even Happened”.