Toilet Backs Up – What To Do

Before you reach for the plunger, read this guy on when to call plumber and how to avoid long-term damage. What to do when your toilet backs up repeatedly. No want wants toilet bac

If there’s one plumbing issue that grind your day to a halt, it’s a backed up toilet. One flush turned into a mini flood. Gross smell? Check. Panic mode? Activated. Before you go all in with the plunger or pour harsh chemicals down your drain, take a minute this post will walk you through what to do when your toilet backs up repeatedly from basic troubleshooting to know when it’s time to call a pro.

Don’t panic assess the situation 

The 1st sign of a back up is usually slow draining, gurgling, or rising water. Don’t keep flushing, hoping that it will fix itself. This will only make things worse.

Signs of a serious back up 

• Water rises to the rim or spills over.
• Gurgling sounds from nearby drains like the toddler sink.
• Foul smells coming from the bowl.
• Back up happening in multiple toilets or drains in the home.

If you’re only seeing this problem in one toilet, the clog is likely local. If multiple fixtures are affected, you may have a main sewer line blockage.

Try a plunger first but not right away

A flange plunger, not a sink plunger is the best tool here. Make sure that there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the plungers head and get a solid seal.

How to plunge effectively

• Insert the plunger into the bowl and position it over the hole.
• Push and pull forcefully, keeping the seal intact.
• Do this for about 20 seconds.
• Remove the plunger and dry flushing once.

If the water still rises or the drain slowly stop. You may push the clog deeper or rupture the toilet internal components.

Avoid chemical drain cleaners

Yes, they’re tempting. But most of the drain cleaners on the shelf are too harsh for the toilets. They can damage the porcelain, warp pipes, and create dangerous fumes.

If you want a DIY method, use a mix of

• Hot water, not boiling
• Baking soda use one cup
• White vinegar use one cup

Let this sit for about 30 minutes before you flush again. Still clogged? Time to escalate.

Use a toilet auger if you have one

A toilet auger or a closet auger as a hand, crank plumbing snake made for toilets. It’s designed to break up or pull out clogs within the toilet trap without scratching the porcelain.

How to use

• Insert the tip into the drain hole.
• Crank slowly while applying light pressure.
• If you feel resistance, that’s the clog.
• Keep turning until it clears or loosens.
• You can try to flush.

Still have nothing? You’re dealing with a deeper problem.

Went to call a plumber

Here’s the truth some backup just won’t bug without professional help. And delaying the service call can lead to.

• The toilet backs up more than once a month.
• You notice back ups and other drains.
• The plunger and auger don’t work.
• Your hearing gurgling and other parts of the house.
• Water backs up after you use different appliances like the washer.

Call a plumber if 

• Overflowing and water damage
• Sewer gas leaks
• Septic tank overflow
• Cracked steals or gaskets

Your issue may be deeper in the main sewer line which requires a camera inspection and possibly Hydro jetting or excavation.

What not to do?

• Don’t keep flushing it won’t fix it and might flood your bathroom.
• Don’t ignore reoccurring backups that’s a sign of a bigger issue.
• Don’t use a code hanger or uncoated metal rods – this can damage your toilet.

Prevent future backups

Once your toilet works again, make a few simple changes to avoid repeat issues.

Flush only toilet paper and waste 

Baby wipes are no go, feminine products are a no go, Q-tips, cotton balls, or paper towel are a no go, even if they do say flushable. So if your toilet backs up from these products its probably a no go.

Watch kids and guests

Children are known to flush toys, socks, and anything that fits down the toilet. Keep a trashcan nearby for gas to avoid confusion. People should know what makes toilet backs up.

Maintain your plumbing

• Get the main line inspected every 2 to 3 years.
• Use enzyme based drain cleaners monthly a good one to use is bio clean.
• If you have old clay or cast-iron pipes, consider pipelining or replacement.

Toilet backups when it rains

This is common and older homes that have combined sewer systems. When heavy rains overwhelm the system, sewage can back up through the lowest drain often your toilet.

In this case you may need

• A backwater valve installed.
• Storm drain redirection.
• Sewer, pipe, upgrades or cleaning. (a drain cleaning isn’t a bad idea)

Final thoughts

Dealing with a toilet that keeps backing up is more than a hassle – it’s more like a major health or property risk. Start with the basics a good plunger, some patience and a little DIY knowledge. But if the problem persists or spread beyond the toilet, don’t hesitate to call A pro. We want to make sure when your toilet backs up you are ready.

If you’re in the Macomb Township area and need help with a toilet that won’t stop backing up. We’re here 24 seven.