Why Your Toilet is Backing Up

Toilets are supposed to drain down, not up. So, it can be alarming when your toilet starts to back up and even overflow.

Many people assume that if the toilet isn’t draining, it must be clogged. While this is a common reason, there are others that you need to be aware of.

Toilet Clogs

Toilet clogs are inevitable, so it’s best to be prepared when one occurs. The best way to prevent a clog is to ensure only waste and toilet paper are flushed down the toilet. Even “flushable” wipes are too thick to flush and will cause a clog in your drain pipe.

Sewer Line Issues

A backup can also come from a sewer line or septic system issue. There may be a clog in the pipe system further down and sewage will back up into your toilet. Often, a sewage backup affects multiple drains, so if you see backup in the shower or in any sinks, a sewer clog is likely.

What You Can Do

For clogs, always start with a plunger. Remember, don’t use the stereotypical plunger with the red, round cover on a wood stick. Those are meant for sinks! Find a plunger with a long, thick tube. They usually have an extruding piece that enters the drain so it can create a tight seal. Once a seal is created, you can begin to plunge.

If the plunger alone doesn’t work, you can try using other DIY drain cleaning methods, like boiling water, vinegar, and baking soda.

For sewer issues, make sure to contact a plumber right away. Sewage backup can be a health hazard and cleaning nightmare.

Absolute Service Since 1965

At Lloyds Plumbing, we practice absolute service and have since 1965. Contact us today at (805) 495-8766 to see how we can help with a variety of plumbing problems.