If the bowl is rising right now
- Do not flush again.A second flush adds a full tank of water to a bowl that cannot drain.
- Close the supply valve.Turn the small oval handle on the wall behind the toilet clockwise until the tank stops filling. If it will not turn, lift the tank lid and raise the float to stop the fill, then close the main water shutoff if needed.
- Protect the floor.Lay down towels. If the overflow came from a backup rather than clean water, treat it as contaminated.
- Check the rest of the house.Look at the tub and nearby sink. If they are filling or gurgling, the problem is probably the main line.
Plunging the right way
A flange plunger, the kind with a soft extension below the cup, seals into the toilet's drain opening. Flat cup plungers are made for sinks and slip on curved bowls. Make sure there is enough water to cover the cup, press down gently to push out the air, then work it with firm, steady strokes for 15 to 20 seconds before lifting.
If the water drops, add a little water from a bucket to test before flushing. Several honest attempts that do nothing usually mean the clog is a solid object, a heavy wad of wipes, or a blockage beyond the toilet.
Is it the toilet or the main?
- IfOnly this toilet is affected and plunging clears itThenA normal toilet clog. Keep an eye on whether it repeats.
- IfThe toilet clears but clogs again within daysThenSomething may be lodged in the trapway, or the branch line is partly blocked. A closet auger or a plumber is next.
- IfFlushing makes the tub or shower fillThenA main line blockage. Stop using water and have the main cleared from a cleanout.
- IfA child's toy, phone or other object went downThenDo not plunge, which can push it further. A plumber may need to pull the toilet to retrieve it.
Common causes
| Cause | What usually helps |
|---|---|
| Too much paper in one flush | Flange plunger, then flush in stages |
| Flushable wipes, paper towels, hygiene products | Closet auger; these do not break down like toilet paper |
| Solid object in the trapway | Retrieval, sometimes by removing the toilet |
| Low-volume flush with a partially blocked drain | Clearing the branch or main line |
| Mineral buildup in rim and siphon jets | Cleaning the jets; hard water scale is common locally |
Questions for a plumber
- Will you clear it with a closet auger first or remove the toilet?
- If the toilet comes off, will you replace the wax ring or seal?
- Do you think the blockage is in the toilet, the branch or the main?
- Is anything about the toilet, such as weak flushing, contributing?
Common questions
Are flushable wipes safe for my drains?
Many plumbers and wastewater agencies advise against flushing them. They hold together far longer than toilet paper and catch on roots, joints and rough pipe.
Why does my toilet gurgle when the shower drains?
Gurgling usually means air is being pulled through the toilet trap because the drain or vent is partly blocked. It is often an early main line or venting warning.
Can I use a drain chemical in a toilet?
It is best not to. Chemicals rarely clear toilet clogs and leave a hazardous bowl for whoever has to plunge or auger it next.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.