Toilet Backing Up? What Homeowners Should Do

How to Repair Backed-Up Toilets

A backed-up toilet is not an issue homeowners want to deal with. It can be messy and gross and can lead to health issues. Plus, they can signal an issue in the sewer line or plumbing system that needs to be repaired. 

Helotes, TX plumbers explain what causes toilets to back up, how plumbers repair them, and ways homeowners can avoid problems. 

Common Causes of Backed-Up Toilets

tree roots When a toilet backs up, homeowners can panic, trying to figure out what caused the problem. A plumber will perform a complete inspection of the plumbing system, including the sewer line. Some possible issues they will look for that can lead to backed-up toilets are:

  • Clogged sewer lines. These blockages can be caused by grease, debris, or larger objects like tree roots.
  • Collapsed sewer lines. These can be caused by aging and deterioration.
  • Sagging sewer lines. When this happens, or when lines become bellied, it can cause wastewater to build up.
  • Cracked pipes. Corroded or cracked pipes can cause debris to accumulate.

Ways to Repair a Backed-Up Toilet

Homeowners should schedule repairs on their backed-up toilet at the first signs of an issue. When plumbers arrive, they will assess the situation and determine a course of action.

Initially, plumbers might perform a sewer video inspection. This will help them quickly and accurately locate a defect in the sewer line. Once they determine the cause and the severity of the issue, they can select a repair method.

For minor sewer line clogs, plumbers may use a plunger or a drain snake to remove or break up the clog. They might also use hydrojetting services if there is a large blockage, like a tree root. 

Plumbers might opt for trenchless sewer line repairs if the line has a crack. If there is a larger problem that trenchless methods can’t fix, then technicians will need to use traditional options. 

How to Help Prevent Toilet Backups

camera inspection While backed-up toilets can be a hassle for homeowners and their households, fortunately, they can take steps to prevent these from occurring. 

Helotes, TX plumbers offer tips property owners can follow to avoid backups from happening:

  • Only flushing waste and toilet paper. Homeowners should never flush wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, dental floss, and other items.
  • Scheduling regular drain cleaning services and sewer video inspections to remove residue and buildups. Homeowners should also book hydrojetting services to remove large clogs.
  • Never pour grease down the drain. 
  • Add screens over drains to prevent hair, soap scum, and other debris from going down the sink.
  • Inspect tree roots and add root barriers to prevent them from growing into the sewer line.

About Anchor Plumbing Services

The team at Anchor Plumbing Services offers top plumbing services to the San Antonio area. They offer same-day services for their client’s convenience and always provide flat-rate pricing and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Call them today for toilet repair services in Helotes, TX.

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