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A Guide to Tackling a Clogged Toilet and Shower (Simultaneously!)

how to tell if toilet is clogged

Get quick, practical solutions for fixing a toilet and shower both being backed up.

 

Imagine this: you hop in the shower for a relaxing morning routine, only to be met with a rising tide (well, not exactly ideal). But wait, there’s more! The culprit behind the backup isn’t contained to just your shower – your toilet’s decided to join the party. Don’t panic! This frustrating double whammy can be tackled, and Superior Plumbing is here to guide you through the process. Let’s get to the bottom of this (literally) and get your plumbing flowing smoothly once again!

Easiest Way to fix toilet and shower clogs

While a double clog in your toilet and shower can be stressful, the good news is there’s a quick and easy solution: call Superior Plumbing for drain cleaning services here in Tulsa. Sure, you could attempt DIY methods, but wrestling with plungers and drain snakes can be messy, and frustrating, and might not even solve the problem entirely. Superior Plumbing’s experienced technicians have the right tools and expertise to diagnose the clog and clear it efficiently. Let us handle the dirty work and save you the hassle, not to mention the potential for further plumbing woes. It’s a smart investment in both your time and your sanity!

Pros to a Pro Plumber in Tulsa

  • Expertise and Diagnosis: Licensed plumbers in Tulsa have the knowledge and experience to diagnose the exact cause of the clog, not just treat the symptoms. They can identify hidden issues and prevent future problems.
  • Proper Tools and Equipment: Professionals have access to specialized tools and equipment, like drain augers and video inspection cameras, to effectively remove clogs without damaging your pipes.
  • Guaranteed Work: Most licensed plumbers offer warranties on their services, ensuring the clog is fixed properly and providing peace of mind.
  • Safety: DIY plumbing attempts can lead to further damage or even injuries. Licensed plumbers prioritize safety and are trained to handle hazardous materials like sewage.
  • Building Codes and Regulations: Licensed plumbers are familiar with local plumbing codes and regulations, ensuring your repairs are compliant and avoid future complications.
  • Preventative Maintenance: They can identify potential problems early on and recommend preventative measures to avoid future clogs and bigger plumbing headaches.

Why are My Toilet and Shower Clogged at the Same Time?

A clogged toilet and shower simultaneously often point to a deeper issue in your plumbing system, rather than separate blockages. The culprit usually lies in the main drain line, the central pipe that carries wastewater away from your home. This shared drain is why clogs in one fixture can cause backups in another. Imagine a traffic jam – a blockage in the main drain acts like a pileup, preventing wastewater from both the toilet and shower from flowing freely. For instance, an accumulation of grease, hair, or foreign objects can create a clog that disrupts the entire system.

Now, picture Sarah’s morning getting turned upside down. Stepping into the shower, she’s greeted by water pooling around her ankles. Before she can investigate, a gurgling sound emanates from the toilet, and – oh no – it’s overflowing! The double clog has struck, leaving Sarah frustrated and unsure of how to proceed. This is where Superior Plumbing’s expertise comes in. Our licensed plumbers can diagnose the source of the clog and get Sarah’s plumbing flowing smoothly again, saving her time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Common Culprits of Clogged Drains

Grease Buildup: Over time, grease and cooking oils can solidify and accumulate in the main drain line, causing a blockage that affects both the toilet and shower.
Hair and Soap Scum: Hair shed in the shower and soap scum buildup can combine to form a clog, especially if not regularly cleaned. This blockage can easily extend into the main drain, impacting both fixtures.
Foreign Objects: Accidental flushing of non-flushable items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or even toys can cause major clogs in the main drain, preventing wastewater from both the toilet and shower from flowing properly.
Tree Root Infiltration: Tree roots can grow into sewer lines, seeking water and nutrients. This can create a persistent clog that disrupts the flow of wastewater from multiple fixtures, including the toilet and shower.
Broken or Collapsed Drain Line: In older homes, the main drain line might be damaged or even collapsed due to age, corrosion, or improper installation. This can create a significant blockage impacting all connected fixtures.

Benefits of Pro Drain Cleaning in Tulsa

When your Tulsa home suffers the unfortunate fate of a simultaneous toilet and shower clog, calling Superior Plumbing for drain cleaning in Tulsa, OK is your wisest move. Our licensed plumbers won’t just guess at the problem – they’ll employ a methodical approach to clear the blockage effectively. This might involve using a drain snake, a long, flexible cable that can reach deep into the main drain line to break up and remove clogs. For tougher clogs or to pinpoint the exact location of the problem, Superior Plumbing may utilize a video inspection camera. This tiny camera snakes its way through the pipes, providing a visual assessment of the blockage, allowing us to target the issue precisely. Once the clog is identified and broken up, high-powered water jetting, or hydro-jetting, can be used to thoroughly flush the entire drain line, removing any lingering debris and preventing future backups. With our expertise and advanced tools, Superior Plumbing ensures a swift and lasting solution to your double drain dilemma.

Simple Fixes for a Toilet and Shower Clogged

Having a toilet and shower clogged at the same time can send shivers down any homeowner’s spine. However, before you panic, there are a few DIY tricks you can try! Did you know most people plunge toilets incorrectly? A flange plunger, with its wider base, is specifically designed for toilets, and using short, forceful pumps creates better suction than one big, ineffective shove. For the shower, try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to melt any soap scum buildup. Baking soda and vinegar can also create a fizzing reaction that might loosen minor clogs. However, if these simple solutions don’t banish the backup, don’t hesitate to call Superior Plumbing! Our expert plumbers are available 24/7 to tackle those stubborn clogs and get your Tulsa home flowing freely again. You can also visit us online at superiorplumbingTulsa.com for more plumbing tips and to schedule an appointment. Remember, a little DIY effort is okay, but for guaranteed results, Superior Plumbing is always here to save the day!

Grab the right plunger: A flange plunger, designed for toilets with its wider base, creates better suction than a sink plunger.
Pump it right: Short, forceful pumps create a stronger seal and more pressure than one big plunge.
Hot water for showers: Pour a pot of boiling water down the shower drain to melt soap scum buildup that might be contributing to the clog.
Baking soda and vinegar: Try this classic combo for showers! The fizzing reaction can loosen minor clogs caused by organic matter.

In Closing

Remember, a toilet and shower clogged at the same time doesn’t have to turn into a plumbing nightmare. With a little know-how and the right tools, you might be able to tackle the clog yourself. But if your DIY efforts don’t quite unblock the situation, don’t hesitate to call in the experts! Superior Plumbing is here for you 24/7 drain cleaning in Tulsa! We’ll diagnose and resolve any toilet and shower clogged at the same time woes. Our licensed plumbers in Tulsa are equipped with the latest technology and expertise to get your drains flowing freely again, fast.