Both toilets clogged at the same time? It usually means there’s a blockage in the main drain line. This is the pipe that carries waste from all your fixtures to the sewer or septic tank. Stop flushing, and try plunging the nearest toilet. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call a plumber who can clear the main drain with professional tools like a snake or hydro jet.
Uh oh, both toilets are clogged! It’s a common problem, and don’t worry, you’re not alone. It can be super frustrating when you have two toilets that won’t flush. But, usually it means there’s a bigger issue somewhere in your plumbing.
The good news is that you can often figure out what’s going on and sometimes even fix it yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps to find the cause of the clog and get your toilets flushing again. We’ll cover everything from simple fixes to when it’s time to call in the pros. Let’s get started!
Why Are Both Toilets Clogged?
When both of your toilets are clogged at the same time, it’s a pretty good sign that the problem isn’t just a simple clog in one toilet. The most likely culprit is a blockage in the main drain line. This is the main pipe that all your toilets, sinks, and showers use to send wastewater out to the sewer or septic system. Here’s why that causes problems:
- Shared Drain Line: Toilets share the same main drain line. If something blocks this line, waste can’t flow away from either toilet.
- Backup: When the main drain is blocked, water and waste back up into the toilets, leading to clogs.
- Multiple Fixtures Affected: If the blockage is severe, you might also notice slow draining or gurgling in other fixtures like sinks or showers.
Common Causes of Main Drain Clogs
So, what exactly causes these main drain clogs? Here are some of the usual suspects:
- Flushing Inappropriate Items: Things like feminine hygiene products, diapers, wipes (even the “flushable” kind!), and excessive amounts of toilet paper can build up and cause a blockage.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots are drawn to the moisture in sewer lines. They can invade the pipes through cracks or joints and grow into a massive clog.
- Collapsed or Damaged Pipes: Old or damaged pipes can collapse or become misaligned, creating a spot where debris easily gets trapped.
- Grease and Oil: Pouring grease down the drain can cause it to solidify and stick to the pipe walls, eventually leading to a clog.
- Foreign Objects: Kids sometimes flush toys or other objects that can get lodged in the drain line.
Troubleshooting the Problem
Before you call a plumber, there are a few things you can check yourself to try and identify the issue. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Check Other Drains
First, check if other drains in your house are also draining slowly or are clogged. This includes:
- Sinks
- Showers
- Bathtubs
- Washing machine drain
If multiple drains are affected, it’s a strong indication of a main drain line blockage.
Step 2: Listen for Gurgling Sounds
Pay attention to any gurgling sounds coming from your toilets or other drains. Gurgling often happens when air is trapped in the pipes due to a blockage.
Step 3: Check the Sewer Cleanout
The sewer cleanout is a capped pipe, usually located outside your house, that provides access to the main drain line. It’s typically found in the yard, near the foundation, or sometimes in the basement.
Warning: Be cautious when opening the sewer cleanout. If there’s a blockage, sewage could come gushing out.
- Locate the Cleanout: Look for a short pipe with a cap, usually made of plastic or metal.
- Prepare for Potential Mess: Wear gloves and eye protection. Have a bucket and towels handy.
- Carefully Remove the Cap: Unscrew or pry off the cap. If there’s pressure behind it, loosen it slowly to allow the pressure to release gradually.
- Check for Sewage Backup: If sewage comes out of the cleanout, it confirms a blockage in the main drain line between the cleanout and the sewer or septic tank.
Step 4: Try Plunging
Even though both toilets are clogged, try plunging the toilet that is closest to the main drain line. This might help dislodge the blockage.
- Use a Flange Plunger: A flange plunger has a soft rubber flap that folds out from the bottom of the cup. This flange creates a better seal in the toilet bowl.
- Add Water: Make sure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the cup of the plunger. If necessary, add water from a bucket.
- Plunge Vigorously: Position the plunger over the drain opening, making sure the flange is properly sealed. Push and pull the plunger up and down with force, maintaining the seal.
- Repeat: Continue plunging for several minutes. If you’re lucky, you’ll feel the clog break up and the water will start to drain.
Step 5: Try a Plumber’s Snake
A plumber’s snake, also known as an auger, is a flexible tool that can be used to break up or retrieve clogs in drain pipes. You can buy one at most hardware stores.
- Insert the Snake: Carefully insert the end of the snake into the toilet drain opening.
- Feed the Snake: Push the snake down the drain, rotating the handle as you go. This will help it navigate through the pipes.
- Break Up the Clog: When you feel resistance, it means you’ve reached the clog. Continue rotating the handle to break up the clog or try to hook it and pull it out.
- Remove the Snake: Carefully pull the snake out of the drain, cleaning off any debris as you go.
- Flush the Toilet: Flush the toilet to see if the clog is cleared.
DIY Solutions
If you’ve tried plunging and snaking without success, here are a few other DIY solutions you can try:
Hot Water Flush
Sometimes, a clog can be caused by grease or soap buildup. Flushing hot water down the toilet can help dissolve these materials.
- Heat Water: Heat a large pot of water on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Pour Slowly: Carefully pour the hot water into the toilet bowl. Be careful not to splash.
- Wait: Let the hot water sit in the bowl for 15-20 minutes to dissolve the clog.
- Flush: Flush the toilet to see if the clog is cleared.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
This combination can create a fizzing action that helps break up clogs.
- Pour Baking Soda: Pour one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Add Vinegar: Slowly pour two cups of vinegar into the bowl.
- Wait: Let the mixture fizz for 30 minutes.
- Flush: Flush the toilet to see if the clog is cleared.
Dish Soap and Hot Water
Dish soap can help lubricate the clog and make it easier to flush away.
- Add Dish Soap: Pour about a quarter cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
- Pour Hot Water: Slowly pour a bucket of hot (but not boiling) water into the bowl.
- Wait: Let it sit for 20-30 minutes.
- Flush: Flush the toilet to see if the clog is cleared.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried all the DIY solutions and your toilets are still clogged, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Here are some signs that indicate you need professional help:
- Persistent Clogs: If the clogs keep coming back, even after you’ve cleared them, there could be a more serious underlying problem.
- Multiple Clogged Drains: If multiple drains in your house are clogged, it’s likely a main drain line issue that requires professional equipment.
- Sewage Backup: If you see sewage backing up into your toilets or other drains, it’s a health hazard and needs immediate attention.
- No Sewer Cleanout: If you can’t locate a sewer cleanout or are unable to access it, a plumber can help.
- Tree Root Intrusion: If you suspect tree roots are the cause of the clog, a plumber has specialized tools to remove them.
What a Plumber Can Do
A plumber has the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix more complex plumbing problems. Here are some of the services they can provide:
- Video Inspection: Plumbers can use a camera to inspect the inside of your drain pipes and identify the cause and location of the clog.
- Drain Snaking: Plumbers have heavy-duty snakes that can reach farther and break up tougher clogs than the ones you can buy at the store.
- Hydro Jetting: Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to blast away clogs and clean the inside of the pipes.
- Pipe Repair or Replacement: If the pipes are damaged or collapsed, a plumber can repair or replace them.
- Root Removal: Plumbers have specialized tools to cut and remove tree roots from sewer lines.
Preventing Future Clogs
Once you’ve cleared the clog, it’s important to take steps to prevent future problems. Here are some tips:
- Be Mindful of What You Flush: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing anything else, including feminine hygiene products, diapers, wipes, and paper towels.
- Use a Toilet Plunger Properly: Learn how to use a plunger effectively to clear minor clogs before they become major problems.
- Install a Lint Trap on Your Washing Machine: This will prevent lint from entering the drain pipes and causing clogs.
- Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Dispose of grease in a container and throw it away in the trash.
- Flush Regularly: Flush your toilets regularly, even if they haven’t been used, to keep the pipes clear.
- Consider a Septic Tank Treatment: If you have a septic system, use a septic tank treatment regularly to help break down solids and prevent clogs.
Understanding Your Plumbing System
A basic understanding of your home’s plumbing system can help you troubleshoot problems and prevent future clogs. Here’s a quick overview:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Toilet | Uses water to flush waste into the drain system. |
| Drain Pipes | Carry wastewater from fixtures to the main drain line. |
| Main Drain Line | The primary pipe that carries all wastewater from the house to the sewer or septic system. |
| Sewer Cleanout | A capped pipe that provides access to the main drain line for cleaning and inspection. |
| Sewer Line | Carries wastewater from the house to the municipal sewer system. |
| Septic Tank | A tank that collects and treats wastewater from the house. Used in homes without access to a municipal sewer system. |
| Vent Pipes | Allow air to enter the drain system, preventing vacuums that can slow down drainage. |
Knowing where these components are located and how they work can help you identify potential problems and take appropriate action.
DIY Plumbing Safety Tips
When attempting any DIY plumbing repairs, it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some essential tips:
- Turn Off the Water: Before starting any plumbing work, turn off the water supply to the affected fixture or the entire house.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from sewage and other contaminants.
- Use the Right Tools: Use the correct tools for the job to avoid damaging pipes or fixtures.
- Be Careful with Chemicals: If using chemical drain cleaners, follow the instructions carefully and wear appropriate protective gear. Avoid mixing different chemicals, as this can create dangerous fumes.
- Don’t Force Anything: If you encounter resistance when snaking a drain or tightening a fitting, don’t force it. This could damage the pipes or fixtures.
- Know Your Limits: If you’re not comfortable with a particular repair, or if you encounter a problem that’s beyond your skill level, call a professional plumber.
FAQ: Clogged Toilets
Q: Why are both of my toilets clogged at the same time?
A: It usually means there’s a blockage in the main drain line, which is the pipe that all your toilets use to send waste to the sewer or septic tank.
Q: What should I do first when both toilets are clogged?
A: Stop flushing! Then, check other drains in your house to see if they’re also slow or clogged. Try plunging the toilet closest to the main drain line.
Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog both toilets?
A: While chemical drain cleaners can sometimes work, they can also damage your pipes and are harmful to the environment. It’s better to try plunging or snaking first.
Q: How can I prevent both toilets from clogging again in the future?
A: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing anything else, like wipes or feminine hygiene products. Also, don’t pour grease down the drain.
Q: When should I call a plumber if both toilets are clogged?
A: Call a plumber if you’ve tried plunging and snaking without success, if you have sewage backing up, or if you suspect a more serious problem like tree roots.
Q: What is a sewer cleanout, and how do I use it?
A: A sewer cleanout is a capped pipe that provides access to the main drain line. Carefully remove the cap to check for sewage backup, which indicates a blockage.
Q: Can tree roots really cause both toilets to clog?
A: Yes, tree roots are a common cause of main drain line clogs. They can invade the pipes and grow into a massive blockage. A plumber can remove them.
Conclusion
Dealing with two clogged toilets at once can be a real headache, but don’t panic! By following these steps, you can usually figure out the cause of the problem and often fix it yourself. Remember to check other drains, try plunging, and consider DIY solutions like hot water or baking soda and vinegar. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to tackle more complex clogs and keep your plumbing flowing smoothly. And remember, preventing future clogs is key, so be mindful of what you flush and maintain your plumbing system regularly. You’ve got this!
