From Drips to Deluges — How to Handle Overflowing Bathtubs, Sinks, Toilets, and Washing Machines

Chicagoland homeowners know there are few scenarios as alarming as hearing the sound of flowing or dripping water in your house — and then discovering liquid gushing onto your floor from an overflowing fixture.

A seemingly minor plumbing issue can quickly escalate into a major disaster, causing structural damage, fostering mold growth, and racking up expensive repair bills.

From a slowly dripping faucet to a sudden and highly unpleasant sewage backup, these occurrences may permanently damage your property if not addressed immediately. 

The experts at PuroClean of Evanston have put together this handy guide on handling backed-up sinks, bathtubs, toilets, and washing machines quickly and efficiently.

Important Background

Before delving into solutions, it’s crucial to grasp why fixtures overflow or your home’s plumbing clogs. 

Most local sewers in the Chicago area (and in other older cities around the world) were built over 100 years ago. Since then, the population has exploded and the region has been experiencing more severe weather, including higher levels of precipitation, which can lead to system overload and dangerous flooding. 

Common household culprits include blocked drains from accumulated hair and debris, faulty overflow drains failing to divert excess water, damaged seals around faucets or appliance hoses, malfunctioning appliances with pump or sensor issues, and simple user errors like forgetting to turn off faucets. 

Identifying the underlying cause is key to preventing future incidents and determining whether professional help is needed to restore your residence.

Act Swiftly, But Safely

Time is of the essence when dealing with an overflowing appliance. The longer the water sits, the greater the risk of damage to floors, walls, and ceilings. 

However, safety always comes first. If there are any sparking or electrical issues, immediately unplug the appliance (if applicable), turn off the power at the breaker box, and call a qualified electrician before proceeding. 

Shut off the water source immediately. For sinks and tubs, locate the shut-off valves that are typically found beneath the fixture or in a nearby access panel. 

For washing machines, turn off both hot and cold water valves behind the appliance. Most washing machines have a drain hose located at the back. Detach the hose and position it into a bucket or sink to drain the excess water.

Once the water and electricity are shut off, these critical steps will help you minimize the destruction and regain control of the situation:

• Clear the drain if possible, removing any visible blockages. You may need to use a plunger or drain snake for stubborn clogs.
• Contain the spread of moisture using towels, mops, and buckets to prevent it from reaching other areas of your home.
• Remove standing liquid with a wet/ dry vacuum, mop, or toweling to minimize damage to floors and surrounding surfaces.
• Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors to promote air circulation and accelerate drying.
• Document the damage with photos and videos for insurance purposes.
• If the overflow has caused significant damage or you’re unable to resolve the issue, don’t hesitate to contact the Paramedics of Property Damage™ at PuroClean of Evanston. 

Once you’ve contained the flooding, take a moment to assess the level of devastation. Be on the lookout for:

• Visible water stains: These indicate water has seeped into walls or floors, potentially causing structural issues.
• Warping or buckling: Water damage can cause wood floors, cabinets, and drywall to warp or buckle.
• Mold growth: If water sits for more than 24-48 hours, mold spores can start to germinate. Stay vigilant for musty odors or discolored patches on surfaces.
• Sewage: These types of overflows pose serious health risks and require specialized cleaning and disinfection techniques in case of biohazards.
• Hidden leaks: Sometimes, overflows originate from hidden leaks within walls or under floors. A professional restoration company can locate the source of the leak and perform necessary repairs.

Prevention and Management of Common Household Nightmares

Bathroom and kitchen sinks are especially prone to overflows due to clogged drains, damaged or improperly installed p-traps, faulty garbage disposals, and blocked vent pipes. 

To minimize the risk of sink overflows, use drain strainers to catch debris and avoid pouring oil, grease, or materials like coffee grounds down your drains. Running very hot water through the pipes regularly can help prevent buildup, and scheduling professional drain cleaning annually can keep your plumbing in top shape.

Invest in a water alarm. These are small devices that can detect leaks and overflows. They emit a loud alarm when they come into contact with water, alerting you to a problem before it becomes a disaster.

Replacing old or outdated fixtures and appliances is vital to preventing destructive household accidents. Over time, faucets, washing machine hoses, and other connections can deteriorate and become prone to leaks. Consider replacing these aging components before they fail and cause expensive mischief in your family’s sanctuary.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, overflows can still happen. When they do, professional help is often necessary to ensure your home is thoroughly dried and restored.

At PuroClean of Evanston, we understand the stress and disruption that can be caused by water damage. Our team of certified professionals is available 24/7 to provide emergency response, water removal, structural drying, and complete restoration services — reach out to us today!