Get matched with top toilet pros in Tupelo, MS

To test for toilet leaks, use water coloring in the water tank and see if the water slips into the bowl from the tank. This test will indicate if there’s a problem with the flapper or refill tube. You can also put water coloring in the bowl of the toilet to see if there is a leak there. If there is, you should see the colored water on the outside of the toilet bowl or on the floor. 

The normal water level in a toilet bowl is about halfway full. The water should sit above the P trap drain because this creates a seal and suction. When you flush the toilet, the suction keeps sewer gases from entering your house through your toilet. Anytime the water level is higher or lower than half full, you need to make adjustments or replace broken parts.

Emergency plumbers charge a significantly higher rate than for standard service, typically 1.5 to 3 times the normal hourly cost. You can expect to pay between $100 and $500 per hour, with an average of around $200 per hour. In addition to the higher hourly rate, many plumbers charge a flat emergency service or trip fee, which can be between $150 and $300. The final cost depends on the timing of the call; prices are highest for major holidays, followed by weekends and after-hours service on weekdays. For a complex job on a major holiday, a master plumber's rate could reach as high as $600 per hour.

While technically possible, it is unlikely that a clogged toilet will fix itself. Clogs caused by water-soluble materials like toilet paper or human waste may eventually break down in the water, allowing flow to resume. However, this can take time, and any clogs from solid objects require manual removal. In most scenarios, especially if you don't have another bathroom, it is best to fix the clog yourself or call a plumber.