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If the toilet is overflowing but there’s no clog, that’s a sign that the issue is deeper in the system, and plunging may not help. A blockage in your home’s plumbing, the plumbing vent, or even city sewer lines can cause toilets to overflow. The issue could also be the toilet itself if the filler float isn’t set to the correct height or if parts are damaged or worn out.

It is generally safe to stay in a house that smells like sewage for a short time, but you should get the problem fixed as soon as possible. While the level of sewer gas is usually low enough to only cause minor symptoms, prolonged inhalation can lead to headaches, nausea, or respiratory irritation. High levels of gas exposure can be more dangerous, and high concentrations of methane—a component of sewer gas—can pose an explosion risk in enclosed spaces. If you smell sewer gas in your home, ventilate the area and call a professional to locate, assess, and fix the problem, as it will not go away on its own.

The best thing to unclog a septic tank is a mechanical auger, especially if the clog is far down the line or particularly dense. You can also clear a clog in a septic line with a wooden pole or steel rod. Be sure to follow safety precautions when working in a septic tank, including wearing heavy-duty work gloves, goggles, and a gas mask.

There are several homemade solutions for clearing a clogged sink that don’t involve pouring harsh chemicals down your drain. Start by pouring hot (but not boiling) water down the drain. This can help dissolve and flush away grease and gunk. A splash of dish soap down the drain can also cut through fat and make it easier to clear the drain. For a more stubborn blockage, grab a plunger and give it a few firm pumps to dislodge the clog.