How To Snake A Toilet: A Easy Step By Step Guide
Using a plumbing snake to unclog a toilet can be very helpful when a plunger just isn’t enough. This article will explain how to use a plumbing snake, also called an auger, to remove tough clogs and get your toilet working again. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from picking the right snake to step-by-step instructions on how to use it properly. Whether you enjoy DIY projects or just need a quick fix, learning how to snake a toilet is a useful skill for home maintenance.
Tools You Need
Before you start unclogging your toilet, gather these tools:
- Drain Snake (Auger): This flexible tool helps you remove blockages in the toilet.
- Large Bucket: Use it to catch any water and prevent spills.
- Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands from germs and dirty water.
How to Snake a Toilet
Prepare the Area: First, get the space around the toilet ready for any mess. Place a large bucket nearby and put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Step 1: Insert the Auger
Carefully place the end of the auger into the toilet bowl and point it towards the drain. Turn the handle clockwise to push the auger cable into the drain towards the clog.
Step 2: Find the Clog
As you extend the cable, you’ll feel resistance when you reach the clog. Stop turning the handle at this point.
Step 3: Break Up the Clog
Move the auger back and forth gently to help break up the clog. Then start turning the handle to pull the cable back. The goal is to break the clog into smaller pieces so it can flush away.
Step 4: Clean Up
Once you have pulled the auger back, dump any debris into the bucket. Repeat the process until the clog is completely broken up and the toilet flushes normally.
Extra Tips
- Safety First: Always wear rubber gloves and old clothes to protect yourself from messes and germs.
- Gentle Use: Turn the auger handle gently to avoid scratching the toilet bowl.
- Prevent Future Clogs: To prevent clogs, be mindful of what you flush. Avoid flushing items like wipes, cotton balls, and sanitary products.
Regular Maintenance
- Check for Leaks: Look around your toilet regularly for signs of leaks or water damage.
- Clean Regularly: Clean your toilet bowl and tank to prevent buildup of minerals and grime.
- Inspect Parts: Regularly check the flapper, fill valve, and other parts inside the tank to make sure they’re working properly.
When to Call a Plumber
While most people can handle a clogged toilet, there are times when it’s best to get professional help:
- Persistent Clog: If you can’t clear the clog after several tries, it might be time to call a plumber.
- Foreign Object: If something other than waste or toilet paper is causing the clog and you can’t remove it with an auger, a plumber can help.
- Sewage System Leak: If you think there’s a leak in the sewage system, call a plumber right away.
- Other Toilet Problems: If your toilet has issues like continuous running, strange noises, or constant water flow that you can’t fix, call a plumber to diagnose and repair the problem.
How To Snake a Toilet With a Drum Auger
Using a drum auger to clear a toilet clog is an effective method that requires patience and care. Here’s a step-by-step guide with some additional tips:
Step 1: Prepare the Area: Before you begin, make sure to prepare the area around the toilet. Place a large bucket nearby to catch any debris and put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Step 2: Secure the Auger Housing: Hold the auger housing firmly with one hand to keep it steady. This ensures that the cable moves smoothly into the drain without slipping or causing any damage.
Step 3: Insert and Extend the Auger: Carefully place the end of the auger into the toilet bowl, pointing it towards the drain. With your other hand, turn the handle clockwise to extend the auger cable into the drain. Move slowly and gently to avoid damaging the toilet bowl or the cable.
Step 4: Locate the Clog: As you extend the cable, you will feel resistance when it reaches the clog. This is your cue to stop turning the handle. The resistance indicates that the cable has reached the blockage.
Step 5: Break Up the Clog: Gently push and pull the auger back and forth a few times to break up the clog. Your goal is not to pull the entire clog back up but to break it into smaller pieces that can be flushed down the toilet.
Step 6: Retract the Auger and Clean Up: Once you’ve worked the clog, start turning the handle counterclockwise to retract the cable. Remove the auger from the toilet and dump any debris into the bucket you prepared earlier. You may need to repeat this process until the clog is completely cleared and the toilet flushes normally.
How To Snake A Toilet With A Hanger
If you don’t have a plumbing snake, you can use a wire hanger to unclog your toilet. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Get Ready: First, gather your tools. You’ll need a wire hanger, a large bucket, and rubber gloves. Straighten the hanger, leaving one end hooked to help with the clog.
Step 2: Make a Handle: Bend the other end of the hanger to create a handle. This will make it easier to hold and maneuver.
Step 3: Insert the Hanger: Carefully insert the hooked end of the hanger into the toilet bowl, aiming it towards the drain. Be gentle to avoid scratching the toilet.
Step 4: Push and Twist: Slowly push and twist the hanger to work it through the drain and towards the clog. Use a gentle motion to break up or hook onto the clog.
Step 5: Break Up the Clog: When you feel resistance, it means you’ve reached the clog. Move the hanger back and forth gently to break it up. Try to hook any debris and pull it out. Be patient and avoid using too much force.
Step 6: Flush the Toilet: After working on the clog, flush the toilet to see if the water drains properly. If the clog persists, you may need to repeat the process or consider using a proper plumbing snake or calling a plumber.
How Much Does It Cost For A Plumber To Snake A Toilet
The cost to have a plumber snake a toilet can vary based on several factors, such as the severity of the clog, your location, and the plumber’s rates. Typically, you might pay between $100 and $275 for this service. If the clog is more severe or affects the main sewer line, the cost can be higher, ranging from $150 to $500. In some cases, especially if special equipment is needed, the price can go up to $800.
Some plumbers charge a flat fee, while others charge by the hour. It’s a good idea to get a quote before the work starts to avoid any surprises. Also, emergency services might cost more if you need help outside of normal business hours.
Hiring a professional plumber can save you time and prevent damage to your plumbing system, making it a worthwhile expense for difficult clogs you can’t fix yourself.
How to Snake a Toilet Without Scratching It
Unclogging a toilet can be tricky, especially if you want to avoid scratching it. Here’s a simple guide to help you:
Gather Your Materials
- Toilet Auger: Pick one with a rubber coating to prevent scratches.
- Rubber Gloves: To keep your hands safe from germs and debris.
- Large Bucket: Place it nearby to collect any debris.
Step 1: Prepare the Toilet
- Make sure the toilet bowl is mostly empty. If there’s still water, use a plunger to reduce the water level.
Step 2: Insert the Auger
- Gently insert the rubber-coated end of the auger into the toilet bowl, aiming it toward the drain. If your auger doesn’t have a coating, wrap a soft cloth around the end to protect the toilet.
Step 3: Turn the Handle
- Slowly turn the handle clockwise to feed the auger cable into the drain. Use gentle, steady movements to avoid scratching the bowl.
Step 4: Locate the Clog
- When you feel resistance, you’ve reached the clog. Stop turning the handle and gently push and pull the auger to break up the blockage.
Step 5: Break Up the Clog
- Move the auger back and forth to break the clog into smaller pieces. Avoid using too much force to prevent damage.
Step 6: Retract the Auger
- Carefully turn the handle counterclockwise to retract the auger. Remove any debris from the auger and place it in the bucket.
Step 7: Flush the Toilet
- Flush the toilet to see if the water drains properly. If the clog persists, repeat the process until the toilet flushes normally.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, using a plumbing snake is a great way to clear a clogged toilet when a plunger doesn’t do the job. By carefully inserting the auger, finding the clog, and gently moving it to break it up, you can fix the problem without damaging the toilet. Remember to wear gloves and use gentle motions to avoid scratches. If the clog doesn’t clear or you can’t fix it, it’s a good idea to call a plumber. Also, regular checks and being mindful of what you flush can help prevent clogs in the future.
FAQs
Q: What do plumbers recommend to unclog a toilet?
A: Plumbers often recommend using a hydro jet to unclog a toilet. A hydro jet uses high-pressure water to break up even the toughest blockages in a toilet drain. The strong stream of water can clear clogs that a plunger or auger might not be able to reach or dislodge. This method is particularly effective for clogs that are deep within the plumbing system and hard to access with other tools.
Q: Can I snake my toilet?
A: Yes, you can snake your toilet. Toilet snakes, also known as augers, can reach deeper into the drain system and are more effective at breaking up or removing stubborn clogs that a plunger can’t handle. They are also safer for your plumbing, as too much plunging can sometimes damage the wax ring at the base of the toilet. Using a toilet snake can be a great way to clear tough clogs without causing harm to your plumbing system.
Q: Why is my toilet snake not working?
A: If your snake isn’t unclogging your drains, there could be several reasons why. The thumbscrew might be loose, the clog might be too severe, or the auger could be dirty. Alternatively, you might just need a quick refresher on how to use a drain snake properly. A drain auger, also known as a snake, is a simple and affordable tool that every homeowner should have. Proper usage is key to effectively clearing clogs and keeping your drains running smoothly.
