How Do You Unclog a Toilet That Won’t Plunge?
I understand that dealing with a clogged toilet can be frustrating, especially when a plunger doesn’t seem to help. In this guide, I’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions to unclog your toilet using a toilet auger, which is the best and most efficient option for homeowners in such situations. I’ll also include troubleshooting tips, safety precautions, and advice on preventing future clogs.
Unclogging Your Toilet with a Toilet Auger
What is a Toilet Auger?
A toilet auger, also known as a closet auger or toilet snake, is a specialized plumbing tool designed specifically for unclogging toilets. It consists of a long, flexible metal cable with a curved auger head at one end and a handle at the other end. The auger head is used to break up or dislodge blockages in the toilet drain, while the handle allows you to control the movement and rotation of the cable.
The design of the toilet auger enables it to navigate the twists and turns of the toilet’s trapway, reaching blockages that are not accessible with a plunger. The curved auger head helps protect the porcelain surface of the toilet bowl from scratches while effectively breaking up or retrieving the clog.
Toilet augers are an essential tool for homeowners and plumbers alike, providing a safe and efficient method for dealing with stubborn toilet clogs without the need for harsh chemicals or disassembling the toilet.
How to Unblock Your Toilet With a Toilet Auger
Here’s a more detailed explanation of each step involved in using a toilet auger to unclog a toilet:
- Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands: Wearing rubber gloves is essential when dealing with toilet clogs, as it helps protect your hands from germs and bacteria present in the toilet. Gloves also provide better grip while handling the auger.
- Retract the flexible end of the toilet auger by turning the handle counterclockwise until it is fully inside the auger tube: Before inserting the toilet auger into the drain hole, make sure the flexible cable and auger head are retracted into the tube. This prevents any accidental scratches on the toilet bowl surface while positioning the tool.
- Insert the flexible end of the toilet auger into the drain hole, making sure the curved part of the auger head is facing upwards: Carefully guide the auger head into the drain hole with the curved part facing up. This orientation helps the auger head navigate through the curves of the toilet trap without causing damage to the porcelain.
- Turn the handle clockwise while gently pushing the auger further into the drain hole: As you rotate the handle clockwise, apply gentle pressure to push the auger cable further into the drain hole. The combination of rotation and forward motion helps the auger head move through the toilet trap and towards the blockage.
- When you feel resistance, continue turning the handle clockwise to break up the blockage or hook onto it: Once you encounter resistance, it’s likely that you’ve reached the clog. Keep rotating the handle clockwise to either break up the blockage or securely hook onto it, depending on the nature of the clog.
- Pull the auger out slowly, turning the handle counterclockwise to retrieve any debris: After breaking up or hooking onto the blockage, gently pull the auger cable out of the drain hole while turning the handle counterclockwise. This motion helps retrieve any debris caught by the auger head.
- Flush the toilet to see if the water drains properly: After removing the auger, flush the toilet to check if the water drains normally. If the clog persists, repeat steps 3-6 as needed.
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively use a toilet auger to unclog a toilet that won’t plunge. Remember to be gentle with the tool to avoid damaging your toilet, and always follow safety precautions.
Troubleshooting Tips and Safety Precautions
- Always wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria and germs.
- Be gentle when using the toilet auger to avoid scratching the porcelain or damaging the pipes.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes and are harmful to the environment.
- If the blockage persists after multiple attempts with a toilet auger, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage to your plumbing system.
Tips to Prevent Future Clogs and Properly Maintain Your Toilet
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing items such as wet wipes, cotton balls, or sanitary products.
- Use a smaller amount of toilet paper per flush.
- Regularly clean your toilet, including the drain hole, to prevent build-up of debris.
- Consider installing a toilet with a larger trapway to reduce the likelihood of blockages.
- Keep a plunger and toilet auger on hand for quick and easy access in case of a clog.
Conclusion: Tackling Stubborn Toilet Clogs with Confidence
In conclusion, unclogging a toilet that won’t plunge can be a challenging and frustrating experience for homeowners. However, by following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can effectively tackle stubborn clogs using a toilet auger, which is the best and most efficient option in such situations.
Remember to take necessary safety precautions like wearing rubber gloves and being gentle with the tool to avoid damaging your toilet or pipes. Additionally, keep in mind the troubleshooting tips and maintenance advice to prevent future clogs and ensure a properly functioning bathroom.
Armed with the knowledge and techniques shared in this guide, you can now approach toilet clogs with confidence and resolve them efficiently, saving time and money that would otherwise be spent on professional plumbing services. So, the next time you face a toilet clog that won’t plunge, reach for the toilet auger and clear the blockage like a pro!
What Can You Pour Down a Toilet to Unclog It?
Can Washing Up Liquid and Boiling Water Unblock a Toilet?
How Do You Unclog a Toilet With Baking Soda and Vinegar?
How Do You Unblock a Badly Blocked Toilet
Self-Proclaimed Property Maintenance Expert
Welcome to ToolPick.co.uk, My name is Ken Miller, I am a very photo shy individual, but would like an image that represents me on my site, the animation on the left describes me perfectly, and will be a common theme throughout the site.
I have a lot of knowledge on general property maintenance that I would like to share. I have been involved in property maintenance for the last 22 years and have gained a wide range of knowledge on various topics that come under property maintenance.
ToolPick.co.uk will specialize in recommending tools and products that that fit under the home and garden category. I do get a commission on products I recommend, however, I will always give my honest opinion on recommended products.
Contact me at: enquiries@toolpick.co.uk
