Retract and Remove Auger — Test the Toilet and Clean Up
Part of project
How to Use a Toilet Auger to Clear a Stubborn Clog · Step 6 of 6
In this video
After successfully clearing the clog, you need to remove the auger. Begin rotating the handle in a counter-clockwise direction while simultaneously pulling the handle up and away from the shaft. This retracts the snake back into the protective guide tube. Once the cable is fully retracted, carefully lift the entire auger out of the toilet bowl. Be mindful of dripping water and debris.
Goal: Remove the auger from the toilet
- The auger head will be wet and may have debris on it. Remove it carefully to avoid splashing dirty water.
Used in this video
- Toilet Auger (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Plastic, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Cable Length: Short, Protective Features: Rubber boot to prevent scratching the toilet bowl) — To be removed from the toilet.
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FAQs
Why can't I just use a regular drain snake instead of a specialized toilet auger for a stubborn toilet clog?
A specialized toilet auger, also known as a closet auger, is designed with a protective sleeve and a curved end to safely navigate the toilet's trap without scratching the porcelain. Regular drain snakes lack this protection and can easily damage your toilet bowl, leading to costly repairs. Always use the correct tool for the job to prevent unnecessary damage.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take when using a toilet auger?
Always wear heavy-duty latex gloves to protect yourself from unsanitary water and potential splashes. Consider eye protection as well. Work slowly and carefully to avoid splashing water and to prevent damaging the toilet bowl or yourself with the auger cable.
What should I do if the auger cable gets stuck or doesn't seem to be clearing the clog?
If the auger gets stuck, try rotating the handle in both directions while gently pulling back and pushing forward. Avoid forcing it, as this can damage the auger or the toilet. If you cannot clear the clog after several attempts, the obstruction might be too dense or too far down, indicating it's time to call a professional plumber.
How will I know if I've successfully cleared the toilet clog after using the auger?
After retracting the auger, first try flushing a small amount of toilet paper down the drain. If that clears easily, then attempt a full flush. The water should drain quickly and completely without backing up. Repeat the full flush once or twice to ensure the clog is fully gone and the drain is flowing freely.
Retract and Remove Auger — Test the Toilet and Clean Up
Part of project
How to Use a Toilet Auger to Clear a Stubborn Clog · Step 6 of 6
In this video
After successfully clearing the clog, you need to remove the auger. Begin rotating the handle in a counter-clockwise direction while simultaneously pulling the handle up and away from the shaft. This retracts the snake back into the protective guide tube. Once the cable is fully retracted, carefully lift the entire auger out of the toilet bowl. Be mindful of dripping water and debris.
Goal: Remove the auger from the toilet
- The auger head will be wet and may have debris on it. Remove it carefully to avoid splashing dirty water.
Used in this video
- Toilet Auger (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Plastic, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Cable Length: Short, Protective Features: Rubber boot to prevent scratching the toilet bowl) — To be removed from the toilet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I just use a regular drain snake instead of a specialized toilet auger for a stubborn toilet clog?
A specialized toilet auger, also known as a closet auger, is designed with a protective sleeve and a curved end to safely navigate the toilet's trap without scratching the porcelain. Regular drain snakes lack this protection and can easily damage your toilet bowl, leading to costly repairs. Always use the correct tool for the job to prevent unnecessary damage.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take when using a toilet auger?
Always wear heavy-duty latex gloves to protect yourself from unsanitary water and potential splashes. Consider eye protection as well. Work slowly and carefully to avoid splashing water and to prevent damaging the toilet bowl or yourself with the auger cable.
What should I do if the auger cable gets stuck or doesn't seem to be clearing the clog?
If the auger gets stuck, try rotating the handle in both directions while gently pulling back and pushing forward. Avoid forcing it, as this can damage the auger or the toilet. If you cannot clear the clog after several attempts, the obstruction might be too dense or too far down, indicating it's time to call a professional plumber.
How will I know if I've successfully cleared the toilet clog after using the auger?
After retracting the auger, first try flushing a small amount of toilet paper down the drain. If that clears easily, then attempt a full flush. The water should drain quickly and completely without backing up. Repeat the full flush once or twice to ensure the clog is fully gone and the drain is flowing freely.