Break Up and Retrieve Clog — Work the Clog
Part of project
How to Use a Toilet Auger to Clear a Stubborn Clog · Step 4 of 6
In this video
Once you feel the clog, work the auger back and forth. You can retract the cable slightly, then advance it again several times to either break the clog apart or to securely hook it with the auger's spiral head. To retrieve the clog, set the directional switch to the reverse position ('R') and squeeze the trigger. This will pull the cable and the hooked obstruction back out of the toilet drain.
Goal: Clear the obstruction
- You could retract the cable then go forward and repeat several times to either break up or pull out the clog.
- The spiral in the front of the snake could catch large obstructions.
Used in this video
- Drain Auger (brand: POPULO, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Power Source: Cordless) — Breaking up and retrieving the clog.
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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.
Break Up and Retrieve Clog — Work the Clog
Part of project
How to Use a Toilet Auger to Clear a Stubborn Clog · Step 4 of 6
In this video
Once you feel the clog, work the auger back and forth. You can retract the cable slightly, then advance it again several times to either break the clog apart or to securely hook it with the auger's spiral head. To retrieve the clog, set the directional switch to the reverse position ('R') and squeeze the trigger. This will pull the cable and the hooked obstruction back out of the toilet drain.
Goal: Clear the obstruction
- You could retract the cable then go forward and repeat several times to either break up or pull out the clog.
- The spiral in the front of the snake could catch large obstructions.
Used in this video
- Drain Auger (brand: POPULO, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Power Source: Cordless) — Breaking up and retrieving the clog.
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.