How to Unclog a Toilet With a Drain Snake

How to Unclog a Toilet With a Drain Snake

Clogged toilets can be a frustrating household issue, but with the right tools and know-how, you can clear most blockages efficiently without calling a plumber. A drain snake, also called a closet auger, is a specialized tool designed for toilets and can be your best ally when plungers fail to resolve the clog.

Understanding Why Toilets Get Clogged

The most common causes of a clogged toilet are excess toilet paper or non-flushable items that get stuck in the trap or drain pipe. Sometimes, smaller objects accidentally dropped in the bowl can block water flow. Knowing this will help you take the right steps for clearing the clog.

What You Need to Unclog a Toilet

• Drain snake (closet auger): This tool is specifically shaped with a plastic-coated curved end to protect toilet porcelain and designed to navigate toilet traps.
• Rubber gloves: For hygiene and hand protection.
• Towels or rags: To clean up any splashes or drips.
• A bucket: Optional but useful to remove excess water if necessary.
• Plunger: A flange plunger designed for toilets is good to try before using a snake.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Drain Snake to Clear a Toilet

Using a closet auger correctly is crucial to avoid damaging your toilet and efficiently clearing the blockage. Here’s a comprehensive process:

1. Prepare the Area and the Toilet

• Put on rubber gloves and place towels around the base of the toilet to catch any spills.
• If the water level in the bowl is very high, scoop out some water with a small container to prevent overflow during snaking.
• Turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet to avoid accidental refilling during the process.

2. Insert the Drain Snake Properly

Insert the curved end of the closet auger into the toilet bowl’s drain opening, aiming to follow the shape of the trap to avoid scratching the porcelain. The plastic coating protects the toilet surface during this step.

3. Twist the Handle and Feed the Snake

Start turning the handle clockwise while gently pushing the snake into the drain. Continue this until you feel resistance, which usually means you’ve reached the clog.

4. Break Up or Retrieve the Obstruction

When you feel resistance, keep turning the handle to either break up the blockage or hook onto the clog to pull it back out. If the auger won’t move forward or backward smoothly, pull it back slightly and try twisting again.

5. Withdraw the Snake and Test the Toilet

Once you break through or retrieve the clog, carefully pull the auger back out. Avoid scratching the toilet and dispose of any debris captured on the snake. Then turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet to check if the blockage is cleared.

Additional Tips for Preventing and Dealing with Toilet Clogs

• Don’t flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes (even if labeled flushable), feminine products, paper towels, and excessive paper can cause clogs.
• Be cautious not to overload your toilet with too much toilet paper at once. Try flushing more frequently with less paper each time.
• Educate household members about proper toilet use to avoid future clogs and plumbing issues.
• If plunging doesn’t work, try the drain snake before calling a plumber. It’s an effective, affordable DIY solution.
• For persistent or repeated clogs, you may need professional inspection for plumbing or pipe issues beyond just a surface blockage.

When to Call a Plumber

While many restroom clogs can be fixed with a plunger or auger, certain signs indicate a more serious plumbing problem:

• The toilet remains clogged even after using a drain snake.
• Multiple drains in your home are slow or backing up.
• The clogged toilet causes frequent sewage smells or leaks.
• You suspect a blockage deeper in the main sewer line.

If any of these apply, it’s wise to consult a professional plumber to avoid damage or sanitation hazards.

FAQs

Can I use a metal drain snake instead of a closet auger for a toilet?

A metal drain snake made for sinks or showers is not recommended for toilets because it can scratch and damage the porcelain. A closet auger has a plastic tip designed specifically to protect toilet surfaces.

How often do I need to snake my toilet?

Most toilets do not require snaking regularly. Only use a drain snake when you experience a clog that plunger use cannot resolve.

Is a plunger more effective than a drain snake?

For minor clogs caused by toilet paper or waste, a flange plunger is often sufficient. However, for more stubborn clogs or solid objects, a drain snake is more effective as it can mechanically break up or retrieve obstructions.

Can I flush chemical drain cleaners down a toilet to clear clogs?

Chemical drain cleaners are generally not recommended for toilets as they can damage the toilet’s porcelain surface, plumbing pipes, and are hazardous to handle. Mechanical methods like a plunger or auger are safer and usually more effective.

What if my toilet keeps clogging frequently?

Frequent clogs may indicate issues such as low water pressure in the tank, an obstructed or improperly installed trapway, or problems in the sewer line. Having a plumber assess the system may be necessary.