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If your toilet is clogged, don’t reach for the plunger just yet! There’s a good chance that you can unclog it using a toilet auger instead.
Augers are specifically designed to clear clogs in toilets, and they’re easy to use. In this article, we’ll show you how to use a toilet auger to unclog your toilet. We’ll also provide some tips if it won’t go all the way down.
What Is A Toilet Auger?
A toilet auger is a specialized tool that’s used to clear clogs in toilets. It consists of a long, flexible cable that’s fitted with a auger head at one end. The other end of the cable is connected to a handle, which you’ll use to rotate the auger head as it moves through the toilet.
Main Features
Many toilet augers offer key features that can be helpful in clearing clogs. Here are some of the most common ones:
Vinyl Guard
Some toilet augers have a vinyl guard fitted over the auger head. This is to prevent chipping of porcelain during use.
Easy Snap-on Attachment
A few models have an easy snap-on attachment that lets you quickly attach or detach the cable. This can be useful if you need to replace the cable or if you want to store the auger in a compact space.
Cable Length
Toilet augers typically have a cable that’s 3-6 feet but others go up to 50 feet long. This is usually long enough to reach the clog, even if it’s located deep in the drain.
Kink-Resistant Cable
A number of augers have a kink-resistant cable. This is to prevent the cable from becoming tangled as you’re using it.
Ergonomic Handle
Several models have an ergonomic handle that makes it more comfortable to use.
Corrosion Resistant Tube
A fair few augers have a corrosion resistant tube. This is to prevent rust and increase the durability of the tool.
Auger Head
The auger head is the business end of the tool, and it’s what actually clears the clog. The head is usually made of metal, and it has a sharp spiral that cuts through clogs. Some augers also have barbs on the head, which can help to break up clogs.
To summarise, toilet augers are very effective at clearing clogs, and they’re much easier to use than plungers. They have a number of features that can be helpful, such as kink-resistant cables and vinyl guards. If your toilet is clogged, definitely give a toilet auger a try.
How To Use A Toilet Auger?
Using a toilet auger is relatively simple. Just follow these steps:
- Put on some gloves. You don’t want to touch the dirty auger head with your bare hands.
- Insert the auger head into the toilet bowl. Push it down until you feel resistance.
- Begin rotating the auger head clockwise. Continue rotating as you push the auger head down into the clog.
- Once the auger head has pushed through the clog, continue rotating it for a few turns to loosen up the clog.
- Slowly pull the auger head out of the toilet bowl.
- Flush the toilet to see if the clog has been cleared.
If the toilet is still clogged, repeat steps 2-6. In most cases, the auger will clear the clog on the second try.
What To Do If The Auger Won’t Go All The Way Down?
If the auger head won’t go all the way down into the toilet bowl, it’s likely because you’ve hit a clog. To clear the clog, simply continue slowly rotating the auger head and pushing it down into the clog. Do not use too much force though.
If you’re having difficulty rotating the auger head, try lubricating it with some dish soap. This will help it move more smoothly through the clog.
Top Tips For Using A Toilet Auger
Here are some top tips to keep in mind when using a toilet auger:
Don’t Overdo It
Don’t use too much force when rotating the auger head. The goal is to loosen the clog, not to break through it. If the auger head gets stuck, don’t keep pushing. You could damage your toilet if you use too much force.
Clean
Be sure to clean and dry the auger head after each use. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria.
Storage
When you’re not using the auger, be sure to store it in a safe place where it can’t fall and break. A good option is to keep it in a storage bag.
Conclusion
I hope you found this guide on how to unclog a toilet using a auger beneficial. If the clog is really bad, don’t be afraid to call in a professional plumber.
Plumber’s have the proper tools and know-how to fix any clog you may have, big or small. And, in some rare cases, the auger or plunger won’t do the job.
Have you ever had to use a toilet auger before? Leave us a comment and let us know how it went!
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