A Homeowner’s Guide to Snaking a Toilet in Scarborough

How many times have you flushed your toilet, and it started overflowing? Probably too many times to count, and at the most inconvenient times too. Whether someone flushed a paper towel down the toilet or it just overflowed from a slow buildup, the culprit behind clogs isn’t always easy to tell. However, the ultimate goal is to unclog your toilet. You’re probably familiar with plunging, but how about snaking a toilet in Scarborough?

Clogged toilets are primarily caused by whatever is flushed down the drain. The culprit can be anything from human waste to foreign objects. Even toilet paper can cause a clog over time. Perhaps your child flushed a toy while you weren’t looking, or someone accidentally put a baby wipe down the drain. Snaking a toilet will allow you to push deeper without excessive plunging.

If your toilet has only a partial clog, a plunger might do the job, but it can often be a frustrating and messy process. If you cannot plunge out the stubborn clog, you may need to consider snaking your toilet. Our plumbers in Scarborough, ON, have created a homeowner’s step-by-step guide to snaking a toilet.

Read on to learn more or contact us for more information!

What is a Drain Snake, and What is an Auger?

A plumbing snake is a long and flexible coil that you use to tackle drain clogs. You can either grab the material causing the clog or push it through. These are much more effective than toilet plungers, but don't have a protective coating material around the coiling to prevent damage to the curved pipes and porcelain parts. 

The differences between a snake and an auger can seem minimal, but they are different tools. They both utilize long stretches of coiled cabling, crank handles, and spear tips. An auger (also called a closet auger), however, is much more heavy-duty than drain snakes. Toilet augers are built specifically for toilets, with special guards built around the flexible coil to protect the porcelain material.

Augers wind their way down the drain until they reach toilet clogs. A snake is smaller than an auger and is not the best tool for a toilet. However, it works in a pinch if it's all you have, and it's more effective than a plunger. Drain snakes are better suited for smaller pipes, such as sink drains.

The difference between an auger and a snake, more particularly, lies in how they remove clogs. An auger forcefully clears clogs by breaking the blockage, while snakes try to remove them in the same direction they entered, using a hook to retrieve them. Luckily, using an auger and a snake is relatively similar. After all, it is called “snaking a toilet” with a toilet auger.

Step-by-Step: Snaking a Toilet

Unclogging a toilet is a common household task that many people may have to face at some point. Whether it's due to excess toilet paper, sanitary products, or other foreign objects, a clogged toilet can be a nuisance. While some clogs can be easily resolved with a plunger, more stubborn blockages may require the use of a snake or auger. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to snake a toilet effectively.

Step 1: Getting Ready 

The first step in snaking a toilet is to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment ready. This includes old towels to absorb any water splashes, a large bucket in case of overflow, and long rubber gloves as a protective sleeve from germs and bacteria. It's essential to be prepared before starting the unclogging process to prevent any mess or accidents.

Step 2: Placing an Auger into the Toilet Bowl

Once you have gathered all your supplies, the next step is to place the auger into the toilet bowl. Extend the auger into the toilet, ensuring that it points downwards into the drain. It's crucial to handle the auger carefully and to turn the handle clockwise.

NOTE: Never turn the handle counter-clockwise, as this can cause damage to the toilet or worsen the clog. Remember to only twist the handle and avoid pushing the auger forcefully. 

Step 3: Retrieve the Obstruction

As you insert the auger into the toilet, you may encounter some resistance, which is a sign that you have reached the obstruction. Gently maneuver the auger until you feel it grab onto the clog. Slowly twist the handle to break up the blockage and retrieve it from the drain. Be patient and persistent, as it may take several attempts to fully clear the clog. 

Step 4: Testing and Clean-up

After you have successfully removed the obstruction, the next step is to test the toilet by flushing it. Check to see if the water drains smoothly and if the toilet is fully unclogged. If the water levels return to normal, then you have effectively cleared the blockage. Finally, remember to clean your auger after use to prevent any lingering debris or bacteria. Additionally, clean the toilet bowl to ensure proper hygiene and sanitation. And take precautions to avoid clogs in the future by only flushing human waste and toilet paper.  

Snaking a toilet can be a straightforward and effective method for unclogging stubborn blockages. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking precautionary measures, you can successfully clear a clogged toilet without the need for professional help. However, if you encounter difficulties or are unable to remove the clog yourself, don't hesitate to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Scarborough for assistance.

What Do I Do When My Toilet is Still Clogged?

While a plunger or auger may be your solution to a clogged toilet, it is important to proceed with caution, so you don’t damage your toilet further and prevent any future clogs. When your toilet won’t unclog via plunger, snake, or auger, then it’s time to call in your local professionals for a plumbing inspection. We may also use a mechanical auger to remove the clog. Furthermore, we care that your plumbing system is in top condition, and we’ll likely suggest an overall checkup. Our hydro jetting service utilizes high-pressure water jets to efficiently remove even the most stubborn obstructions from your drains. You can count on our expert plumbers in Scarborough, ON, to get your plumbing back in good condition.