How to Auger a Water Pipe

These instructions will inform you on how to use an auger to clear a water pipe. If the auguring fails to clear the obstruction, the problem may call for chemical drain opener. It is important to understand, however, that you should never use an auger and a chemical unclogger together, due to the potential for hazardous splashback.

Things You'll Need

• Auger
• Wrench
• Wooden dowel
• Towel

Instructions

Using an Auger on Water Pipes

1. Insert the auger into the drain opening until it reaches a trap. Rotate the auger very slowly in one direction. Even if you feel the obstruction do not push against the blockage. You should instead try to either hook it or use the auger to break up the blockage.

2. Turn the handle as you feed the auger through the pipe, making sure not to force it. Forcing the auger may actually worsen the situation by kinking the auger or even potentially causing damage to the pipe itself.

3. Remove the trap if the auger does not clear the drain. To remove the trap, unscrew the coupling nut. Use a simple wooden dowel to brace the trap and make removal of the nut easier. Remove the second coupling nut.

4. Continue feeding the auger back into the pipe until it finally reaches the clog. Work the auger backward and forward, turning it as you crank. When the clog has finally been pierced, keep churning to further clear the pipe.

5. Remove the auger from the pipe and wipe clean as you reel it in. Place newspapers down to catch any sludge that drips during this part of the process. Before you reconnect the trap, make sure to clean it. Finally, flush the drain with hot water.