How to Snake a Toilet Drain Line

If you've plunged your toilet numerous times but can't unclog it, you'll need to snake the toilet drain. This requires a drain auger. You'll feed this flexible metal device down the toilet drain to loosen and dislodge the clog. You can find an auger at your local plumbing supply store and handle this problem on your own without the expense of hiring a plumber.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket

Instructions

1. Insert the drain auger into the toilet bowl and put the bent end of the auger into the bowl's trap. Feed the auger down the drain until you reach the clog.

2. Turn the auger handle clockwise, pushing down more into the clog to hook it with the end of the auger. Pull the handle back and forth until the clog is dislodged.

3. Pour a bucket of water down the toilet bowl to see if the water drains down. If not, continue turning and pushing the handle of the auger until you dislodge the clog, then pour water down the bowl again until it flows freely.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands when using the auger.

• Don't flush the toilet until you see that water from the bucket flows freely down the toilet drain, or the toilet could back up on you.

References

• Home Tips: How to Snake a Clogged Drain
• This Old House: Clear Any Clogged Drain
• Hometime.com: Unclogging Drains