How to Use a Snake to Unstop a Toilet

Clogged toilets are a messy situation that no one really cares to deal with. It can go from bad to worse if you cannot unclog the toilet using a plunger. In this case, a plumber's snake may help you do the job. This tool has a handle that connects to a long, coiled metal or rubber "snake" that goes through pipes to unclog the toilet. A plumber's snake is often your last resort before getting professional help.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Towels
• Plumber's snake
• Plunger

Instructions

1. Lay towels around the toilet to absorb any water that spills from the bowl.

2. Uncoil a few feet from the plumber's snake. Slowly insert the snake into the toilet, maneuvering around the internal curves of the pipe.

3. Twist the plumber snake handle as you continue to insert the snake. You can twist the handle both clock wise and counterclockwise to help clear the toilet.

4. Push the snake directly into the toilet when you feel a blockage in the pipes. This is most likely the clog. Water may begin to drain as you clean the pipes.

5. Remove the snake and clean it, if necessary.

6. Flush the toilet once the clog is gone. Additional water flowing through the pipes will help flush away any remaining debris or blockage.

Tips & Warnings

• After removing the majority of the log, you can use a plunger to help finish the cleaning and unclogging process to finish the job.

References

• "Big Book of Home How-To"; Better Homes and Gardens; 2003