A toilet auger, also known as a closet auger, works by mechanically breaking up or retrieving obstructions that are clogging a toilet. Here's a breakdown of its operation:
The Basics of a Toilet Auger
A toilet auger is a specialized plumbing tool designed to clear blockages in the drain of a toilet. It consists of a flexible metal rod, often encased in a protective sleeve, with a corkscrew-like tip (the auger itself). A handle allows the user to rotate and maneuver the auger.
How to Use a Toilet Auger: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how a toilet auger is typically used, based on the provided YouTube video information:
- Insertion: The auger head is carefully inserted into the toilet bowl's drain opening.
- Rotation and Pushing: The handle is turned clockwise (as mentioned in the reference), while simultaneously pushing the cable further down into the toilet. This twisting motion helps the auger to grip and break apart or retrieve the obstruction.
- Working the Area: According to the video, you can "pull it back and forth to work the area a couple of times." This helps to ensure the blockage is fully cleared.
- Retrieval or Breakup: The auger either breaks up the clog into smaller pieces that can be flushed away, or it grabs onto the obstruction so you can pull it out.
- Flushing and Cleaning: The video mentions flushing the toilet to wash off the cable. This is essential for cleaning the auger after use and verifying the drain is clear.
Why Use a Toilet Auger?
- Targeted Approach: Unlike a plunger, which relies on pressure, an auger directly addresses the blockage.
- Toilet Protection: The sleeve (if present) helps protect the porcelain of the toilet bowl from scratches.
