How to Use a Plumber’s Auger

A blocked drainage may turn out to be a huge household nightmare. Although using chemical drain cleaners may be a quick solution, it will destroy your pipes in the long run. The auger of a plumber, or a drain snake, comes in handy there. It is a cheap and easy-to-use device that every homeowner should know how to use.

We are going to take you through this guide and explain what an auger is, how to use it safely, and the steps to follow to dissolve sink, tub, and toilet blockages.

What Is a Plumber’s Auger?

The plumber’s auger is a metal cable in the form of a coil secured on a handle. The end of the cable dislodges or attaches itself to obstructions, so you may then draw them out or force them through the drain.

There are several types of augers:

Handheld drain auger - Ideal sinks and tubs

Closet (toilet) auger - This is a toilet-specific design

Motorized auger - Used when the drain line is tough and deep

For most household uses, a handheld or toilet auger will do the trick.

When Should You Use a Plumber’s Auger?

You should consider using a plumber’s auger when:

· Water does not drain fast or even at all

· A plunger hasn't worked

· You suspect a deeper clog in the drain

· You want to avoid harsh chemicals

Common places to use an auger include:

· Bathroom sinks

· Kitchen sinks

· Bathtubs and showers

· Toilets

What You'll Need

Before getting started, gather these tools and materials:

· Manual or toilet type plumber auger

· A bucket or old towels

· Rubber gloves

· Flashlight (optional)

· Wrench (not compulsory to sink traps)

Safety Tips Before You Begin

Using an auger is generally safe, but here are some precautions to follow:

· Wear gloves to shield your hands against viruses or rough particles.

· Do not press the cable to extract the life out of your pipes.

· Familiarize yourself with the pipes - older plumbing can fail.

· When working with water, unplug all the electrical gadgets around the sink or the tub.

How to Use a Handheld Drain Auger (For Sinks & Tubs)

Step 1: Remove the Drain Cover

With sinks and tubs, take down the drain stopper or drain cover. A screwdriver may be required based on the type of the fixture. Use flashlight to examine the depth of the clog.

Step 2: Insert the Auger Cable

Insert the auger cable end into the drain. Push it gradually, turning the handle clockwise. This assists the cable to twist and bend through the pipes.

Tip: Doing this slowly and gradually is better when going around turns in the pipe.

Step 3: Feel for Resistance

You will sense some resistance after a certain amount of time when the handle is turned; that is probably the obstruction.

When this happens:

· Continue flipping to loosen up the conch

· Grasp and drag back, and push on

· Repeat this movement until the clog will be hooked or pushed through

Step 4: Retrieve the Cable

After feeling that the clog is clear, carefully draw the cable out. There might be gunk, hair or debris on the end of the auger. If so, wipe it off with your gloves in a bucket or a trash bag.

Step 5: Flush the Drain

Turn on hot water for a couple of minutes to wash out any residue in the drain. Replace the drain cover.

How to Use a Toilet Auger

Toilet clogs are common, but using a toilet-specific auger is crucial to avoid damaging the porcelain bowl.

Step 1: Insert the Auger into the Bowl

Insert the rubber elbow of the auger in the toilet bowl. This section is used to guard the porcelain against scratches.

Step 2: Extend the Cable

Turn the handle to push the cable up the trap of the toilet. You will find it getting hard against the choke.

Step 3: Break Up the Clog

Rotate the handle up and down maintaining light pressure. This will either loosen the clog or hook it so that you can remove it.

Step 4: Pull Out the Auger

After removing the clog, withdraw the cable into the handle, and take the auger out of the toilet bowl.

Step 5: Test the Flush

Flush the toilet to determine whether the water drains or not. If it does, you're good to go!

What If the Auger Doesn’t Work?

If you’ve used an auger and the clog is still there, it might be time to:

· Test an extended or motorized auger

· Check the P-trap (for sinks)

· Call a licensed plumber

The root of trees, broken pipes, or deep clogs can be persistent and only removed with the help of professional tools.

Cleaning and Storing Your Auger

After use, clean your auger to prevent rust and bacteria buildup:

· Wash the cable using warm water.

· Clean it with disinfectant.

· Allow it to dry thoroughly, and then withdraw it to the handle.

· Keep it in a cool place, and ensure it’s not in reach of children.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Clogs

Using an auger is helpful, but preventing clogs in the first place saves time and hassle. Here’s how:

· Do not pour grease in kitchen drains.

· Apply hair catchers on bathroom sinks and tubs.

· Do not flush any other items other than toilet paper.

· Always run hot water after use of sinks to ensure that the pipes are not clogged.