Can you snake a toilet?

Although technically you can use a regular snake (instead of a toilet snake) to unclog a toilet you really should not. The reason being that a regular snake can damage the porcelain of your toilet bowl. A toilet snake (aka toilet auger) is specifically designed to be used on toilets and will not cause any damage.

Can you snake a line through a toilet?

While you can use a regular drain snake in a toilet, a closet auger, or toilet auger, is a type of drain snake specifically designed for use in a toilet. Its unique design and protective rubber coating allow it to maneuver through the tight S-bend in a toilet without damaging the porcelain.

Can a snake damage toilet?

Damaged Porcelain — The metal tip of the plumber's snake can easily scratch the porcelain of your sinks or toilets if you're not careful. This won't just affect the appearance of the toilet or sink, but it could cause your porcelain to degrade faster.

What kind of snake can I use for toilet?

A toilet snake is a type of drain snake made specifically for use on toilets. You use a toilet snake the same way that you use a drain snake, but toilet snakes are made specifically so that they don't damage the porcelain of your toilet bowl.

Why won't my snake unclog my toilet?

If your snake isn't unclogging your drains, it could be because the thumbscrew is loose, the clog is too severe, or the auger is dirty. Or maybe you just need a refresher on how to use a drain snake. A drain auger (snake) is a simple, inexpensive necessity for every homeowner.

Unclog toilet with a plastic bottle (with no plunger)

What size snake do I need to unclog my toilet?

Because they are designed for the toughest of clogs, the cable should be no smaller than 5/8 inch in size, with a minimum length of 75 to 100 feet in length. This snake is designed to clean out drains that are 3 inches or larger, which typically includes clean outs to the street.

How much does it cost to snake a toilet?

Most plumbers will charge a flat rate for a drain snake, which will likely average between $75 and $500. When it comes to simpler clogs, expect to pay no more than $150, while more extensive blockages that require dismantling the toilet's plumbing could cost between $150 and $500.

Where do snakes hide in toilets?

Ventilation Pipes. The most common way that a snake can get into your toilet is through ventilation pipes or sewer vents that are located on your roof. The plumbing is usually connected through ventilation pipes on the roof, which means that snakes can enter the ventilation system and then your toilet.

What is the best liquid to unclog a toilet?

Experts agree: Drano Max Gel is the best overall drain cleaner because it works quickly to get rid of tough clogs.

Will a toilet unclog eventually?

When a toilet has a clog made of water-soluble materials, it has a chance of slowly dissolving in the water and freeing up the toilet to work properly again. So, clogs that are primarily made of toilet paper can clear themselves.

Do plumbing snakes work better than plunger clogged toilet?

A snake is safer to use on tough clogs than a plunger, which can apply too much pressure on the wax ring at the base of the toilet, causing it to break—and it's also gentler than a liquid dissolving solution, which can corrode your pipes.

Why won't my toilet unclog with a plunger?

So, let's recap the common reasons why a toilet won't unclog — excessive toilet paper use, non-flushable solids, hard water, and clogs in the main sewer line. Thankfully, they can be prevented via methods like double-flushing, covering the toilet bowl, routine inspections and dealing with tree roots.

Can snaking a toilet damage pipes?

A drain snake used with too much force being can scratch a zinc pipe and damage the coating. This can lead to cracks or rusting in the pipes opening the door to a major problem in the future.

What happens if a snake goes down a toilet?

Since there is no air in an anaerobic septic tank, a snake won't survive there for very long before it'll run out of air to breathe. However, if the snake lands in an aerobic septic tank, where there is plenty of oxygen, it might survive there for a given length of time.

How do you deep clean toilet pipes?

Mix 2 parts baking soda and 1 part salt and pour down the drain. Warm 4 parts vinegar and pour down on top of the baking soda and salt. It will bubble and fizz. Let it work for 15 minutes and then flush through with hot water.

What causes snakes in the toilet?

Snakes can only get into this hole through the tank but this only happens if the cover of the tank is broken, not sitting properly or has been deliberately removed and the flush siphon is not in place. The flush siphon usually covers the top of this pipe from inside the tank.

Where are snakes most likely to hide in a house?

Snakes will hide behind the refrigerator, under the oven, under your bed, or inside cabinets. Snakes will avoid human activity. Some of the most common areas of the house to find a snake include crawl spaces, basements, garages, and attics (can snakes climb?)

What chases snakes away?

Natural repellents including sulfur, clove and cinnamon oil, and vinegar may help repel snakes. Pour these substances around the perimeter of your property, any place you have noticed snake activity.

What does a plumber use to unclog a toilet?

To unclog toilets that couldn't be fixed with a plunger, use a toilet auger. Also called a plumbing snake, this flexible coil of wire is designed to extend into pipes and clear obstructions without damaging the plumbing.

When should I call a plumber for a clogged toilet?

Should you snake your own toilet?

Although technically you can use a regular snake (instead of a toilet snake) to unclog a toilet you really should not. The reason being that a regular snake can damage the porcelain of your toilet bowl. A toilet snake (aka toilet auger) is specifically designed to be used on toilets and will not cause any damage.

How do you unclog a toilet without a plunger snake?

DIY Wire Hanger Drain Snake

To do this without a plunger, unravel a wire coat hanger until it's straight. Push one end of the wire into the clogged area. Prod the debris until it becomes free and flows down the drain. A drain auger is a better choice, but the wire hanger will work in a pinch.

What happens if toilet snake doesn't work?

If you can't unclog the toilet using a plunger or a snake, your next best option is to use boiling water. Boiling water can help to dissolve the clog and free up the pipes. To use this method, bring a pot of water to a boil and pour it into the toilet. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then flush the toilet.