When a plunger just isn’t doing the trick, it’s time to get serious with a closet auger. This type of plumber’s snake (see the sidebar “Snake Through Tough Clogs”) is specially designed with a shape that conforms to a toilet and plastic sheathing that won’t scratch the bowl’s porcelain surface.
PREP WORK
• Warning: If you have attempted to use a commercial drain cleaner to clear a clog prior to using an auger, you must take safety precautions. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself from the harsh chemicals that may splash on you during the auger process.
• Turn off the water at the toilet shut-off valve.
• If the toilet is fi lled to the rim, wait a little while to let it drain down before starting to snake it. If the bowl is
completely fi lled and stagnant, you may want to use a small bucket to scoop out some of the water and . . . stuff . I know this seems utterly vile, but better to have the muck contained in a bucket than splashing around the bathroom as you try to maneuver the snake through it.
• Lift up the toilet seat.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Closet auger
Rubber gloves**
Safety glasses*
Mask*
Bucket
Disinfectant cleaner
* If applicable
** Optional
No comments:
Post a Comment