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How to Unclog a Toilet

A clogged toilet is one of the most common household plumbing problems. If your toilet overflows or flushes poorly, try clearing it with a plunger. A plunger uses air to force clogs out of drains, so it's easy to use and doesn't damage pipes. If you use a hand snake or a closet snake – one made specifically for use inside toilets – take care that you don't bang the porcelain sides of the bowl. Porcelain is tough – up to a point. You wouldn't want to crack your toilet and end up replacing the whole thing.

Skill Level: Beginner
Time:
  1. Step 1 How to Plunge a Toilet

    How to Plunge a Toilet

    Place the plunger over the hole in the toilet. Plunge up and down rapidly, keeping the plunger under water and lifting it only an inch or so on every upstroke. Keep doing this for a minute or two. If it doesn't clear, use a toilet auger.

  2. Step 2 Clear Clogged Toilet With a Closet Snake

    Clear Clogged Toilet With a Closet Snake

    Feed the end of the cable into the toilet, taking care not to scratch the bowl. Crank the handle clockwise to snag the obstruction. Continue cranking while pulling the obstruction out.

     

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