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Clog Removal: Bathroom Clogs Clog Removal: Bathroom Clogs From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-208

Hand Auger

Bathroom clogs are very common. Using a few common plumbing tools, you can get your pipes running freely.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

1. Use a toilet auger (figure A) to snake for clogs in your toilet.

2. Unhook if from the handle, then gently let it go to the ground.

3. Slowly pull up and carefully place it in the toilet bowl (figure B).

4. Hold the auger steady as you crank, then push down the handle. You should feel a little resistance as the cable pushes up through the trap in the bowl.

5. Continue cranking until all the cable is out.

6. Rewind the cable by cranking and pulling up at the same time.

7. When it's fully out, flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.

8. Repeat if necessary.

Using a Hand Auger in a Bathroom Sink

1. Place a bucket under the p-trap

2. Wear rubber gloves.

3. Use a pair of slip joint pliers to loosen the nuts on the trap, then slowly remove the trap and dump out the debris and water into the bucket.

4. If the trap is at all damaged or rough inside, replace it.

5. Once the trap and trap arm (figure C) are removed, pull out about 18 inches of the snake and tighten the lock.

6. Work it down the stub out in the wall (figure D) until it's all in the wall or you feel the clog and can break it up.

7. Continue this process until you pass the clog.

8. If the cable gets snagged, just turn the crank to work it through.

9. Then, remove the snake and replace the trap.

10. Run water down the drain to see if the clog is cleared.