Toilet Auger - A Different Kind Of Plumbing Snake

What is a Toilet Auger (also known as a water closet auger or just closet auger)? How is it different to a Plumbing Snake?

A toilet auger is a tool whose sole purpose is for use in lavatory fittings. How is it different to a drain auger?

A Toilet Auger Is Shorter

A Toiler Auger is shorter and stiffer than a standard plumbing snake snake. This is because most lavatory blockages occur quite close to the opening of the drain. The u-bend is quite tight and is the most common place for most material to become lodged.

It Has A Protective Sheath

A Toilet Auger is normally sheathed inside a protective rubber or plastic tube. This tube prevents the closet auger from damaging the porcelain surface of your bathroom fixture. It enables the cable to pass through the u-bend with causing scratches or other damage.

The Toilet Auger's Protective Tube Has A Bent End.

One end of the protective tube of the closet auger is bent. This mimics the shape of the drain and enables you to navigate the tight bends within most toilet drains.

Do you need one?

I would suggest it is a necessary item in any home handyman's toolkit. For a reasonably small sum, you can buy a closet auger and put it away until the next time your toilet fixture becomes blocked and the hardware store is closed.

Read more plumbing snake information.

The Plumbing Snake And Other Handy Plumbing Tools

We've talked about plumbing snake usage - what they are, how to use them, what types there are, etc. But what else do you need in your toolbox to tackle those domestic plumbing jobs? This article will discuss some of the other tools a home handyman might like to have tucked away ready for the next plumbing repair job.

So what tools do you need?

A Plumbing Snake

As I said at the opening, I've already discussed plumbing snakes at length. If you need a refresher or have seen the articles yet, you might like to review them here.

• What's A Plumbing Snake
• How To Use A Plumbing Snake
• Plumbing Snakes: Types and Uses
• Plumbing Snake or Chemical Cleaner

A Plunger

A plunger is used to clear minor blockages in drains. It normally consists of a wooden handle with a rubber cup on the end. The plunger works by placing the rubber cup over the opening of the drain then working the handle up and down to alternately create pressure, then a vacuum against the blockage. If successful, the blockage will be dislodged and the drain will be cleared.

A Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench is a type of adjustable wrench with toothed jaws. It's designed for turning threaded pipe fittings. A pipe wrench can be especially useful when clearing or cleaning the trap (the U-shaped pipe below the sink or basin). This may be necessary when other methods to clear a drain have been unsuccessful. Also may be required when something of value has been dropped down the sink.

Other Tools

Some tools which may be handy for more advanced jobs include a hacksaw, pipe cutter, adjustable spanner and locking pliers.

Click here for more information about how to use a plumbing snake.