What Size Snake Do You Need for a Toilet?

What Size Snake For Toilet?

A clogged toilet is a common household problem that can be both frustrating and embarrassing. But what if you don’t have a plunger on hand? Or what if the clog is just too stubborn for a plunger to fix? In these cases, you may need to use a toilet snake.

But what size snake do you need for a toilet? And how do you use it properly? In this article, we’ll answer those questions and provide you with everything you need to know about using a toilet snake to clear a clog.

We’ll also discuss some alternative solutions to clearing a clogged toilet, so you can be prepared for any plumbing emergency.

Snake Size Bathroom Size Recommendations
1-2 feet Small bathroom Corn snake, milk snake, or rosy boa
2-3 feet Medium bathroom Ball python, kingsnake, or milk snake
3-4 feet Large bathroom Boa constrictor, python, or green anaconda

A toilet snake is a long, flexible tool that is used to clear clogs in the toilet drain. It is typically made of metal or plastic and has a curved tip that can be inserted into the drain. When the snake is inserted, it is rotated to loosen the clog and then pulled out to remove it.

The size of the snake you need will depend on the diameter of your toilet. For most toilets, a 1/2-inch snake will be sufficient. If your toilet is larger than 12 inches in diameter, you may need a 3/4-inch snake.

How to Measure the Diameter of Your Toilet

To measure the diameter of your toilet, you will need to remove the toilet seat. Once the seat is removed, you will see two bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. The distance between the center of these two bolts is the diameter of your toilet.

To measure the distance, you can use a ruler or a measuring tape. Make sure to measure from the center of one bolt to the center of the other bolt.

What Size Snake Do You Need?

The size of the snake you need will depend on the diameter of your toilet. For most toilets, a 1/2-inch snake will be sufficient. If your toilet is larger than 12 inches in diameter, you may need a 3/4-inch snake.

You can also use a toilet snake to clear clogs in other drains, such as the sink or bathtub. However, it is important to use the correct size snake for the drain you are clearing. If you use a snake that is too large, you could damage the drain.

A toilet snake is a valuable tool for clearing clogs in your toilet. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily determine the size snake you need and use it to clear your clog.

Here are some additional tips for using a toilet snake:

  • Make sure the snake is long enough to reach the clog.
  • Lubricate the snake with a water-based lubricant to make it easier to insert.
  • Slowly insert the snake into the drain and rotate it as you go.
  • Once the snake has reached the clog, pull it out slowly and steadily.
  • Repeat this process until the clog is cleared.

If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber.

What Size Snake For Toilet?

When it comes to clearing a toilet clog, there are a few different types of snakes that you can use. The best type of snake for your particular clog will depend on the size of the clog and the location of the blockage.

In general, you will need a snake that is at least as long as the distance from the toilet bowl to the main drain. You will also need a snake that is thick enough to fit through the toilet drain.

If you are not sure what size snake you need, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a snake that is larger than you think you need. A larger snake will be more effective at clearing a clog, and it will also be less likely to get stuck in the drain.

Here is a table that provides a general guide to the size of snakes that you can use for different types of clogs:

| Clog Type | Snake Size |
|—|—|
| Small clog in the toilet bowl | 1/2-inch snake |
| Medium clog in the toilet bowl | 1-inch snake |
| Large clog in the toilet bowl | 2-inch snake |
| Clog in the main drain | 3-inch snake |

How to Use a Snake to Clear a Toilet Clog

Once you have chosen the right size snake for your clog, you can begin the process of clearing the clog. Here are the steps involved:

1. Lubricate the snake with a commercial drain cleaner or dish soap. This will help to make the snake easier to insert into the toilet bowl and will also help to loosen the clog.
2. Insert the snake into the toilet bowl, making sure that the tip is below the water level.
3. Slowly turn the crank on the snake until it reaches the clog.
4. Continue turning the crank until the clog is cleared.

If the clog is stubborn, you may need to use a longer or thicker snake. You may also need to use a plunger or a drain auger to help clear the clog.

What to Do If a Snake Doesn’t Work

If a snake doesn’t work to clear a toilet clog, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.

Here are some tips for choosing a plumber:

  • Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had plumbing work done.
  • Check online reviews of local plumbers.
  • Get multiple quotes from different plumbers before making a decision.

Once you have chosen a plumber, they will be able to come to your home and assess the problem. They will then be able to provide you with a quote for the work that needs to be done.

Clearing a toilet clog can be a frustrating task, but it is usually possible to do it yourself with the help of a snake. If you are not successful, you may need to call a plumber for help.

What size snake do I need for my toilet?

The size of the snake you need for your toilet will depend on the size of the clog. If the clog is small, you can use a smaller snake. If the clog is large, you will need a larger snake.

How do I know if I need a snake for my toilet?

There are a few signs that you may need a snake for your toilet. These include:

  • The toilet is not flushing properly.
  • The toilet is making gurgling noises.
  • There is water backing up into the toilet bowl.
  • You can see a clog in the toilet bowl.

If you see any of these signs, you should try using a snake to clear the clog.

How do I use a snake to clear a clog in my toilet?

To use a snake to clear a clog in your toilet, follow these steps:

1. First, turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will prevent any water from backing up into the toilet bowl.
2. Then, remove the toilet bowl lid.
3. Insert the snake into the drain hole in the bottom of the toilet bowl.
4. Slowly turn the snake clockwise while pushing it down the drain.
5. Continue turning the snake and pushing it down the drain until the clog is cleared.
6. Once the clog is cleared, turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet.

What if I can’t clear the clog with a snake?

If you can’t clear the clog with a snake, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to use more specialized tools to clear the clog.

How can I prevent clogs in my toilet?

There are a few things you can do to prevent clogs in your toilet. These include:

  • Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste down the toilet.
  • Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain.
  • Use a toilet brush to clean the toilet bowl regularly.
  • Flush the toilet after every use.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent clogs in your toilet.

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Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.