When it comes to unclogging a toilet, there are two common tools people reach for, but which one is best: toilet auger vs plunger? While both can be effective in clearing a blockage, they each have their own pros and cons.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between a toilet auger vs plunger and when to use each one.
Toilet Auger Vs Plunger : Toilet Auger Pros and Cons
A toilet auger is a tool that uses a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like tip to break up and remove blockages from the toilet drain. To use a toilet auger, you insert the cable into the toilet bowl and turn the handle to feed the cable into the drain. Once the cable reaches the blockage, you turn the handle in the opposite direction to break up the blockage and remove it from the drain.
Pros of Toilet Auger
Using a toilet auger is generally less messy than using a plunger since it doesn’t create as much suction.
Has a bulb head that grabs onto clogs and also cleans out the sides of your pipes
Cons of Toilet Auger
Using too much force with a toilet auger can damage the toilet bowl or drain pipe.
Toilet Auger Vs Plunger : Plunger Pros and Cons
The plunger is the most common tool used to unclog a toilet. It’s a simple device made of a rubber cup attached to a handle. When using a plunger, you place the cup over the drain in the toilet bowl and push down on the handle to create suction. Then, you pull the handle back up, which creates a vacuum that can dislodge the blockage.
Pros of Plunger
Plungers are relatively inexpensive, and you can find them at any hardware store
Lightweight and Portable
Plungers can be effective at clearing uncomplicated clogs caused by toilet paper, human waste, or other small objects
Cons of Plunger
Using a plunger can be messy and unsanitary, especially if the blockage is not cleared quickly
Using too much force with a plunger can damage the toilet bowl or drain pipe
Toilet Auger vs. Plunger: Which is Better?
Is a Toilet Auger Better than a Plunger?
Plungers are made for very shallow clogs of organic material like hair or TP and poop.
If you have any foreign debris in the toilet pipes, like if your kids flush something down there, an auger will be necessary to restore flow. That’s because an auger has a bulb head on the end of the cable to grab debris from inside the pipes and pull it out as you retract the cable.
Auger cables are also either 3 or 6 feet long, so they can DEEP into the toilet pipes to find whatever is causing the clog and remove it. Plungers just use the power of suction to remove clogs, which isn’t as effective.
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When to Use a Plunger
A plunger is a good choice when you have a simple blockage caused by toilet paper, human waste, or other small objects. Plungers are also a good option if you need to clear a blockage quickly and don’t have time to use a toilet auger.
When to Use a Toilet Auger
A toilet auger is a good choice when you have a severe blockage or a blockage caused by a foreign object, such as a toy or a hairbrush. Toilet augers are also a good option if you’ve tried using a plunger and haven’t had any success.
What Plunger do I Use for Which Clogs?
| Plunger | Use |
|---|---|
| Sink | Sink Drains |
| Flange | Toilet |
| Accordion | Toilet |
Toilet Clog Prevention
Here are some tips to prevent future toilet clogs:
- Don’t flush too much TP down the toilet at once
- Flush multiple times during a big poop
- Watch that the kids don’t flush anything
- Don’t flush any wipes down the toilet. It doesn’t matter if they say they are “flushable”. They aren’t. Most of my service calls are for this issue.
- Clean out your pipes twice per year with a toilet auger
- Don’t flush cat litter: it turns into cement in your pipes
- Don’t flush paper towel
- Don’t flush large feminine hygiene products
- Grease should be poured into a container and thrown out, not down your toilet
Cost of Hiring a Plumber Versus Buying a Toilet Auger
Hiring a plumber to unclog your toilet costs anywhere from $100- 250, depending on the area and how complicated the clog is. A toilet auger can be as cheap as $30. You can also use your toilet auger as many times as you like, so I consider it an investment.
When to Call in a Pro
If you’re still unsure which tool to use, or if you’re not confident in your ability to use a toilet auger safely, it’s always a good idea to call in a professional plumber. They can quickly and safely unclog your toilet using the right tools and techniques, and can also provide advice on how to prevent future clogs from occurring.
More Toilet Vs Plunger Information
Need a step by step on how to use a toilet auger or a plunger? Take a Look at our detailed posts below for help:
Toilet Auger Vs Plunger Conclusion
The choice between a toilet auger vs plunger comes down to the severity and frequency of your toilet clogs, as well as your personal preferences and skill level. For minor blockages, a plunger is usually the best choice, while for more stubborn or frequent clogs, a toilet auger may be necessary.
FAQs
Check out our toilet auger reviews HERE to choose the best one for you and your budget.
