Toliet clog. Can't Determine Problem

[Bortso]

I'll try to make this short. Our toilet got clogged a few days ago. No massive amounts of toliet paper was involved. I wasn't part of the initial un-clog attempt, so I don't know what exactly went down there, but here is our problem now.

- The water level is down to just a few inches
- The toilet will flush and drain slowly until it reaches that couple of inches (takes about 10 seconds), but the water level normally sits higher than that
- We tried plunging like mad using a non-bulb plunger. When I do that, its sounds relatively clear. I can hear air going in and out
- We tried an auger/snake. I've never used one before, but I stuck it in pretty far in there and felt nothing. Nothing came out either.

I'm hoping someone with more knowledge than I can help. Thank you in advance!

 

[johnjh2o]

Is the toilet auger going through the toilet? Many of the big box store augers are to small to do any good. Try the auger again if you can't clear the stoppage you may have to pull the toilet, lay it on it's side and run the auger from the bottom of the toilet.

John

 

[Bortso]

Oh geez....Pulling a toilet is likely above my capabilities. I would find a way to screw it up. I'll try the auger again

 

[havasu]

If you are still experiencing a back up with your toilet, you have two choices. Either attempt to work the auger into the toilet to release the blockage, or as John mentioned, you will need to pull the toilet. Although I'm an advocate for fixing things myself, if there is a possibility that my attempt to repair something could lead to further damage, I'll call in a specialist. They will probably have the necessary tools with them to clear up your problem easily.

 

[Bortso]

Woo hoo! I fixed it. Apparently I had gotten the wrong type of auger. I bought a small drum auger made for small drains. I went to the store and bought the larger auger designed for toilets. First shot got the clog broken up enough to flush it.

AND.....in the process I managed to scratch up the porcelain a bit. This was remedied with a little bit of bar keeper's friend, which took it right off. I am a happy man, not having to call in professional help. Thanks for the suggestions!

 

[havasu]

Great job! Thanks for the reply. Feel free to stick around with us misfits, and the other professionals here. You'll be surprised what you can learn!

 

[johnjh2o]

Way to go. Glad to here it worked out for you.

John