Clogged bathroom drains are one of the most common plumbing problems in Toronto homes. At Sammy Plumbing Toronto, we believe homeowners should know how to handle minor plumbing issues before calling in the pros.
One simple and cost-effective way to unclog your bathroom sink is by using a drum auger, also known as a plumbing snake.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to clear a clogged bathroom sink drain using a drum auger—the same method we use during our Toronto plumbing service calls.
Why Use a Drum Auger?
A drum auger is a flexible, coiled cable with a cutting head designed to break through clogs. It’s perfect for:
- Bathroom sink clogs
- Shower and tub drains
- Small household blockages
Whether you’re in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, or Etobicoke, this is a tool every homeowner should have.
What You’ll Need:
- Drum auger (15–25 feet) – Available at Home Depot or Canadian Tire
- Rubber gloves – For hygiene and protection
- Safety glasses – To prevent splashes, especially if drain cleaner was previously used
- Shop towels or cloths – For cleanup
- Drop cloth – To protect your floors
- Bucket – To catch any water from the P-trap
Step 1: Remove the P-Trap
The P-trap is the curved pipe under your sink. It’s often where clogs start.
- Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch water.
- Loosen the slip nuts on either side of the P-trap. You may need a pipe wrench or adjustable pliers.
- Carefully remove the P-trap and drain the water into the bucket.
Step 2: Feed the Drum Auger
- Loosen the thumb screw on your drum auger to extend the cable.
- Push the auger cable into the drain pipe slowly until you feel resistance.
Step 3: Break Through the Clog
When you feel the cable stop:
- Tighten the thumb screw to lock the cable.
- Use the handle to rotate the drum auger, while gently pushing forward. This will either break up the clog or hook it so you can pull it out.
- After a few turns, loosen the thumb screw again, pull out about 6 inches of cable, and repeat the process.
Step 4: Remove the Auger and Test
Once you feel the clog is cleared:
- Loosen the thumb screw and slowly pull the auger cable back out of the pipe.
- Reattach the P-trap securely.
- Run water to test the drain.
If water runs freely and your connections are tight and dry, your job is done!
Pro Tips from Sammy Plumbing Toronto:
- Wear safety glasses! There could be chemicals or bacteria in the line.
- If the auger doesn’t clear the clog, the blockage may be further down the line. In that case, call Sammy Plumbing Toronto for professional drain clearing.
- For bathtubs, toilets, or main sewer lines, use a longer cable or call a licensed Toronto plumber.
When to Call Sammy Plumbing Toronto
If you:
- Can’t clear the clog after multiple tries
- Have recurring slow drains
- Notice foul smells or gurgling sounds in other fixtures
It’s time to call the pros at Sammy Plumbing Toronto. We offer emergency drain cleaning services across Toronto and the GTA, including:
- Clogged sinks and toilets
- Shower drain cleaning
- Sewer line snaking and hydro-jetting
Why Choose Sammy Plumbing Toronto?
✅ Fast, Same-Day Service
✅ Transparent, Flat-Rate Pricing—No Hidden Fees
✅ Licensed and Insured Toronto Plumbers
✅ Friendly, Family-Owned Service
Need Help With Your Drain?
📞 Call Sammy Plumbing Toronto at (416) 659-5020
🌐 Visit sammyplumbing.ca
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