There is nothing worse than discovering that your sink or toilet is clogged. There is an age-old tool that can help called a “plunger” and here are few tips to help you use it.
Remove some water first. If you have a toilet that is almost ready to overflow, simply use a cup to remove some of the liquid so that there is room for the plunger, otherwise if you push a plunger down in a full toilet, liquid will get everywhere (including on you).
Choose the right plunger. There are two styles of plungers, and each one is suitable for different types of drains. The flange plunger has an extra flap attached to the inside of the cup that makes it ideal for toilets. A plain cup plunger doesn’t have this extra rubber flap, and is best for creating seals with drain openings.
Submerge the plunger. For sinks, tubs, and showers, place the cup plunger into the bowl or basin so that the cup of the plunger is submerged in the water. For a toilet, pull the flange out from inside the plunger and submerge it in the toilet bowl.
Burp the plunger. When you insert the plunger into the water, the cup will likely trap air inside, and this will reduce the pressure created when you plunge. You need lots of force to remove a clog, and air trapped in the cup will stop this from happening.
Plunge using a vertical action. Hold the handle of the plunger with both hands. For the first plunge, gently press straight down on the handle so the cup forms a seal with the drain opening. Pull up on the handle and start plunging by pulling up and pushing down on the handle in a vertical fashion. Don’t tilt or angle the plunger, or you’ll break the seal.
Release the plunger. After 20 seconds of plunging, pull up on the plunger handle and lift it off the drain hole. Some debris might come up from the drain when you release the plunger, and it’s important to remove this from the sink or bowl before it drains back down.
Repeat the plunging. Add more water to the basin if necessary. Repeat the burping and sealing steps, and plunge for another 20 seconds. After this time, pull the plunger away. Remove any debris that comes up from the drain.
Clean and dry the plunger. You should always keep your plungers clean and dry, because moisture and cleaning products can cause the cup to crack or rip. If this happens, you will have to buy a new plunger next time you have a clog.
Not working? Then Call us at 859-533-1294 for 24 hour emergency plumbing service.
