It’s easy to overlook one of the most common plumbing tools: the toilet plunger. However, when you find yourself facing a clogged drain, it can be a simple yet effective solution.
While a clogged toilet can be a real hassle, you need to know how to use your plunger correctly or you might make the situation worse. To help you avoid a plumbing disaster, we put together a guide on how to use your toilet plunger effectively.
How To Use Your Toilet Plunger Correctly in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Choose the Right Plunger
The first thing to note about how to use your toilet plunger is there are two types of plungers: a cup plunger and a flange plunger. The cup plunger is for sinks and bathtubs while the flange plunger is designed for toilets. Make sure you have the right plunger for the job.
Step 2: Create a Seal
To create a seal with your plunger, make sure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger's bell. If there isn’t enough water, add more until the bell is submerged. Place the plunger over the drain and push down gently to create a seal.
Step 3: Plunge Away!
Once you have a seal, push and pull the plunger up and down quickly to create suction. You should feel resistance, but keep going until the water starts to drain. Be careful not to break the seal or you'll lose suction.
Step 4: Keep Plunging
If the water drains, but the clog hasn’t completely cleared, repeat the process until the water drains freely.
Step 5: Call a Professional
If you can't clear the clog with a plunger, it's time to call a professional plumber. Don't attempt to use chemical drain cleaners or any other methods. They can damage your pipes and cause more problems.
What You Should Know About Clogs
Clogs can be a common problem in toilets. Sometimes, they can be caused by certain personal habits. For example, flushing non-degradable items such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or even small toys can lead to a clog.
Additionally, some older plumbing systems can be more prone to clogs due to rust, mineral buildup, or tree roots growing into the pipes.
While using a plunger can be an effective way to clear a clog, it's important to know when to call a reliable plumber. If you've tried using a plunger and the clog still persists, it could be a sign of a more significant issue. In some cases, the blockage could be further down the sewer line which will require professional equipment and expertise to clear.
Why Clogs Need To Be Addressed Pronto
Ignoring a persistent clog can lead to more significant problems, such as a backed-up sewer line or even a burst pipe. If you notice slow-draining water, gurgling sounds coming from your toilet, or foul odors coming from your drains, it's time to call the experts at Superior Plumbing for the best drain cleaning services.
Did You Know That These Items Are Bad for Your Drains?
It may surprise you to know that there are a lot of common household items that don’t belong down your drain.
These include:
- Food waste and food stickers
- Chewing gum
- Paint
- Hair
- Cotton balls
- Paper towels
- Bath bombs with ingredients that don't dissolve in water
- Eggshells
- Grease
- Melted candle wax
- Pasta and rice
Superior Plumbing: A Trusted Partner for Homeowners in Atlanta
At Superior Plumbing, we have over 30 years of experience providing high-quality plumbing services to homeowners and businesses in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our team of licensed and insured plumbers has the expertise, equipment, and knowledge needed to quickly diagnose and solve any plumbing problem you may have.
In addition to resolving clogged toilets, we offer a wide range of other
plumbing services, including
water heater installation and repair, leak detection, sewer line repair and replacement, and more. Our goal is to provide you with reliable, cost-effective solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Stuck With a Clog? Call Superior Plumbing
Using a plunger to clear a clogged toilet is a simple task as long as it’s done correctly. Remember to use the right plunger, create a seal, plunge away, and repeat if necessary.
If all else fails, don't hesitate to call the professionals at Superior Plumbing for expert plumbing services in Atlanta. Our experienced team of dependable plumbers is always ready to help you with any plumbing issues you may have. Contact us today at 770-422-7586 to schedule an appointment. We also provide 24-hour emergency services.
