Toilet clogged? You probably know that you should plunge it. But do you know how to use a plunger properly?
Let’s go over the basics.
Make Sure You’re Using The Right Kind Of Plunger
There are three kinds of plungers that are typically for sale at home goods stores: a cup plunger, a flange plunger, and an accordion or beehive plunger.
The best kind for a toilet is the flange plunger, which has a cup-shaped rubber end with a narrower rubber skirt on it. The flange plunger is ideal for toilets because the smaller opening will more easily form a seal around the bottom of the toilet bowl.
Turn Off The Water Supply And Get The Water Level Right
Find the water supply hose running to the back of the toilet and turn the valve clockwise until the water is off.
You need some water in the toilet bowl when you use a plunger to ensure a proper seal. But if there’s too much, you may end up sloshing that yucky water all over the bathroom. A toilet bowl that’s about half full is ideal.
Wait about 10 minutes to see if the water level drops, then adjust as needed.
If there’s too much water in the toilet, scoop some out and put it in a bucket. You can flush it down another toilet or pour it back in once the toilet you’re working on is unclogged.
If there’s not enough, pour in enough water to fill the bowl halfway.
Position The Plunger
Lower the plunger into the water at an angle to fill the rubber end with water. If you don’t, you’ll need to push gently on the first plunge to make sure that the air that escapes doesn’t send water shooting out of the toilet.
Hold the handle of the plunger at a 90-degree angle for an airtight seal. Plunging at an angle is easier but less effective.
And Plunge!
Now, plunge assertively for roughly 20 seconds, keeping the entire bell of the plunger beneath the surface of the water so you don’t break the seal. Do not flush and plunge at the same time. When water leaves the tank it breaks the seal.
Pull the plunger out and allow the water to drain for several seconds. Then try flushing the toilet. If it’s still clogged, repeat the plunging process two or three more times until the clog clears.
Note: Do not use a chemical drain cleaner. Liquid drain cleaners can cause significant damage to your pipes.
What If Plunging Doesn’t Work?
If plunging your toilet properly doesn’t work, you can try a toilet auger, a type of drain snake that’s specifically designed for toilets.
If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call in a plumber.