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How to Plunge Toilets Correctly


A clogged toilet is a major inconvenience. Not only does it prevent you from using the toilet, but it can also lead to unsanitary conditions in your bathroom if the clog is not removed quickly. Unfortunately, toilets can become clogged for a variety of reasons. Foreign objects such as toys or jewelry can fall into the toilet bowl, and materials can build up in the lines over time, causing a slow toilet drain. Whatever the reason for the toilet clogs, it is important to act quickly to remove it. Otherwise, you may be faced with a flooded bathroom or a house full of unpleasant odors.

When your toilet won’t flush, the first step is to try plunging it. Do you know how to properly plunge a toilet? If not, don’t worry – Buckeye Heating & Cooling explains how. Plus, we’ll recommend the right plunger for the job and give you some tips on proper technique.

Types of Plungers

There are three main types of plumbers: the cup plunger, the flange plunger, and the accordion plunger. The cup plunger is the most common type; it has a cylindrical shape and a rubber suction cup on the end. The flange plunger has a flat base and a rubber suction cup on the end. The accordion plunger is made up of several flexible sections that can be expanded and contracted.

If your toilet won’t flush properly, having the right plunger on hand is important. Read on to learn more about the different types of plungers and how they are used so you know which one to select when you need to unclog a toilet.

Flange Plunger

Most toilet plungers look like a sink plunger, with a cup-like piece at the bottom that fits over the toilet drain. A toilet plunger will also have a soft rubber flap (called a flange) that can be folded out from inside the cup. This flange helps to create a seal around the toilet drain, which is necessary for forming the suction needed to plunge effectively.

To use a toilet plunger, simply place the cup over the drain and push and pull the plunger up and down. For best results, add some water to the bowl before beginning to plunge. Be sure to keep a good seal around the drain throughout the process. With a little practice, you’ll be an expert at plunging in no time!

Accordion Plunger

Accordion plungers are designed with a simple yet effective mechanism that allows them to work well at unclogging toilets. The plunger has an accordion-style design that creates a tight seal around the drain, which helps to create suction and push the clog through the drain. Additionally, the accordion shape also helps to create more force and contact surface area when thrusting up and down, making it easier to free a toilet clog.

Sink Plunger / Cup Plunger

Sink plunger, also called a force cup, is a tool used to loosen clogs or blockages in drains. It can be used on any type of flat drain, including sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs. The plunger has a rubber suction cup that fits over the drain opening. The cup creates a seal so that when you push and pull the plunger up and down, it builds up pressure that can break through the clog. To use a sink plunger, first, fill the sink with enough water to cover the suction cup. Then place the plunger over the drain and push and pull the handle up and down. Be sure to use steady, even pressure so that the plunger doesn’t slip off the drain. Once you’ve broken through the clog, keep plunging until the water starts to drain freely. If your sink is still stopped up, you may need to use a snake or other tool to remove the rest of the blockage.

Choosing the Right Plunger

Many homeowners have faced the frustration of a clogged toilet. When this happens, it’s important to use the right plunger to get the job done. Toilet plungers come in two main types: flanged and accordion. A flanged plunger has a rubber suction cup with a flange or ring around the edge. This type of plunger is designed specifically for toilets, and it’s the most effective choice for unclogging a toilet. An accordion plunger has a plastic cup with folded pleats that allow it to expand and contract.

Stear clear of cup plungers for unclogging toilets. They simply aren’t designed for the best fit around your toilet’s drain opening. Many cup plungers have a small hole in the center of the suction cup. This hole can become clogged with toilet paper or other debris, making the plunger less effective. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid using a cup plunger to unclog toilets.

How to Unclog a Toilet

To clear a clogged toilet, you should plunge it correctly and do so as soon as you discover a clog. This will not only get rid of the problem quickly but also prevent any damage from occurring to your plumbing system!

Tools You Need

As any homeowner knows, clogged toilets are a common occurrence. Fortunately, they are also relatively easy to fix as long as you have the right tools on hand. The first step is to put on a pair of rubber gloves. This will protect your hands from any bacteria that might be present in the toilet bowl. Select the appropriate plunger for the job, either a flange plunger or accordion plunger.

Troubleshoot Before Plunging

Most of us have experienced a clogged toilet at some point. When this happens, the first instinct is to reach for the plunger. However, before you start plunging away, there is a simpler method that may just do the trick. Remove the toilet tank lid and raise the flapper valve slightly to allow just a cup or two cups of water to rush into the toilet bowl. If the water level starts to go down, then you know the clog is starting to clear. Just be sure to have towels on hand in case the water starts to overflow out of the toilet bowl.

Plunge the Toilet

If you’ve ever had the unpleasant experience of a clogged toilet, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to fix the problem: plunging. Plunging is straightforward, and all you need is a plunger and a little elbow grease. Here’s how to do it:

Position the plunger over the hole in the bottom of the bowl and make sure that the rubber rim is fully seated. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to start plunging. Push down on the handle and pull up quickly to create suction; repeat this motion until the clog is cleared.

Most people have experienced a clogged toilet at some point in their lives. When this happens, the first impulse is often to dive right in and start plunging away. However, it’s important to remember that not all plunges are created equal. In fact, your first plunge shouldn’t be very aggressive. When you first start to plunge a toilet, the plunger cup is still holding air. A vigorous plunge could send water flying up out of the toilet bowl. Instead, start with a few gentle taps on the handle to release the air and then slowly increase the pressure. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time.

Be sure to position the plunger over the drain hole and push down so that it forms a tight seal. Next, start plunging up and down, varying between medium and heavy force. After 15 to 20 plunges, stop and assess the situation. If the water is draining properly, continue plunging until the clog is gone. If not, you may need to repeat the process or try another method.

Help for Your Clogged Toilet

Plunging a toilet is not as difficult as it seems. With the right technique, you can unclog a toilet in no time at all. If you need help unclogging a toilet, our plumbers are here to help. Give us a call today to set an appointment for plumbing services. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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