How to Use a Toilet Plunger

A simple fix to save time and money

Using a plunger may seem simple, but like any tool, a toilet plunger can be ineffective if not used properly. Having a plunger available can save a home a fortune on plumbing bills and other costs associated with clogged drains.

Hard to improve a good thing

There are two common styles of toilet plungers, the classic design and a more complex snaking design. However, the designs are very similar and are used in the same way.

The classic plunger has been in use since before World War II and consists of a wooden of plastic handle and a large rubber suction cup attached to the bottom end.

The suction cup creates a seal, even over curves, and allows the user to push and pull a drain obstruction loose using the created suction. These plungers are usually fine for general use, but may have problems creating a good seal in certain toilets or sinks.

The other common design is similar, adding a short, flexible tube-like application to the bottom of the suction cup. This design makes for a better suction as the tube can snake into the rim of the toilet drain.

The suction unit on these plungers is collapsible which, when the user is plunging, applies more pressure and is more effective at removing clogs.

DIY plumbing 101

Basic operation, is simple:

To use a plunger, simply place the suction end over the drain of the toilet or sink. Check to make sure the rubber ring on the bottom of the suction cup is in contact and allowing as close to an airtight seal as possible.

Push into the drain using the handle, slowly. Then, pull up quickly, but carefully so as not to break the seal. This process may need to be done several times until the clog is broken up.

If the plunging does not work, one option is to try adding a small amount of chemical clog remover to the process. The combination may succeed where one alone would fail. Even the simple addition of Vinegar or baking soda to the water may help and will be less harmful to the user if the water is splashed out.

No home should be without a toilet plunger and it is advisable to have one plunger for each toilet in the home as well as one to use on sinks, showers and bathtubs.

More information on augers & plungers