Plunger 101: How to Properly Use It

Plunger on Wooden Floor Against Grey Wall with Copyspace 3D Illustration

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Being an essential necessity nowadays, indoor plumbing has become a major importance to every household, especially during plumbing emergencies such as having clogs. As some clogs may require expert assistance to fix, others only require a little effort from you and your trusty plunger.

 

There are several types of plungers and most of them are self-explanatory, but depending on your approach when using them, you could be plunging your way to nothing. Keep in mind these following tips to boost your efforts the next time you try to clear a clog your own way:

 

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLUNGER

Plungers can come in an array of sizes for a range of drain types and diameters, so you may want to start by choosing a plunger with a diameter that is slightly bigger than the drain. Plungers also come in two styles: a standard one and a flange plunger. Standard plungers are basic ones that have a plain cup that resembles half of a sphere, while flange plungers have an additional extension that makes it more efficient for plunging heavily clogged toilets.

 

WATER LEVEL IS IMPORTANT

The water level is essential no matter what drain you are plunging. If too much water is in the drain, then plunging your way through it will cause it to burst all over the place and may make it much worse if it is a clogged toilet. If the water level is too low, then getting a proper seal around the drain would be impossible. The best way to go around it is to make sure that the water level is just deep enough for the plunger cup to be fully covered, and if water needs to be scooped out, always wear rubber gloves and a bucket or a cup to put the excess water into.

 

MAXIMIZE PRESSURE

Plugging up drains that are located nearby means putting more pressure on the clog. For example, if you are about to plunge your toilet because of a clog, placing stoppers in the sink drains and bathtub will help boost pressure. In addition, you can always use a wet washcloth if a stopper is needed.

 

SEAL THE DEAL

It will all be about the seal when you are ready to plunge away. Smearing a bit of petroleum jelly on the lip of the plunger or flange might do the trick. It is also important to make sure the rim is making contact all the way to the drain, and ensure that the plunger handle is pointing all the way up.

 

KEEP PLUNGING

After having secured your seal, plunge your way straight up and down for at least 30 seconds. You may need to try this for at least a few times if necessary, but if after a few rounds of proper plunging and it still does not get the job done, you can contact the experts of Hayes Plumbing for additional assistance.

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