Clogged drains are an all-too-common frustration that most homeowners will face at some point. Whether it’s a blocked sink filled with food debris and soap scum, a shower drain clogged with hair, or a toilet that won’t flush due to an excess of toilet paper, the result is always an inconvenient disruption to our daily routines. While numerous tools and techniques are available to tackle these plumbing issues, the trusty plunger is one of the simplest and most effective.
Having the right plunger at hand—be it a flange plunger for your toilet bowl or a sink plunger for kitchen and bathroom basins—can mean the difference between an easy fix and a full-blown plumbing emergency. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to effectively use a plunger to dislodge the stubborn clogs that disrupt your drain system.
We’ll offer tips on creating a tight seal, the importance of using even pressure, and the role of hot water in aiding the process. We’ll also discuss how to protect your plumbing system, from the sink basin to the drain pipes, as you maintain the flow of running water throughout your home. So grab your plunger, and let’s dive into the art of clearing those blocked drains.
Understanding the Plunger
Plungers are essential tools in any household’s battle against clogged drains. There are three main types of plungers, each designed for different types of drains.
- Cup Plunger: This is the most common type and is best suited for blocked sink drains where the plunger cup can lay flat over the drain opening, creating a tight seal necessary for effective plunging.
- Flange Plunger: With an extended rubber flange beneath the cup, a flange plunger is shaped to fit the curves of a toilet bowl, making it ideal for unclogging toilets.
- Accordion Plunger: These are made of harder plastic with an accordion-like design that can produce a lot of force. They are also meant for toilets but can be more difficult to use.
Understanding how plungers work is crucial. They clear blockages by creating a vacuum seal over the drain hole and using force air and water to dislodge the clog. When you push down on the plunger, it forces air and water down the drain pipe. Pulling up creates suction, which can help to break up the blockage.
When to Use a Plunger
Plungers are the go-to tool for many types of clogs, particularly those caused by everyday waste such as toilet paper, hair and soap scum, or food debris in kitchen sink drains. However, if you’re dealing with a severely blocked drain that involves hard objects or if there are signs of a plumbing system backup, such as water coming up in nearby drains, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
It’s also important to note that if a plumbing emergency involves sewage or rapidly leaking pipes, you should immediately contact plumbing services rather than attempt to use a plunger.
Preparing to Use the Plunger
Before tackling your clogged drain, it’s important to be properly prepared with the right tools and materials. Start by selecting the appropriate type of plunger for the job—a flat plunger for sinks and a flange plunger for toilets.
Have old rags or towels ready to lay around the area; this will help protect your floors from any water that might spill out as you work. Remember to wear rubber gloves to keep your hands clean and safe from bacteria and potential debris. Keep a bucket close by to dispose of any excess water or waste you might need to remove.
To ensure you’re ready to begin, clear away any visible debris from around the sink or toilet to minimise the chance of creating further blockages. If you’re working on a sink, remember to seal off the overflow hole with a wet old rag; this is crucial for creating a strong vacuum when you start to plunge. With your gloves on to protect your hands, you’re now set to commence the unclogging process confidently.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Plunger
Step 1
If you’re working with a sink, ensure there is enough water to cover the rubber cup of the sink plunger. For a toilet, the flange plunger should also be submerged in enough water to create a seal inside the toilet bowl.
Step 2
If the plunger doesn’t fit tightly, apply petroleum jelly to the edge of the plunger cup to create a better seal.
Step 3
Place the plunger directly over the drain hole and press down gently to push the air out without splashing.
Step 4
Once you’ve achieved a good seal, use even pressure to push and pull vertically. Be careful not to lift the plunger upright to maintain the vacuum seal.
Step 5
After several pushes and pulls, pull the plunger off the drain opening with a final sharp tug to help dislodge the clog.
Step 6
If water drains quickly, the blockage is cleared. If not, repeat the plunging process. After multiple attempts without success, consider using a drain snake or calling a professional.
Tips and Tricks
When dealing with stubborn clogs, a good initial step is to run hot water into the sink basin, which can help to soften and break down common blockages such as soap scum or grease. However, pouring boiling water down the drain might be necessary for more tenacious clogs, particularly those caused by fats and oils, provided you’re not dealing with PVC pipes, as the high temperature can damage them.
For an alternative approach, you could try a homemade concoction of a half cup of baking soda followed by a half cup of vinegar. This combination produces a fizzing action that can sometimes dislodge the clog.
After allowing enough time for the mixture to do its work, grab the plunger and give it another go. Just remember the effectiveness of your plunging depends largely on creating a tight seal around the plunger cup to ensure the best possible suction.
Aftercare: Once the Drain is Unblocked
After you’ve successfully unclogged a drain, it’s important to clean and sanitise the tools and be involved in the process. Begin by thoroughly cleaning your plunger; rinse it with hot water and then apply a disinfectant to eliminate any germs or residue that may be lingering on the surface.
Following that, take some time to disinfect the sink, tub, or toilet bowl with a quality disinfectant cleaner to ensure that all traces of the blockage and any associated bacteria are completely eradicated. As part of your routine maintenance, make it a habit to flush your drains with hot water regularly. This practice helps prevent the build-up of debris and keeps your drain system functioning effectively, reducing the likelihood of future clogs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When attempting to unclog a drain, it’s crucial to avoid using excessive force while plunging, as this can lead to water splashing back and possibly causing damage to the drain pipes. It’s also important to be persistent because some clogs might not yield immediately and could require repeated plunging efforts to dislodge.
The effectiveness of your attempts will also depend on whether you’re using the correct plunger for the job; a sink plunger is designed for use on flat surfaces like sinks, while a toilet plunger, with its flange, is specifically crafted for the toilet’s shape. Additionally, while do-it-yourself plumbing can often be effective, it’s vital to be mindful of serious plumbing issues.
If you encounter a problem that seems beyond the scope of a simple clog, or if you’ve been unable to clear the blockage after several attempts, it’s wise to call a professional plumber. Seeking expert assistance is better than risking further damage to your plumbing by continuing to tackle a potentially complicated issue on your own.
Alternative Methods for Unblocking Drains
While a plunger is often sufficient for dealing with blocked drains, there are other methods and tools that can help, such as:
- Drain Snake (or Drain Auger): This flexible, coiled tool can be inserted into the drain pipe to physically dislodge a blockage that’s further down the pipe system.
- Chemical Drain Cleaners: These are strong chemicals that can dissolve clogs but should be used cautiously, as they can be harmful to the environment and may damage pipes over time.
- Wet and Dry Vacuum: A powerful wet and dry vacuum can sometimes suck out a clog if the vacuum seal is strong enough.
- Professional Drain Cleaning Services: For persistent or complex problems, professional services have the expertise and equipment necessary to resolve the plumbing issue without causing damage to your plumbing.
Plunge into Peace of Mind with Service First Plumbing
While a blocked drain can be a source of significant annoyance, it’s reassuring to know that with a bit of effort and the correct plunging technique, many clogs can be resolved without the need for professional intervention. Remember to choose the right type of plunger for the task—whether it’s a sink plunger for flat surfaces or a flange plunger for your blocked toilet—and to apply the methodical push-and-pull action with patience and care.
However, some blockages are too stubborn or indicate more severe plumbing issues requiring expert attention. In those instances, Service First Plumbing is here to help. Our professional team is equipped to handle everything from minor clogs to major plumbing emergencies with efficiency and expertise. We’re committed to restoring your home’s plumbing to its optimal condition with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Don’t let a clogged drain dampen your spirits or your schedule. If you face a plumbing challenge beyond the plunger’s power, don’t hesitate to reach out to Service First Plumbing. Our services are designed to provide swift, reliable solutions to all your plumbing needs, ensuring peace of mind and a free-flowing home. Contact us today, and let us take care of the rest. Your drains—and your household—will thank you.
FAQs
How can I tell if a clog is too big for a plunger?
A clog may be too big or too solid for a plunger if, after several attempts of proper plunging technique, the water does not start to drain or if there’s no change in the water level. Additionally, if you notice water backing up into other fixtures or if there are gurgling sounds from the plumbing system, the blockage may be affecting your main drain system. It could require a professional plumber’s attention.
Can I use a plunger on all types of clogs?
A plunger is most effective on clogs caused by organic materials like food scraps in the kitchen sink, hair and soap scum in shower drains, or toilet paper in toilets. However, plungers might not work well on clogs caused by hard objects, mineral build-up, or grease and oil build-up that has solidified. In these cases, alternative methods such as a drain snake or professional services may be necessary.
How do I clean a plunger after use?
After using a plunger, it should be cleaned to prevent the spread of bacteria and remove any debris clinging to it. Here are the steps:
- Rinse the plunger in the toilet or sink with running water to remove other debris.
- Disinfect the plunger by submerging it in a mixture of bleach and water or spraying it with a disinfectant cleaner.
- Rinse the plunger again with hot water.
- Allow the plunger to air dry completely before storing it to prevent mould growth.
What are the signs that I need to call a professional?
You should consider calling a professional plumber when:
- The clog persists after repeated attempts to unclog it with a plunger and other DIY methods, such as a drain snake or baking soda and vinegar.
- There is water backing up into other fixtures when you use sinks, showers, or toilets, indicating a blockage in the main sewer line.
- You notice bad odours coming from the drain, which can signify a deeper blockage that needs professional intervention.
- There are signs of water damage, such as leaks in the ceiling or walls, which could indicate a broken pipe.
- You encounter a plumbing emergency, like a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet, where immediate professional help is needed to prevent further damage to your home.
What should I do if the water level rises instead of drains when I use a plunger?
If the water level begins to rise in your clogged sink, tub, or toilet when you’re attempting to use a plunger, it’s a sign that the clog isn’t shifting and the water you’re displacing has nowhere to go. Stop plunging to avoid an overflow, and wait a few minutes to see if the water level decreases.
If it doesn’t, you may need to try a different approach, such as a plumber’s snake or auger, to break up the clog. If these methods do not work or if you are uncomfortable performing them, it’s time to call in professionals like Service First Plumbing, who can safely and effectively clear your drains without causing damage to your pipes.
Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid clogged drains?
Prevention is the best approach when it comes to clogged drains. To keep your pipes flowing smoothly, avoid flushing anything other than waste and toilet paper down the toilet.
In the kitchen, use a sink strainer or drain stopper to catch food scraps and avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, as it can solidify and cause blockages. Use a hair catcher in the shower or bathtub in the bathroom to prevent hair from going down the drain.
Regularly clean your drain stoppers and pour hot water down the drains once a week to help dissolve any buildup. Service First Plumbing can offer further assistance and advice to keep your drains clear and fully functional if you’re faced with repeated clogging issues despite these preventive measures.
