How to Use a Toilet Plunger?

Dealing with a clogged toilet is never fun. But don’t worry, knowing how to use a plunger in a toilet the right way can save you time and hassle. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll cover everything from understanding how plungers work to fixing stubborn blockages and knowing when it’s time to call in a pro. Let’s get your toilet back in its best condition quickly and efficiently.

What Does a Toilet Plunger Do?

How does a plunger work? A toilet plunger is designed to tackle one of the most common household problems: a blocked toilet. It works by using pressure and suction to dislodge clogs in the drain. When you push the plunger down onto the drain, it forces water into the pipes, applying pressure on the blockage. As you pull the plunger back, it creates a vacuum effect, pulling the clog free.

This alternating push-and-pull motion is what helps break up the obstruction. The purpose is to use the pressure to loosen or dislodge whatever is causing the blockage. The key to success is maintaining a tight seal around the drain, which allows the plunger to build up enough force to break through the clog.

This simple tool is effective at breaking up toilet blockages, whether they’re caused by toilet paper, waste, or even small foreign objects. The main goal is to clear the drain so water can flow freely again, restoring proper function to your toilet without the need for harsh chemicals or a plumber’s intervention.

Choosing the Right Plunger for Your Toilet

Not all plungers are suitable for toilets. For the best results, use a flange plunger, which is specifically designed for toilet drains. The flange helps create a tight seal in the narrow toilet drain, which results in better suction and a more effective unclogging process.

If you use a cup plunger (which is meant for sinks or tubs), you will not get the same results because it won’t form a tight enough seal to break through toilet clogs.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Plunge a Toilet

Preparing for the Task

Before you start, gather the necessary tools:

• Flange plunger
• Rubber gloves for hygiene
• Towels or rags to protect the floor from spills

How to Plunge a Toilet: The Technique

Position the Plunger

Insert the plunger into the toilet bowl, ensuring that the rubber flange is positioned inside the drain. The plunger should be submerged in water, as the water provides the necessary force for the plunger’s suction. If the water level is low, add some water to the bowl to ensure full coverage.

Create a Seal

Push the plunger down gently to form a tight seal around the drain. A good seal is crucial for generating the necessary pressure and suction.

Start Plunging

Begin plunging by pushing down slowly and pulling back up, making controlled, firm strokes. Keep the plunger submerged in the water to maintain the suction. Repeat for about 15-30 seconds to allow the plunger to break up the clog.

Increase Force if Needed

If the blockage is stubborn, increase the speed of your plunging motions. Use shorter, more forceful strokes to break up tougher clogs.

Test the Flush

After plunging, flush the toilet to see if the water drains properly. If the toilet begins to drain and flush normally, you’ve succeeded. If the water remains stagnant or rises, repeat the process.

Advanced Tips on How to Unclog a Toilet with a Plunger

If a plunger isn’t doing the trick, try these advanced approaches to unclog a toilet with a plunger:

Use Hot Water

Pour a bucket of hot water (not boiling) into the toilet bowl. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to help loosen the clog. Once the water has had time to work, try plunging again.

Add Dish Soap

Dish soap can be an effective tool for breaking up clogs caused by waste or grease. Add a few squirts of dish soap to the toilet bowl and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before attempting to plunge.

Use a Toilet Auger

A toilet auger is a tool designed to reach deeper into the pipes to clear blockages that a plunger can’t reach. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog far down the drain, a toilet auger could be necessary.

When You Should Call a Blocked Toilet Plumber

While most blockages can be cleared with a plunger, there are situations where you may need to call a blocked toilet plumber. Here are some situations where professional help is needed:

• The toilet is repeatedly blocked If your toilet is consistently clogged, it indicates an underlying issue, such as tree roots, pipe corrosion, or a severe blockage deeper in the plumbing system.
• Water keeps rising: If the water level in the toilet keeps rising after several plunging attempts, there could be a significant blockage that requires professional tools to clear.
• You’ve tried everything: If you’ve used a plunger, hot water, and other methods, but the toilet still won’t drain, it’s time to call in an expert for help.

A toilet repair service can address more complex issues with your plumbing system, tackling problems that go beyond a simple blockage and require expert attention.

Conclusion

Knowing how to plunge a toilet is a valuable skill that can save you from a frustrating experience. With the right plunger and technique, most blockages can be cleared quickly and effectively. However, if the blockage persists or if you’re unsure about the cause, don’t hesitate to call our team of professional blocked toilet plumbers at Fix N Flow. We’re here to help get your toilet back to normal as soon as possible.

Call us at 1300 319 275 or fill out our online form to schedule a service. Let us take care of the problem so you can get back to enjoying a fully functional toilet without the hassle.