Clogged toilets are an annoying problem many of us have faced at some point in our lives. Fortunately, with the right tools, you can unclog your toilet relatively easily and without the help of a professional. In this blog, we will explore how to properly plunge a clogged toilet so that you can quickly solve the issue and get back to life as usual. Read on to discover a step-by-step guide for using a plunger to unclog even the toughest of toilets!
What You Will Need
In order to unclog your toilet with a plunger, you will need:
- A plunger
- A bucket
- Gloves (optional)
If you have these items on hand, then you are ready to get started!
Step By Step Guide To Unclogging The Toilet With A Plunger
If you have a clogged toilet, don’t despair! You can usually fix the problem yourself with a plunger. Just follow these simple steps:
- Remove any excess water from the bowl with a cup or bucket. This will make it easier for the plunger to create suction.
- Place the plunger over the drain hole inside the toilet and make sure there is a tight seal.
- Push and pull the plunger up and down several times. The suction should help to break up or push the clog down the line.
- Once the clog is gone, flush the toilet to rinse away any residual mess, and to confirm if the clog has been fixed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your plunger is not working, here are a few things you can try:
- If the water in your toilet is particularly low, try adding more water until it’s about halfway up the bowl. This will give the plunger something to work with.
- Make sure you are using the right type of plunger for your toilet. There are different types of plungers for different plumbing fixtures, so using the wrong one will not be effective.
- Put hot water in a bucket and pour it into the toilet bowl and let it sit for 15 minutes, the hot water may help break up whatever is causing the backup. Try plunging the toilet again.
- If the plunger still is not working, you may need to call a professional to help you unclog your toilet.
Victory Or Time Call In A Professional?
A clogged toilet does not have to mean an emergency plumber. With a few simple tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can handle the job yourself by using a plunger. In this step-by-step guide, we’ve shown you how to unclog your toilet with just one tool: a plunger! Hopefully, this article was helpful and has given you the confidence to take on this common plumbing problem without having to call in reinforcements. However, if there is a bigger problem that the plunger could not solve, it might be time to call the plumbing professionals at Instant Plumbing and Rooter! 480-353-7267
Accordian Toilet Plunger
Sink Plunger Only
Flange Toilet Plunger
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I’m using the right type of plunger?
A: To effectively unclog a toilet, you need a flange plunger, which has an extended rubber flap below the dome-shaped part. This design fits better into the toilet drain and creates a stronger seal compared to a standard cup plunger, which is more suitable for flat surfaces like sinks.
Q: Can I use chemicals to help break down the clog before plunging?
A: While some people use chemical drain cleaners, we recommend caution. These chemicals can be harsh and potentially damage your plumbing. A safer alternative is to use hot water and a bit of dish soap to help loosen the clog before plunging.
Q: What should I do if the water level in the toilet is too high to plunge?
A: If the water level is too high, you risk spilling it while plunging. Before you start, use a bucket or cup to remove some water from the bowl. Aim for the water level to be about halfway up the bowl for effective plunging.
Q: How long should I try plunging before deciding to call a professional?
A: Give it a good few minutes of consistent plunging. If the clog doesn’t clear after several attempts and adjustments, it might be time to call a professional. Persistent clogs could indicate a deeper issue in your plumbing system.
Q: Is it normal for the toilet to require multiple flushes after unclogging?
A: Yes, it’s quite normal. After you’ve successfully unclogged the toilet, multiple flushes help to clear out any remaining debris in the pipe. Just be cautious and ready to stop the flush if the water level rises too high again.
Remember, if you’re ever in doubt or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact Instant Plumbing and Rooter at 480-353-7267 for professional assistance!
