Having the correct plunger on hand can be the deciding factor between a painless solution and an ongoing hassle when dealing with a clogged drain. Many believe that any plunger would do the trick, but in reality, various blockages require different plunger designs. If you know which plunger to use for a certain job — unclogging a toilet or clearing out a kitchen sink — you can avoid wasting time, energy and money.
Toilet Clog
The flange plunger is the standard tool for unclogging toilets because of its ergonomic design, which is ideal for the specific contours of these drains. A gentle rubber flap extends from the plunger’s cup, creating a tight fit with the drain aperture of the toilet bowl. The flange forms an improved seal, which enhances the effectiveness of suction and pressure during plunging.
Always make sure the bowl has enough water to cover the plunger’s cup before using a flange plunger. Before sealing the drain hole, arrange the plunger at an angle to release any air trapped in the cup. To remove the obstruction, plunge the tool repeatedly and firmly.
Kitchen Sink Clog
The accumulation of food scraps, grease and other material in the drain is a common cause of kitchen sink blockages. A cup plunger, sometimes called a sink plunger, is usually the tool of choice for unclogging these types of pipes. An iconic component of this plunger design is the rubber cup, which forms a tight seal when placed on flat surfaces.
If your sink has an overflow hole, plug it before you plunge to prevent water from pooling. To make the plunger more airtight, coat its rim with petroleum jelly. Put the plunger in the drain and push down hard on it a few times to remove the clog.
Bathroom Sink Clog
Clogged bathroom sinks are usually the result of hair, soap scum and other grime and liquids from the bathroom. A cup plunger works just as well in the bathroom as it does in the kitchen. These plungers work well on most bathroom sinks because of their flat surfaces.
To get the most suction out of your plunger, remove the stopper from the sink and cover the overflow holes with a damp cloth before you plunge. Make sure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the plunger’s cup, then plunge forcefully and rapidly.
Shower Drain Clog
The accumulation of hair and soap is the most common cause of clogged shower drains. The ideal tool for unclogging shower drains is usually a specialist bellows plunger, though a cup plunger may do the trick in some cases. An accordion plunger, or bellows plunger, is a collapsible device that you can use to increase suction and pressure.
Before using, make sure the drain cover is clear of any visible debris. Next, position the bellows plunger over the drain and press down to release any trapped air. To generate suction, quickly lift up and then lower down. Continue doing this until the clog disappears.
Bathtub Drain Clog
Like shower drains, bathtub drains can get backed up with hair and soap residue. Depending on the form of the drain, a cup plunger or bellows plunger may be able to remove these obstructions. If the tub’s base is flat and close to the drain, a cup plunger may work better. The bellows plunger’s versatility makes it a good choice for drains positioned on curved surfaces or with more intricate shapes.
To achieve the best possible suction while plunging, take off the overflow plate and place a moist towel over the overflow hole. Then, fill the tub up to a few inches with water, and start plunging. Successfully dislodging the blockage requires forming a tight seal and applying constant pressure.
Floor Drain Clog
Clogged floor drains are a typical problem in basements, laundry rooms and garages. Debris, grime and even tiny objects can obstruct these drains. You can usually remove the clog with a big cup plunger or a toilet flange plunger by folding the flange back into the cup.
Covering the entire drain opening is essential for creating a proper seal. You also need to make sure the drain lid is clear of visible debris before plunging. If possible, take the cover off the drain to make things easier to reach. Plunge forcefully and frequently after adding water to the area surrounding the drain to aid in sealing it. Because floor drains have a broad aperture, it is typically necessary to use a larger plunger cup to make an effective seal and generate adequate pressure to remove the obstruction.
Laundry Sink Clog
Debris such as lint and detergent residue can easily cause a clog in a laundry sink. Cup plungers are usually the best choice for these sinks because of their smooth surface.
Make sure the sink is clean, and drain any standing water before you plunge. Put a dab of petroleum jelly on the plunger’s edge to provide a better seal, and cover the overflow hole if one is there. Place the plunger in the drain, and push down hard on it a few times.
Dishwasher Drain Clog
Though it’s not something you see every day, a small clog in the dishwasher drain can be safely cleared by plunging the drain. One option is to use a specialist sink plunger with a shallower cup, but a tiny cup plunger will also work.
Take the dishwasher out of the power outlet and empty it of any water before you try to plunge it. Then, find the dishwasher’s drain hole and set the plunger over it. To preserve the dishwasher’s inner workings, plunge carefully.
Overflow Drain Clog
Clogged overflow drains in sinks and bathtubs do happen from time to time, although they are less prevalent than clogged main drains. A tiny bellows plunger or a specialized mini plunger can work well in these tiny holes. The overflow drain is a tight spot, but these little plungers will fit right in.
Always close the main drain before plunging to keep water pressure in the overflow channel at a maximum. Avoid damaging the overflow cover or any other fixtures as you plunge gently but firmly. Fixing obstructions in overflow drains typically calls for a light touch and patience because of the small space and risk of injury.
Plunger Alternatives: What to Try if Plunging Fails
In many cases, plungers are sufficient to clear clogs; however, there are instances when they aren’t. Before contacting a plumber, there are a few things you can do in these situations. If the blockage is too deep for the plunger to reach, try using a plumber’s snake or auger. Sometimes, a combination of baking soda and white vinegar, followed by hot water, might remove small obstructions from the drain. For organic blockages like hair and soap scum, an enzyme drain cleaner is a gentler and perhaps more effective alternative to toxic chemical treatments. Hire a hydro jetting service if the blockage is really tenacious. This expert technique can remove even the most entrenched clogs with its high-pressure water jets.
Absolute Services can help you get rid of any clog in your home with our excellent plumbing services. We also provide HVAC installations, electrical services and garage door services. Contact us now to schedule drain cleaning services for your home in Lexington, KY or the surrounding areas.
