Start with the right plunger for the job. There are two types of plungers on the market today: the cup plunger and the flange plunger. The cup plunger – probably the most familiar – is the best choice for sinks, bathtubs and showers. The flange type provides an extended rubber lip that provides a better seal when working on toilets. Purchase a combination plunger, it does all the jobs below.
Make sure your plunger is in top shape. A plunger is something you buy once and leave in storage until you need it. Yet that sitting around time can be hard on it. Any tears, cracks or damage can take away from the proper shape, meaning the vacuum seal is reduced when in use. If you notice any cracks or tears, it’s time to replace it.
Never use a plunger after pouring chemicals down the drain. Some of the harshest chemicals in our lives are in drain cleaning solutions. If you plunge after use, you risk pulling chemicals back up and splashing them not only around the surface, but also back on you, your skin and your clothing.
Too much water can cause a big mess and reduce the effectiveness. If your tub or sink has several inches of standing water, remove some of the water first to gain better access to the drain. It will also give you more leverage to plunge easier.
Make sure you have a tight seal. Make sure you have full contact with the sink, tub or toilet and cover the hole completely. This allows a full air stream to work on its targeted location.
Sink, Tub or Shower:
1. Use a standard cup plunger.
2. Cover up the overflow drain with a wet rag or cloth to give you more traction.
3. Seal the plunger cup completely over the drain opening.
4. Push up and down with forceful thrusts. Repeat for 15 to 20 seconds before checking flow.
Toilet:
1. Use the flange on your plunger.
2. If the bowl is full, remove water until it is half full. If it is empty, fill with water so it is half full.
3. Place the plunger in the bowl and completely cover the drain opening. Push down and pull up with forceful thrusts to concentrate the pressure for 15 to 20 seconds. Get angry with the clog. Don’t be a wimp. Test the toilet by flushing about 6 or seven layers of toilet paper. If this flushes well re-test 3 or 4 times. If a plunger doesn’t do the job, the next step is a closet hanger.