Clogged toilets are one of those everyday hassles that can send you into a tailspin. As the water starts to rise you are likely going to start to panic but it’s important to keep a level head. Plungers are an excellent tool to have on hand but only if you know how to use them. We’ll cover the best tools to use when tackling stubborn clogs and when to call in the experts!
Dislodge Blockages and Prevent Future Clogs in Toilets
Sewer systems are more sensitive than they let on. There are plenty of home remedies on the internet but many of these can end up doing more harm than good. If you are already dealing with a clog adding a bit of dish soap or a cup of baking soda and vinegar can end up making the issue worse.
When you start to notice slow drainage, grab a plunger and try to get ahead of clogs before they become serious. Plungers use pressure and suction to dislodge clogs but how effective they are depends on how tight the seal is around drains. There are plenty of plungers on the market so it’s important to ensure that you are using the best tool for the job.
Standard Plungers: When you think of a plunger, you’re probably thinking about this one! A wood or plastic handle and a rubber dome on the bottom. The goal is to have the rubber form a tight seal around the drain. These are great for flat, open surfaces like sinks, bathtubs and showers, but aren’t the most effective for toilets.
Flange Plunger: Plungers with a flange on the bottom are better suited for dealing with clogged toilets. The reason is that the extended flange is smaller and able to form a tighter seal over the curved drains. The flange can be used for sinks and shower drains but is designed to accommodate toilet drains.
Accordion Plungers: These tools are designed as a single piece of plastic with ridges, giving it the shape of an accordion. Complex designs make using these plungers a little more complicated but when you get it right, they’re incredibly effective. These are best suited for stubborn clogs but be careful! Because accordion plungers are made of plastic and not rubber they can scratch surfaces.
If you’ve tried your hand at plunging but aren’t seeing a positive result, just avoid flushing and call a plumber!
Treating Toilet Clogs: Avoid a DIY Disaster
If you don’t happen to have a plunger on hand, it’s always better to consult with an expert before taking a DIY approach. A standard porcelain toilet is susceptible to damage. Aiming to use household items to dislodge the clogged material from a toilet drain can cause cracks or scratches. These don’t just look bad, they open the door to rust and corrosion. Everything from wire hangers to drain snakes can cause surface damage to toilet bowls.
Just about everyone has a plastic bottle of liquid drain cleaner sitting in the back of the cupboard. When you can’t seem to clear a clog it seems like a no-brainer to put these to use. If there is corrosion, damage or weakening within your plumbing system adding harsh chemicals will eat through vulnerable areas. Depending on what the clog is made out of there might be a negative chemical reaction that will pose health risks.
One of the biggest mistakes that people make is to continue flushing even when toilets are on the verge of overflowing. If water levels are too high, grab some rubber gloves and try your hand at plunging. If that doesn’t work, the best way to unclog your toilet without a plunger is to call a local expert! The certified plumbers at Pete & Son Plumbing know how to treat organic and inorganic clogs of all types. Plumbers will assess the severity of your clog, as well as the condition of your system to determine the best course of action.
