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Why Every Household Needs Two Plungers

Why Every Household Needs Two Plungers

Did you know that different clogs in your home require the use of different types of plungers?

Whether you are addressing an issue with your toilet or your sink, there are specific plungers made for both. It’s a good idea to keep both types on hand so that you are prepared for any plumbing maintenance emergencies that may arise. Let’s learn a bit about plungers and why most homeowners should have more than one on hand.

How Do Plungers Work?

While the idea of needing to unclog a draining certainly isn’t the most riveting, actually fixing the problem is fairly simple. The first thing we need to go over is how the plunger works. A plunger basically follows the law of basic physics, specifically Boyle’s law.

Here’s how it works, the moment you place the plunger over the drain opening, you are sealing it. Once you push down you are creating an increase in the pressure within the pipe.

You’ll notice when you do this step that you will be able to physically feel the tugging on the plunger indicating it is sealed. This increase in pressure pushes the water down so that when you pull up on the plunger, the suction you created reduces the pressure and then the water will rise.

Voila! The magic of physics!

How Do I Use a Plunger?

If you’ve never had to use a plunger before, there’s no need to feel intimidated. Using a common plunger is very easy.

To start, push down on the cup against the drain opening. Next, you will have to either press hard into the drain to force air in or push down until the rubber cup is flattened.

Then you will pull it out. This is what creates a vacuum, and this vacuum is what creates enough force to properly remove the blockage out of the drain and clear out the clog.

Stay Prepared With 2 Types of Plungers

Not all plungers are created equal. Despite what most people believe, every home needs at least two different kinds of plungers.

Toilet Plunger

So now that you know how a plunger works, let’s talk about the two types that can help you with your plumbing maintenance.

A toilet plunger is a basic tool for plumbing maintenance and is used to unclog a toilet. Things like placing too much toilet tissue in the toilet or flushing random items will easily clog your toilet. It’s best to avoid this.

What sets a toilet plunger apart is the rubber flap that can be pulled down from the cup. This rubber flap forms a stronger seal with the toilet drain opening so you can have a better plunge.

Using a toilet plunger is very simple. You basically apply force that works to push the clog out so the entire bowl can drain and become clear. Always check to make sure there is plenty of water in the bowl to plunge effectively.

The U-trap is the curving channel located inside the base of a toilet. It leads from the hole at the bottom of the bowl to the drainpipe. To unclog the toilet, you will want to apply a good amount of pressure to the blockage in the U-trap.

Sink Plunger

Next up is a sink plunger. A sink plunger is used to unclog your sink. This is the plunger you see with the red cup. Sink plungers usually have a flat cup and a shorter handle.

To properly use a sink plunger, you first need to remove the top of the sink hole stopper or cover. You’ll need to add a small amount of water to the sink to help ease the clearing the clog.

Next, you’ll need to focus on creating a strong seal. To do this, you have to place the sink plunger over the drain. Apply enough force to feel the pressure of the seal. Then remove the plunger and check the drain to see if it is clear. Repeat this process a few times to clear the clog if needed.

When To Call a Plumber

A plumber is your go-to professional when it comes to pipe and drain maintenance. Clearing a drain or clog is something most homeowners can remedy on their own. But sometimes the issue may be more involved than it appears to be on the surface.

Having trouble unclogging your toilet or drain? Have you noticed any type of sewage smell in your home or are multiple drains clogged? Then you should opt for a professional to come to your home to remedy the clog. Plumbers will address the clog or other issues more thoroughly—plus they have the tools needed to get your drains running clear again.

For the best service in Los Angeles, call us today to schedule your next plumbing visit!

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