There’s one tool you definitely never think about until you absolutely need it – the plunger. And you might not even be using the right type! In a crappy situation (pun intended), it’s important to be able to understand what type of plunger is appropriate for each situation and how to identify and utilize that plunger. Believe it or not, not all plungers are created equal! Let’s talk more about each type.
1. The Cup Plunger.
You can buy a cup plunger for about $2 on Amazon. It’s the most commonly seen plunger, and you can probably find one in one of your bathrooms. It is usually black or red and can sit flat on the floor, cup-side down. Although it’s often grabbed for clogged toilet situations, it is NOT the best tool for the toilet! In fact it is designed to unclog bathtub drains, floor drains, sink drains, or other types of flat surfaces where the cup can sit squarely above the drain and create a tight vacuum seal. The toilet, with it’s conical, curved shape is not a good place for the cup to create a good suction seal, nor be the quickest or most effective tool for a clog.
2. The Flange Plunger.
This one is for toilets. The flange extension below the cup area is specifically designed to fit into the toilet drain trap. The flange will create a tight seal along the trap hole and allow for suction of clogs from the drain below. Note, to use this plunger, make sure there is at least some water in the bowl – if the bowl is not half full of water, you may need to add some. Having air in or around the plunging action will not be helpful in suction or creating a tight seal. Plunge the toilet vigorously several times then flush. Repeat the process. If it doesn’t work and if after several attempts there is still no movement, call a plumber. There may be something more solid stuck in the trap that will have to be removed.
3. The Pro Version – the Accordion Plunger
As far as plungers go, this one is the most powerful. The accordion plunger is the master plunging tool used for more heavy-duty applications. It looks like a flange plunger with multiple additional fold of rubber in the body of the cup to help it adapt to a variety of surfaces. It also allows for more rigorous plunging and heavier suction power than a normal flange plunger. This would be a useful tool to have at a commercial property or a facility where there is heavy usage and traffic. It has seven to nine times the displacement of a regular cup plunger, so less plunging work is necessary to create the same action. Consider buying one for your residential or commercial property!
Still dealing with some ongoing clogging or drainage issues? We’d be happy to stop by your property to assess the problem and provide some solutions. If you live or work in eastern Baltimore or Harford County, please consider us at Coldwright Plumbing & Heating your go-to plumbers!
We serve the towns of Joppa, Abingdon, Fallston, Belcamp, Forest Hill, Bel Air, Aberdeen, Baldwin, Hunt Valley, Kingsville, White Marsh, Towson, Fulton, Middle River, Perry Hall and more! Call us or request a quote online!
