A clogged household drain should never be ignored. Without help, it causes issues such as slow-draining water, standing water, and plumbing backups. Here, review how to operate the first tool used in drain cleaning: the plunger.

What You Need to Know for Effective Drain Cleaning

Sinks

Unclog kitchen, bathroom, and basement sinks, as well as tubs and showers, with a cup plunger. A simple tool consisting of a wooden stick connected to a shallow rubber dome with a flat rim, this plunger works best on even surfaces. Start by covering the overflow drain with a saturated hand towel or rag to create a seal that prevents air from escaping and interfering with suction power.

Place the tool over the entire drain. If you’re dealing with a standing water issue, use a bucket or container to remove some of the liquid to prevent splashing on your skin and clothes. Push the handle straight down to form a seal around the drain, then pull it up.

Plunge slowly at first to remove air from the drain, then plunge quickly for about 20 seconds. Lift the tool and throw out any debris it has forced up, then repeat the process as necessary to clear the drain.

Toilets

Use a flange plunger to dislodge toilet clogs. Toilet plungers feature taller domes with extended rubber collars (flanges) that create tight seals over irregular surfaces. If you’re working with a full toilet bowl, wait at least 10 minutes for the water level to fall to avoid making a mess. Conversely, if the bowl has a low water level, add enough water to cover the plunger and increase suction.

Ensure the flange is in the drain hole and the dome covers the entire opening. Push and pull the tool while keeping the handle upright and the seal intact for 15 to 20 seconds. If necessary, add more water to the bowl and continue the process until your toilet functions normally again.

 

If your drains remain clogged despite plunging efforts, schedule drain cleaning services with Arrowhead Plumbing. These licensed and insured plumbers have served Gwinnett, Dekalb, and Fulton counties in Georgia since 2005, offering timely repairs and emergency plumbing services. The plumbers also help solve problems over the phone to save you money. Call (678) 226-2959 to make a drain cleaning appointment and review their latest coupon offers online. Get more plumbing tips on Facebook.