How To Unclog A Toilet With A Plunger
Follow these basic steps to use a plunger to remove a clog from your toilet. Using a plunger as the first step of several possibly remedies is the easiest and the cheapest method. The water valve to the toilet needs to be turned off; it is found near the backside of the toilet next to the wall.
It is best to equip yourself with some rubber gloves for this kind of a job. Line the surrounding area of the toilet with a couple of layers of newspaper that can be thrown out or some old towels/rags. Removing a clog often creates a lot of splashing onto the floor.
If the toilet has filled with excess water remove the extra liquid and place it in a bucket. You want just enough water left in the bowl to cover the top of the suction cup of the plunger. Some people believe covering the bottom lip of the plunger with Vaseline jelly will help to maintain a better seal as you plunge; try it if you have some handy. Insert your plunger over the drain opening in the toilet water at an angle to prevent trapping air. Place the cup of the plunger over the opening securely.
Grip the end of the plunger handle with two hands and firmly push the plunger down and begin to pump it up and down vigorously without breaking the suction seal that has formed. It may take several repeated strokes to dislodge the clog. This up and down stroking action should burp the clog and free up the pipe.
When you think the clog may have been removed turn the water back on and get ready to flush the tank. Take the toilet lid off as a safety measure; you can shut the water flow off with the ball in the tank if water starts to overflow the bowl. Flush the toilet and hope for the best.
You never know when you are going to need to know how to unclog a toilet with a plunger. It sure is one of the cheapest methods to try before calling a plumber.