If you see signs of a clogged toilet then you may need instructions about how to unclog a toilet with a plunger. Signs of a clogged toilet may include: only a trickle of water going down the base of the toilet, minimal swirling motion when flushed or water backing up all over the floor is a pretty good indication of a clog.
Follow these basic steps to use a toilet 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. A normal sink plunger will work on most blockages but if you can get your hands on a ball plunger or toilet flange plunger you’ll find they are more effective. These specialized toilet plungers have an accordion shape to create more pressure and some designs have an extra rubber section, a flange, that is attached to the rubber cup. This flange will help minimize slippage. (See examples of specialized toilet plungers in the sidebar).
How to plunge a toilet
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. Water does not compress as much under pressure as air does so you certainly want to ensure there is water in the pipes, rather than just air. 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 toilet plunger over the opening securely. If you are using a toilet flange plunger, the flange section should be placed inside the drain hole with the rubber cup sealing the entrance to the trap way.
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 toilet 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.
