A Bathtub, Sink or Toilet Drain Clog can frequently be Removed with a Plunger
By Mark J. Donovan
|
|
When a bathtub, sink or toilet drain becomes clogged the first tool to try to remove the clock is a plunger. There are two main types of plungers that you can use to remove the clog. One is designed for a sink clog, and is referred to as a sink plunger, and the other is designed for a toilet clog and is known as a toilet plunger.
The sink plunger basically consists of a rubber bell shaped cup that is attached to a wooden stick. The toilet plunger is a little more elaborate and contains, in addition to the wooden stick and cup, an elongated bell shaped rubber flange section that is actually an extension of the base cup. |
The sink plunger is ideal for removing drain clogs in sinks, as well as bathtubs and showers, as it has a flat surface to seal tightly up against the surface of the drain.
With the toilet plunger, the flange section is designed to fit into the bottom of the toilet bowl to create a tight seal. A toilet plunger can also be used as a sink plunger by folding the bell shaped rubber flange section up into the plunger.
| How to Remove Toilet Drain Clog with a Plunger
To remove a toilet drain clog with a toilet plunger it works best if there is water actually in the toilet so that the plunger itself is fully submersed. The reason for this is that water does not compress and therefore will help to push the blockage through the drain. Once placing the toilet plunger up snuggly to the bottom of the toilet bowl’s exit pipe, rapidly push the toilet plunger several times while maintaining a tight seal. |
 |
If the clog is eliminated the excessive water in the toilet should quickly begin to drain out.
If after repeated plunging attempts the toilet still fails to unclog, then a drain auger should be tried. If the auger fails then call a plumber.
| How to Remove Sink Drain Clog with a Sink Plunger
To remove a sink drain clog with a sink plunger it again works best if there is water actually in the sink, however prior to filling the sink remove the sink plug so that the plunger can sit tightly over the sink drain. Also, cover the overflow drain hole with either duct tape or a rag. Next fill the sink with water to the point that the top of the sink plunger cup will be submersed in water. |
 |
Now place the sink plunger over the sink drain and then rapidly push the sink plunger several times while maintaining a tight seal around the sink drain.
If after repeated plunging attempts the sink still fails to unclog, then try a drain auger or disassemble the P or J-Trap underneath the sink to remove the clog. If the clog is further back in the drain system, you may need to call a plumber.
| How to Remove Bathtub Drain Clog with a Sink Plunger or Toilet Plunger
To remove a bathtub drain clog with a sink plunger it again works best if there is water actually in the shower-bathtub unit, however prior to filling the bathtub remove the bathtub drain plug so that the plunger can sit tightly over the bathtub drain. Also, cover the shower-bathtub overflow drain hole with either duct tape or a rag. Next fill the bathtub with water to the point that the top of the sink plunger cup will be submersed in water. Alternatively you can use a toilet plunger by folding the flange portion up into the top portion of the plunger. |
|
Now place the plunger over the bathtub drain and then rapidly push the plunger several times while maintaining a tight seal around the bathtub drain.
If after repeated plunging attempts the bathtub drain still fails to unclog then try a drain auger. If the auger fails then call a plumber.
For information on installing a shower pan membrane liner for a ceramic tile shower, see the Shower Pan Membrane Liner Installation eBook from HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Shower Pan Membrane Liner EBook will quickly teach you the step-by-step process for installing the shower pan membrane liner correctly. It includes instructions on framing the shower stall, pouring the pre-slope and shower base mortar, and installing the shower pan membrane liner.
For information on how to tile a custom ceramic tile shower, see the “How to Tile a Custom Ceramic Tile Shower eBook” from HomeAdditionPlus.com. This eBook will quickly provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to measure and install ceramic tile in a shower, including the installation of tile on shower walls, floors and curbs. It provides detailed instructions for every step in the process of tiling a custom ceramic tile shower and is loaded with instructional pictures!
Related Information
- How to Fix a Constantly Running Toilet
- How to Replace a Cracked Toilet
- How to Change a Toilet Wax Ring
Additional Plumbing Resources from Amazon.com
  |
  |
Get Free Bathroom Remodeling Price Quotes with No Obligation!
Fill out our 3-5 minute quick and easy form, and receive a free price quote on a bathroom remodeling project from one of our pre-screened and licensed bathroom remodeling contractors. This process is free and there is no obligation to continue once you receive your bathroom addition price estimate.