If you’ve ever had a toilet clog, you know that it’s an absolute nightmare for your plumbing system. Not only does it make for a messy and smelly situation, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t know how to handle it properly.
Did you know that toilet clogs are the leading cause of house fires?
That’s right. According to the US Fire Administration, toilet clogs were responsible for 8,300 house fires in 2015 alone! And while most of these accidents resulted in minor property damage, some did result in serious injury or death.
But don’t worry—you can avoid a toilet clog with just a little bit of knowledge and a plunger.
In this article, we’ll explain what causes toilet clogs, what you should do if your toilet clogs up, and how to use the plunger as a PRO actually to unclog your toilet.
10 Causes of Toilet Clogs
A clogged toilet is one of the most common problems in US homes.
It’s so common that Americans spend $3 billion annually on plunger sales alone. And that doesn’t even count the cost of calling a plumber or replacing the entire toilet.
It is estimated that nearly half of all homes have experienced some kind of toilet clog issue. The most common cause of toilet clogs is paper items, such as paper towels and tissue.
How do you know if your toilet is clogged? Toilet clogs can occur due to various reasons. Here are some common causes:
1. Foreign objects in the toilet, such as a toy or paper towel
2. Toilet paper that has been flushed down the toilet
3. Debris from the outside of the building, such as tree branches or dirt
4. Hair that has been flushed down the toilet
5. The toilet seat is not lifted up enough to allow water to flow freely into the bowl
6. Worn-out flapper valve (the one that opens and closes when you flush)
7. Clogged pipes leading to and from your toilet tank are full of water residue and buildup; this can lead to clogs in your toilet
8. A foreign object has been flushed down into your toilet tank; this can cause clogs in your toilet bowl
9. A child has put something down the toilet that shouldn’t be flushed, like toys or food waste
10. A piece of clothing or string that has been flushed down the toilet and has become stuck in the drain hole
What Tools You Need in Fixing Toilet Clogs?
When fixing toilet clogs, you may need a combination of tools to clear the blockage effectively. Here are some common tools that can be helpful:
- Plunger (Toilet power plumber plunger)
- Toilet auger or closet auger
- Drain snake
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket
- Old towels or rags
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Pliers (slip-joint or adjustable)
- Pipe wrench (medium-sized)
- Teflon tape (plumber’s tape)
- Pipe cutter (if necessary)
- Hacksaw (if necessary)
- Pipe wrench (large-sized, if necessary)
- Replacement parts (flapper, fill valve, flush handle, etc., if needed)
- Pipe inspection camera (optional for more advanced troubleshooting)
- Plumber’s snake or powered drain auger (if dealing with severe clogs or blockages)
What is Plunger?
Plunger is a device used to clear a clogged drain or toilet. It consists of a rubber or plastic cup at the end of a long pole and a plunger head with an opening at the bottom that fits over the drain.
They are often used by people who have trouble using their hands to unclog a drain or for those who simply prefer to use a plunger plumber instead of other types of plumbing tools.
Plungers are available in different sizes (for sinks with different drain openings) and come in different colors (to match your bathroom decor).
Types of Plungers
Plungers are an essential part of any home’s plumbing system. They allow you to unblock your drains and toilets, but there are many different types of plungers that you should know about before you buy a power plumber plunger kit review.
Here are the most common types of plungers:
Cup Plunger
This type of plunger is shaped like a cup, and it pushes water in the same direction as the force applied to it. It is best used to unclog kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks and tubs, and laundry tubs.
Flange Plunger
The flange plunger has a rubber gasket attached to the base of its handle, which creates suction when pushed against a surface that needs unclogging. It is best used for toilets because it can create enough suction to pull up the water that has been trapped in pipes.
The Taze Plunger
The Taze plunger is the most common type of plunger. It is used for sinks, tubs, toilets, and other drains. The Taze plunger is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large. The small size is effective on small clogs, while the large size works well on larger clogs. The medium size can be used for both small and large clogs.
Accordion Plunger
The Accordion Plunger is a more advanced version of the Taze Plunger. It has a double-sided head that makes it easier to use, but it’s harder to find in stores. The accordion design allows this type of plunger to push more water out of the way than other models. This makes it ideal for clogged sinks or tubs where there is less space between the drain and the side of the basin than you would find in a toilet or shower stall.
Comparison Of Difference Types of Plungers
If you’re looking for the best plunger for your needs, it’s important to understand what types are available so that you can choose one that will work best for your situation.
Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key features and uses of the different types of plungers:
| Plunger Type | Description | Best Used For | Seal Effectiveness | Versatility | Forcefulness |
| Cup Plunger | Standard plunger with a rubber cup | Toilets, sinks, showers, drains | Good | High | Moderate |
| Flange Plunger | Cup plunger with an extended flange | Toilets | Excellent | Moderate | Moderate |
| Taze Plunger | Long and slender with a small cup | Sinks, bathtubs | Good | Moderate | Moderate |
| Accordion Plunger | Collapsible rubber cup | Toilets, sinks, bathtubs | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Power Plunger | Mechanized plunger using air/water pressure | Stubborn clogs | Excellent | High | High |
What Would A Plumber Do With A Plunger?
The plunger is one of the most essential tools in any plumber’s toolbox. It’s used for clearing toilet clogs, which can be a messy job, and it can also be used as initial troubleshooting to help you determine whether the problem is clogged pipes or something more serious.
Here are some things Santa Rosa plumber would do with a plunger:
Clearing toilet clogs
Plumbers frequently use plungers to clear toilet clogs, which can occur for various reasons. Whether it’s a minor blockage or a more stubborn clog, plungers are often the first tool plumbers reach for when dealing with toilet issues.
Unclogging sinks and drains
Plumbers in Santa Rosa utilize plungers to clear clogs in sinks, including kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and utility sinks. They create a seal around the drain opening and use plunging action to dislodge the blockage and restore proper drainage.
Removing bathtub and shower drain clogs
Plungers are also effective for clearing clogs in bathtubs and showers. Hair, soap residue, and other debris can accumulate in these drains, causing slow drainage or backups. Plumbers use plungers to create suction and pressure to break up the clog and improve water flow.
Addressing floor drain blockages
Floor drains, commonly found in basements, laundry rooms, or garages, can become clogged with dirt, debris, or other materials. Santa Rosa plumbers use plungers to clear these blockages and make sure the proper functioning of the floor drains.
Resolving minor pipe blockages
In some cases, minor blockages can occur in pipes. Plumbers Santa Rosa CA, may use plungers to attempt to clear these blockages before resorting to more advanced tools or techniques.
Tips on Using a Plunger Like a Pro Plumber
Plungers are plumbing tools that can be used to unclog sinks, toilets, and tubs. They can be used in a variety of ways, but here are three tips on how to use a plunger like a pro plumber:
Choose the right plunger.
It’s important to choose the right plunger for whatever you’re trying to clear out of your plumbing system. You should know how to use master plumber plunger. For example, if you’re trying to remove water from a bathtub drain, you’ll need a flat-ended plunger with an inflatable rubber cup; if you want to unclog a sink drain, look for one with a bell shape that fits snugly into the drain hole.
Ensure a good seal.
Once you’ve chosen your plunger and inserted it into the drain or pipe opening where you want it to go (or where it will fit), make sure it creates an airtight seal against whatever surface it covers. Hence, no water escapes during the application of pressure. If there’s any space between your plunger and where it should be touching, take care of that before proceeding!
Add water if necessary.
If your toilet pipe is clogged with something other than paper products, like grease or food waste, then adding water will help the suction power of the plunger go deeper into the drain. This may allow you to clear the pipe faster.
Use controlled and deliberate movements.
If you’re plunging with one hand or gripping the handle in a way that makes it difficult for you to control how much force is applied, then you’re wasting time and energy! Be sure that both hands are on the plunger handle at all times (this will also help prevent injury). And make sure that you’re using slow and steady movements so that pressure is evenly distributed throughout the pipe wall when removing water from inside of it—this will keep your pipes from getting damaged over time by too much stress placed against them during each plunge cycle (which means less money spent on repairs later).
Maintain consistent pressure.
It’s important to keep consistent pressure while plunging, as this will help to ensure that the water is properly removed from your pipes. If you’re having trouble maintaining consistent pressure, try using your thumb to press down on the rubber cup of the plunger handle.
Plunge at different angles.
Not all clogs are created equal—some are shallow, while others are deep. In order to get the best results, you’ll want to plunge at different angles to reach as much of the clog as possible! Sometimes you’ll need to push down vertically, and other times you might want to try plunging horizontally (by pushing straight down). This will help break up the clog so that it can pass through easily.
Be patient and persistent.
Plumbing and plunging aren’t always easy, and sometimes a clog just won’t budge! If you don’t feel like you’re making progress after trying for 10 minutes or so, it may be time to move on to another option.
Keep safety in mind.
When using a plunger, never put yourself or others at risk by attempting a DIY fix when there’s an issue with your pipes or drains. Remember that if you need professional help, it’s always better to call Santa Rosa Beach emergency plumber than try something dangerous yourself!
Avoid using chemicals.
Using chemicals to clear a clogged drain can be very dangerous for your health and the environment. The best way to keep your drains clean is to avoid putting harmful materials down them in the first place. If you have a clogged drain, try using baking soda and vinegar instead of bleach or other chemical cleaners.
Know when to seek professional help.
If you can’t clear your clogged drain using a plunger, or if it seems like the problem is too severe for you to handle on your own, don’t hesitate to contact an emergency plumber Santa Rosa immediately! There are many reasons why a plunger might not work: maybe there are roots growing into your pipes; maybe there’s been an earthquake that has broken off pieces of your pipe; maybe someone has poured grease down their sink, and it’s gotten stuck inside one of them… It could even be that there’s something wrong with your plumbing itself! Whatever the reason may be—and there are many—you should always call in professionals if you need help.
DIY Vs. Professional Toilet Clog Fixes
DIY and professional toilet clog fixes are two solutions to a common problem.
Both DIY and professional toilet clog fixes have different attributes, benefits, and drawbacks.
So, here’s a comparison table highlighting the key differences between DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and professional toilet clog fixes:
| Aspect | DIY Fix | Professional Fix |
| Skill and Knowledge | Requires basic plumbing knowledge and techniques | Professional plumbers have extensive expertise |
| Tools and Equipment | Limited tools and equipment may be available | Plumbers have specialized tools for various clogs |
| Time and Effort | DIY fixes may take longer, especially for stubborn clogs | Professionals can resolve clogs more efficiently |
| Success Rate | Success depends on the severity and nature of the clog | Professionals have higher success rates |
| Risk of Damage | Potential for accidental damage to the toilet or pipes | Professionals minimize the risk of damage |
| Warranty and Guarantee | No formal warranty or guarantee | Professionals may offer guarantees on their work |
| Complex Issues | Limited ability to handle complex or severe clogs | Professionals can tackle complex plumbing problems |
| Cost | Generally less expensive, assuming no major issues | Professional services come with associated costs |
| Convenience | Requires personal time and effort to fix the issue | Professionals handle the task, saving you time |
| Emergency Situations | May not have immediate access to help in emergencies | Professionals can provide 24/7 emergency services |
It’s important to note that the decision between DIY and professional toilet clog fixes depends on the severity of the clog, your comfort level with plumbing tasks, and the resources available to you. While DIY fixes may be suitable for minor clogs and simple troubleshooting, professional assistance is recommended for persistent, severe, or complex clogs and emergency situations. Plumbers have the expertise, tools, and experience to handle a wide range of plumbing issues efficiently and effectively.
It’s Time to Call A Professional Septic Tank Repair Service Plumber in Santa Rosa, CA!
So you have tried the plunger to unclog your toilet, and it doesn’t work. No worries.
If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic! We can help.
We at Holman Plumbing are experts in Toilet and Septic Tanks Fix in Santa Rosa. We know how frustrating it is when you can’t get your toilet to unclog. Our team of plumbers has the tools and expertise needed to solve even the toughest clogs.
When you call us for your Septic Tank Problems, you can expect:
– Friendly and professional customer service from our Plumbing technicians.
– A thorough inspection of your septic system so that we can give you an accurate assessment of the damage and create a plan to fix it.
– An honest answer about what needs to be done to get your septic tank repaired and running smoothly again.
– A fair price for our services that is easy to understand and won’t leave you wondering how we calculated it.
– A written estimate for the cost of your repair.
Our mission is simple: to provide Santa Rosa, CA, with high-quality plumbing services that meet or exceed our customers’ expectations. We take pride in our work, so we only hire highly skilled technicians with years of experience working with commercial properties and residential homes.
No matter what kind of plumbing issue you’re dealing with, we can help! Contact us today at (707) 504-0974 for more information about our Septic Tank repair or regular maintenance services for your home or business or to schedule an appointment with our licensed plumber to help fix your plumbing problem immediately.