3 Types of Plungers & What Each One is For

Here’s what happens in homes occupied by the truly hip.

“Hey Junior, how about bringing your ol’ Dad a plunger.”

“Sure thing, Dad, but which one do you want?”

Smart kid for knowing enough to ask the right question. And smart Dad for stocking up to meet every contingency. Specifically, the well-equipped home will be stocked with three different types of plungers, and perhaps even multiples of one or more. The idea is to work only as hard as possible to undo a clog in the shortest amount of time possible.

Here are your options.

Toilet Plunger (Best all-around home plunger)

This is the granddaddy of all plungers, and still the most popular. They have a cup for extra suction and a soft rubber flap that folds out from inside the cup and fits neatly over the toilet drain. Having the flap inside also makes toilet plungers useful for clogged sink and tub drains.

Accordion Plunger

Here’s another option for clearing a clogged toilet, but it does have its limitations. With a smaller cup than traditional toilet plungers, it may not fit properly over the drain. When that happens, people tend to struggle to get just the right amount of suction.

Sink Plunger

Sink plungers have a rubber cup at the end of a straight handle. This plunger is great for kitchen and bathroom sinks and even works well with tubs from a low angle. Sink plungers also are designed for use on flat surfaces which, conversely, means they don’t work well in toilets.

Quick Tips

• Plunge straight and vertical– Angling the plunger won’t allow you to get the proper force needed. Plus, the seal can come loose.
• Release the air– Press the plunger down slowly to create suction and reduce air in the cup. This helps create a better seal.
• No chemicals, please – Don’t use chemicals and a plunger at the same time. The chemicals could splash out of the water and onto your skin.

Here’s one thing all three types of plungers have in common: they don’t always work. So, the next time your efforts bear no fruit, contact  Norhio Plumbing. We have all the equipment and experience we need to handle any drain clog and any type of drain repair.