How to Unclog a Toilet With a Flange Plunger

We’ve all been there: your toilet gets clogged, so you reach for your plunger and get to work, hoping that you’re able to fix the problem before it gets out of hand. While the image of the classic red rubber plunger is something we’ve all seen throughout our lives, there is a better option when it comes to plungers.

Flange plungers are much more effective than standard plungers when it comes to unclogging toilets. In this article, we’ll go over what flange plungers are, what makes them so effective, and give you a step-by-step guide on how to plunge a toilet properly. 

What is a Flange Plunger and Why are They More Effective?

A flange plunger is different from a classic cap plunger because of its design. The head has a sleeve-like extension, or flange, that creates a more effective seal around the drain of the toilet. With a stronger seal, the amount of suction increases, so when you press down you’ll have a higher chance of fixing the clog. 

Flange plungers are also taller and more narrow than traditional cap plungers. Because of the narrowness of the plunger, more pressure is forced over the clog as opposed to a classic cap plunger where the cap is wider. The narrowness of the plunger not only allows for easier insertion into the drain, but also lessens the chance of any water from the toilet splashing onto your hands. 

How to Plunge a Toilet with a Flange Plunger

In order to unclog a toilet with a flange plunger, you will:

1. First, put on rubber gloves and make sure that the area around the toilet is cleared so that you’re able to plunge comfortably. 
2. Once the area is cleared, if your toilet does not currently have any water in it, make sure that there is enough to cover the flange of the plunger. This will allow the plunger to create suction to remove the clog in your toilet. 
3. Position the flange plunger over the drain of the toilet. You should be able to see if the plunger is positioned properly because of its more narrow head. Press down firmly to create a seal between the plunger and the toilet.
4. Now that the plunger is positioned properly, begin pushing down with the plunger in strong, controlled motions, pulling up quickly after without breaking the seal. 
5. Repeat this action until the water begins to drain. If your toilet was already filled with water, this should empty down the drain. After all of the water is drained, flush the toilet again to make sure that it is functioning properly. 
6. Finally, you’ll want to clean your plunger thoroughly after you get your toilet unclogged with water and disinfectant. Store it in a clean, dry place for future use. 

Choose Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains for Plumbing Issues in Novato and Vacaville

If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog and live in Vacaville, Novato, or the surrounding Northern California area, turn to Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains. We offer comprehensive drain cleaning services if you’re in a situation that you just can’t fix yourself. 

Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains also takes calls for plumbing emergencies 24/7 to ensure the quickest possible fix to any plumbing issue you’re experiencing. Our team of certified plumbers provides upfront pricing, and we’re confident we can safely and effectively solve your plumbing problem. We also offer several coupons!

Learn more about our plumbing repair services today. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please fill out our online form or call us at 800-605-5713.

What Is a P-Trap and How Does it Work?

In the world of plumbing, it can be hard to keep up with all of the different parts that make up your pipe system. One crucial piece of the puzzle that all homeowners should be aware of is the P-trap, as this U-shaped pipe plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity of your drainage system. In the past, plumbers may have installed a similar type of piping called an S-trap, but these pipes have since been deemed ineffective compared to P-traps.

In this article, we’ll go over what P-traps are, their essential functions,  and why they should always be used over S-traps. 

What Is a P-Trap?

P-traps can be found under most sinks, drains, and other basins, where they connect a sink or drain to a municipal sewer system or home septic tank. Typically, P-traps are made out of metal or PVC pipe, and when they’re installed, they resemble a horizontal letter P. 

The main function of P-traps is to block sewer gasses and odors from coming back up through your drain. By blocking these potentially hazardous gases, correctly installed P-traps ensure a clean and hygienic living or working space. 

What Is a P-trap Used For?

P-traps are primarily designed to help the overall functionality of your drainage system. Whether the P-trap is regulating airflow, preventing odors, or capturing debrism, it’s essential to your home’s plumbing system. Learn more about what P-traps do below:

• Odor Prevention: The way that P-traps are shaped causes a water seal that prevents the foul-smelling gasses that it blocks from entering your home. If your P-trap is not installed properly or functioning as it should, foul-smelling sewer gasses will leak into your living space. 
• Debris Capture: P-traps help capture debris and prevent it from entering your main drainage system. Substances like hair, soap scum, and other particles are all trapped by the curved section of a P-trap that helps prevents clogs in the system farther down the line. If you drop something valuable down the drain, like a wedding ring, the P-trap will usually catch it. Since P-traps are located under the sink, you can retrieve the valuable item far more simply than if it went farther down your drain.
• Airflow Regulation: The water seal created by the shape of P-traps helps prevent air from flowing back into the system. By stopping air from flowing in the wrong direction, it helps the continuation of proper function. 

Why You Shouldn’t Opt for an S-trap

S-traps were previously used instead of P-traps in some drainage systems. Over the years, however, S-traps have been recognized as ineffective and are actually even prohibited from being installed in new construction projects in the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code. If you were considering installing an S-trap in your home, consider the following problems that can arise when they are used instead of P-traps.

• Siphonage Issues: S-traps can be prone to siphonage, which is a process where the water seal they create is broken due to rapid water flow. Because the water seal is compromised, sewer gas can easily flow back up through the drains and enter the home, creating a potentially hazardous and unpleasant environment. 
• Venting Problems: Due to how they are shaped, S-traps may experience venting issues, leading to slow drainage and gurgling sounds. Proper venting is essential in any plumbing system, as backups can cause pipes to burst and other catastrophes that could end up costing you a good deal of money.
• Compliance With Codes: As mentioned previously, S-traps are now in violation of building codes and plumbing regulations. If you are a business owner or homeowner getting your property inspected, you could run into problems if you have S-traps installed instead of P-traps. 

Choose Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains for Plumbing Services in Northern California

If you're looking for P-trap repair or installation services in Novato, Vacaville, or the surrounding areas, turn to Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains. Our qualified plumbers can take a look at your current drainage system and either repair your current P-trap or help you install a new one. We also recommend signing up for Lucky’s Comfort Club, which is an annual maintenance program that provides regular inspections and maintenance of your plumbing system to prevent issues from occurring in the first place. Additionally, our coupons make it easy to fit repairs and new equipment into your budget.

Learn more about our plumbing services today. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please fill out our online form or call us at 866-717-4613.