by Anthony Megna

Created on: June 06, 2010   Last Updated: April 27, 2011

A clogged toilet can be fixed with one very important device, the plunger.  Always keep a plunger right near the toilet should you face this distressing problem.  But there are ways to use a plunger that will provide success more often than not. 

Believe it not, there are different ways to use a plunger to unclog the toilet.  Most toilets today are "low-water use".  All that means is that it takes less water to flush the toilet than the older toilets that were manufactured.  However, that low water use has a tendency to clog the toilet on occasion.  So what's the best way to use the plunger?

When you flush a clogged toilet, as the water refills and tries to go down the drain, that's when you need to plunge the toilet.  Just be careful it doesn't overfill the rim of the toilet, or you are going to have a helluva mess on your hands!  What you might want to try is to heat a large pan of water to boiling.  Take the boiled water, and pour it into the toilet, and if there is enough space where you won't overspill the toilet, you can try flushing it as well.  Otherwise, use your plunger a few times as the boiled water works its way through the clog.  You might find success with this procedure.

Another way to use the plunger is to plunge the toilet when the water is at its lowest in the toilet.  In other words, after you've flushed the toilet, and the water is trickling its way down the drain.  At its lowest point, stick the plunger right on top of the opening of the drain, and plunge it a few times.  Repeat as necessary, until the clog is broken.

There's a way to prevent clogged toilets that works a high percentage of the time.  While you are "doing your business" on the toilet, flush it at the same time.  This works very well if your toilet has a tendency to clog a lot.  What this does is alleviate any buildup of refuse in the toilet, and the toilet really doesn't have a chance to clog as the flushed water does its work for you.  Try this the next time you fear you might clog the toilet.

Have you ever noticed that when you are in a hotel public restroom, those toilets are like jets!  Sometimes I wish I had one of those in my house, but the cost is higher than a regular household toilet.  So unless you have the extra money to spend, keep a handy plunger by the toilet, unless you want to call an expensive plumber!

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