If your toilet’s clogged, don’t reach for that plunger!
If you’re like most toilet users, you very likely have one of these ancient devices right next to it. It’s a stick with a rubber cup or bulb on the end of it which allows you to apply positive and/or negative pressure to the contents of your toilet drain for the purpose of clearing clogs and preventing overflow.
But did you know that plunging a toilet is actually a pretty sketchy practice even in the best of circumstances?
Hear me out.
Plunging a clogged toilet can damage the wax seal
Did you know the seal between your toilet and the attached drain pipe is typically a thin layer of wax? So, when you apply sufficient pressure to clear a clog, you are very likely blowing at least a small channel or groove in said wax seal.
This means that next time you have a backup, nasty sewer water (black water) will seep out from under the commode through the notch you blasted into your wax ring last time you DIYed your stopped-up toilet.
Unclog your toilet with a Toilet Auger / Closet Auger
The appropriate tool for clearing a clogged toilet is called a closet auger, otherwise known as a toilet auger. This is a specially designed three to six foot snake just for toilets. It even has a rubber boot on the end that goes into the toilet bowl to avoid scratching up the beautiful porcelain at the bottom.
It does require learning how to properly use it, as it can be done wrong. However, used properly, it is a much better option.
Here’s a video showing how it’s done:
Better yet, and especially if you have a really tough clog, give Gary’s Quality Plumbing a call at 972-424-6479.
We do it right … The first time.
Article by Danny Skinner, M41026, a Registered Master Plumber by Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, a family member and plumber on the Gary’s Quality Plumbing team.
