If you live in Kingston and your drain is blocked, don’t worry. Before you make that costly call to a plumber, try using one of your most effective tools in your home – your plunger. This may sound like a simple solution, but using a plunger for a blocked drain is not as straight forward as it seems. It warrants a little education and finesse, which will no doubt save you some money. In this article, you’ll learn how to use a plunger effectively to unblock your drain.
Blocked drains in Kingston are not uncommon. The combined effect of cold weather, hard water and old plumbing systems often result in the unwanted blockage. While calling blocked drains kingston a plumber can provide a quick relief, learning a few DIY tricks will also come in handy in such situations, saving you some money and an emergency call-out.
Firstly, let us look at choosing the right plunger. There are more than one type of plunger and choosing the right one is crucial. The most common ones are the flange plunger (toilet plunger) and the cup plunger (sink and tub plunger). For kitchen sinks, it’s always advisable to use a sink plunger. They generally have a flat bottom that creates better suction for flat surfaces.
Once you have your plunger in hand, you can follow the steps outlined below:
1. Clear the Area: Ensure the sink or tub is free from any debris that could hinder the plumbing process. This includes removing any dishes or items in the sink and cleaning the area around the drain.
2. Prepare the Plunger: Before you start plunging, make sure the plunger is prepared. If you’re using a new plunger, you’ll need to soften it up. You can do this by running it under hot water.
3. Create a Tight Seal: To create a good seal, try to cover the entire drain opening with the plunger. Make sure the plunger base is submerged in water; this aids the sealing and plunging effect. If there isn’t enough water in the sink or tub, run the tap until there is sufficient water.
4. Plunge with Purpose: Plunge in an up and down motion, maintaining the seal as you pump. This action creates pressure when pushed down and suction when pulled up, helping to dislodge the blockage.
5. Check the Drain: After about 15-20 plunges, check if the water begins to drain. If it is, congratulations! You’ve successfully plunged your drain. If not, repeat the plunging procedure.
6. Clean Up: Once you’ve successfully cleared your drain, be sure to clean up. Wash your plunger with hot, soapy water and rinse your sink or tub as well.
Using a plunger to tackle a blocked drain is not complicated once you get the hang of it. By understanding the mechanics of how a plunger works, you can easily and effectively clear blocked drains in no time. The next time you face a blocked drain in your Kingston home, consider reaching for your trusty plunger before you ring the plumber.