Over time, the toilet has moved from being a convenience to a necessity in our homes. Actually, we can hardly go through a day without visiting it, hence the need to ensure that it is always functional and hygienic.

However, like any drainage channel, the toilet is prone to clogging due to poor use or non-flushable items getting stuck in its trap after flushing. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for your toilet to fix itself. This is an issue you can quickly sort out with a flange plunger.

What is it? How does it differ from a cup plunger? How can one use it to clear a toilet clog? We’ve got answers to all three questions in today’s piece.

Let’s get started.

What Causes Toilet Clogs?

Before we get into how you can use a flange plunger to clear a clog, we need to understand the different levels of toilet clogs and what causes them. First is the sewer line clogs resulting from debris buildup or flushed materials getting stuck way down the line or tree roots growing into the lines.

For this type of clog, there isn’t much you can do with a flange plunger; hence contact a licensed plumber for assistance. They have camera inspection tools that facilitate easier clog location, plus information on the materials causing the blockage.

On the contrary, some clogs are easily accessible, and you can comfortably clear them with the help of a flange plunger. They include surface-level clogs such as partially blocked S-traps.

Why Use a Flange Plunger and Not a Cup Plunger?

Cup plungers work better for sink clogs, but poorly when used to clear toilet clogs. The reason is that their shape limits their functionality; hence they don’t provide the air-tight seal necessary to break up a clog.

On the other hand, the flange plunger has a flange that inserts into the drain trap, allowing for a greater suction with each push and pull.

How to Use a Flange Plunger to Clear a Clog

• First, inspect the flange plunger for cracks, cuts, or holes in the body or rubber flange. Such dents leak water into the plunger, reducing the effectiveness of the plunging action.
• Second, ensure that the toilet bowl is half-filled with water. And, if necessary, scoop the excess water out of the bowl or fill it up with fresh water to half full. Make sure to do so, as water provides the sufficient plunging force.
• Slowly place the plunger into the half-filled bowl and into the drain hole at an angle to create an air-tight seal.
• Next, push in the flange plunger gently to avoid unnecessary splashing that may happen due to the air trapped in the flange trying to escape.
• Next, push the flange plunger handle sharply up and down and repeat the process severally to break the clog. Afterward, pour a cup of water into the bowl. If it drains normally, you’re good to go. Just flush the toilet and clean up.
• However, if the water drains slowly or doesn’t do so, you can opt to repeat the process. Alternatively, call in a certified plumber in Concord to correct the problem.