How To Plunge A Toilet, Part 4

Still stuck (sorry, no pun intended)? Here are some more solutions to some common toilet plunging problems.

If you haven’t done so, read How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 1, How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 2 and How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 3. You might find the answers you’re looking for.

PROBLEM: My toilet plunging efforts aren’t working.

Solution: Keep trying. If you’re using a good toilet plunger and have a good seal between the plunger and the toilet bowl, it’s usually just a matter of time before the clog either breaks up or is pushed through the toilet’s drainage system. Sometimes clogs break up after one or two solid plunges, but sometimes it takes considerable effort. How considerable? You might measure your plunging time by minutes rather than plunges.

PROBLEM: It’s still not working.

Solution: Go back through the basics. Make sure you’re using a good quality plunger with a toilet bowl flange, and go evaluate your technique. Reread How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 1, How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 2 and How To Plunge a Toilet, Part 3.

Give yourself a rest if you need it, then try again.

STILL NOT WORKING? Perhaps it’s time to take more drastic measures, such as chemicals, a pipe snake tool or even a professional plumbing service.