Most people assume that buying a plunger is a pretty simple task, and it is, as long as you know what kind of plunger you need.
While the cup plunger is definitely the most well known, there are definitely a wide variety to choose from.
In order to buy a plunger that really works, it is essential that you understand what type plunger is needed for the situation that you are or will be facing.
Here is a look at the most common types of plungers and what situations they were designed for.
1.
Cup Plunger The cap plunger is the most well known plunger and it is what most people think of.
It normally has a wooden handle and a bright orange "cup", which is what does all of the work.
Cup plungers were originally designed to create a seal against against any flat surface, which is why it is most useful when addressing a sink or bathtub.
They are less effective on toilets because it is harder to create an airtight seal, especially when you pull up.
2.
Toilet Plunger or Flange Plunger A toilet plunger, more technically a flange plunger, has a special shape that is designed to create a deal against the opening in the bottom of the toilet bowl.
This will allow for the plunger to create the vacuum seal that is needed to create pressure when you are actually trying to unclog the toilet.
This type of plunger is easily identifiable because it has an additional rubber inverse that will reach below the cusp of the bowl rim.
Ball plungers are another option as they are very similar to the flange plunger, but are less common and can be harder to find.
3.
Taze Plunger Most people will never own, and maybe even never see, a Taze plunger.
They are often referred to as the "plumbers plunger".
It is made almost entirely of steel and actually goes into the pipes.
It is only needed for serious clogs that cannot be alleviated any other way.
Taze plungers will barely fit down the pipe and will cause a blockage itself.
This blockage will pressurize the water between the plunger and clog, which will force the clog to break up and descend down the pipes.
Taze plungers have become less prevalent as many plumbers have opted to simply use a plumbers snake to break up the clog directly.
When it comes to choosing a plunger, aside from choosing the type, the other option has to do with the size.
Normally the size of the plunger head will not change, but rather the length of the handles.
Some are as small as 10 inches, while others are as large as 3 feet.
It is completely up to you what length of handle to use, however the shorter the handle, the more control you will have over it.
s you can see, purchasing a plunger does involve a little bit of forethought in order to get the right plunger for the job.
However, once you understand what your options are, making the right choice is simple.