When drains get clogged or backed up, the first tool people usually look for is a plunger. When used correctly, these resources will create suction to clear blockages—and save you from having to call a plumber. While plungers are effective, they aren’t all designed to perform the same functions. To help you know which is best for your needs, here’s a quick guide on the most common types of plungers and what they can do.  

4 Kinds of Plungers & the Plumbing Problems They Can Solve

1. Sink

The sink model is what most people think of when they envision a plunger. This simple device features a rubber cup at the end of a handle—some of which may be relatively short.

Although many consumers may use this tool for toilet clogs, they are designed to fit over flat surfaces—such as sink and shower drains. Once the cup is fully aligned against the surface, you can press down to form a seal and create powerful suction to dislodge blockages.

2. Accordion

If you’re looking for a powerful plunger for toilet-specific purposes, accordion models may be an effective choice. These tools come in various lengths and are often made out of durable, rigid plastic. Instead of using a cup, these plungers rely on an accordion tube that stretches and compresses.

The main advantage of this product is that it can displace large amounts of toilet water to force clogs out. However, the extra pressure it creates can make it more difficult to operate.

3. Flange

Flange plungers provide a nice balance between the sink and accordion models. Similar to a sink plunger, these devices feature a rubber cup at the end of the handle. However, the cup also has a flanged outlet. This flange can fit comfortably with odd-shaped openings—such as toilet drains—to provide optimal sealing and suction. But, if you have a flat drain that you need to clear, you can fold the flange inward to mimic the design of a standard sink plunger.  

4. Taze

At first glance, it’s easy to confuse a taze plunger for a flange model, as each option has a similar shape. However, the flange attachment on taze devices is sized to fit specific types of pipes and drains. As such, these products are usually used by professional plumbers rather than everyday consumers.

Plungers can’t fix every clog. When they can’t, Drain Pro Plumbing is here to get the job done right. Based in Lakeville, MN, this local plumber is equipped to provide everything from pipe repair to drain cleaning. Whether you need to clear a clogged pipe or have water heater service, you can count on this family-owned business to deliver reliable and affordable solutions in a timely fashion. They even offer emergency support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visit this plumbing company online to learn more about these services or call (952) 469-6999 to request assistance.