When you flush your toilet, you expect the water to swirl and go down the drain. However, when the water level in the bowl begins to rise, your panic level goes up several degrees.
Here at Raptor Rooter & Plumbing, we don’t want you to panic! There are simple ways to help your drains function like new, thanks to a few plumbing tools. Although we hope you never have to use most of them, these tools can help someone in a pinch.
If the issue is major, give the professionals at Raptor Rooter a call — we have your back! However, we know that having tools can make your life easier. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of plumbing tools to keep on hand whether you’re a new or seasoned homeowner.
Use Toilet Plungers For Clogs
When a combination of paper and waste is too much for your drains to handle, your toilet bowl will begin to swell up with water. To keep water levels down, a plunger can help pull out stuck debris. There are two standard types of toilet plungers, both of which can remove different drain clogs.
Flange Plunger
These plungers should be used when unclogging a toilet. When you look at a flange plunger, you’ll notice that the handle is longer. The cup is smaller and has a slender flap that folds out from inside it. This design allows the tool to reach into the drain and apply force to loosen a clog.
Cup Plunger
Cup plungers are the design you think of when you think of the term “plunger.” However, with a wooden handle and a flat rubber cup, it is primarily made to help unclog flat surfaces. This tool is best when removing buildup in sink or shower drains.
When determining what kind of plunger you need, think of the surface around the drain you need to unclog. If it’s flat, opt for a cup plunger. For deeper drains, a flange plunger will create an efficient amount of suction. Ultimately, it’s good to have both on hand!
Wrenches Can Correct Pipe Issues
Depending on the type of work you need to do, there are different wrenches to consider. If you notice an exposed pipe, using a pipe wrench is best. This tool has the necessary grip to lock onto fittings and tighten them as needed.
An adjustable wrench has a jagged jaw used to tighten nuts and bolts. For spaces that are challenging to reach with standard tools, the long handle of a basin wrench can turn fasteners and pipes. In the event of a plumbing issue, having these tools can offer a quick fix!
Use Plumbing Snakes To Remove Hair From Drains
These types of snakes are not like the reptile, but they share the name since the tool is hose-shaped and long. They are commonly used in sinks and showers when you need to remove hair or debris from the drain. By uncoiling it down your drain, you can remove these items that could be causing your pipes to back up.
Toilet Augers Can Remove Deep Clogs
When the clog is too deep for either a plunger or a snake, using an auger may be the best way to remove it. There are two types to choose from, but it’s best to invest in a hand auger for your home since the other is meant for industrial use.
There are special hand augers for the toilet. These tools have a crank handle that winds a metal cable down the drain. This cable bores through clogs to push it closer to the sewer line. If the auger can’t loosen the obstruction, the best thing to do is to give a professional a call to help clear the blockage.
Plumbing Professionals That Know The Tricks Of The Trade
At Raptor Rooter & Plumbing, we know how important it is to keep your plumbing running smoothly. Keeping these tools in your house can help with any quick fixes you need to make. However if the issue becomes too much to handle, our experts are ready to help! To schedule a consultation, contact us today!
