Editing Plunger (section)

=== Plumbing ===

==== Use ====
For the common plunger, the cup is pushed down against the drain opening, either pressing hard into the drain to force air in or pushing down until the rubber cup is flattened. The cup is then pulled out, creating a vacuum to pull blockage material upward and dislodge waste or other material. 

==== Shape and function ====
The cup of a kitchen plunger looks like a rubber ball cut in half with a flared edge, while the toilet plunger's cup looks more like a distorted bowl, tapered on one half, with a large opening on the bottom.

A plunger is much more effective with water in the pipe, as water does not compress and thus transmits more of the applied [[force]] than does air.<ref>{{cite book|title=Ultimate Guide to Plumbing|author=Henkenius, Merle|isbn=1580113117|year=2006|publisher=Creative Homeowner Press|page=[https://archive.org/details/plumbingcomplete0000henk/page/216 216]|url=https://archive.org/details/plumbingcomplete0000henk/page/216}}</ref>  When a plunger alone is ineffective, it can be supplemented by a chemical [[drain cleaner]] for sinks and tubs; or a [[plumber's snake]] for stubborn clogs, and clogs of the main line or toilet.<ref>{{cite book|title=Lou Manfredini's House Smarts|page=28|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O-r-wnVA4mEC&pg=PA28|author=Lou Manfredini|publisher=Random House|year=2004|isbn=0345449894}}</ref>[[File:Labeled syringe.png|thumb|Components of a [[disposable]] syringe including its plunger]]