Plumbing problems can occur at any time of the day, and you should be prepared with the necessary tools to get it fixed. Considering DIY plumbing can help you save hundreds, if not thousands.
Having plumbing tools at your place can come in handy in case of a plumbing emergency. Here are the top 10 must-have tools to fix your common plumbing issues.
Top 8 Common Plumbing Tools
1. Plungers
Plungers are essential plumbing tools every homeowner should have at their place. A flange plumber can help clear a clogged toilet, while a basic cup plunger will ensure dirt is removed from a tub or sink. A plunger is an affordable tool that will help you solve minor plumbing problems. If the plumbing problem requires expert help, it is ideal to call an experienced drain cleaning plumber.
2. Wrenches
Four types of wrenches can deal with common plumbing problems.
- Basin Wrench
A basin wrench, also known as a sink wrench, is a plumbing tool used in tight spaces and under sink applications. The long handle on the basin wrench helps tighten faucets or loosen them easily.
- Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is used for loosening or tightening pipe fittings. Since the jaws of pipe wrenches have sharp edges, you might want to wrap a cloth around the pipe to maintain its finish.
- Adjustable Wrench
Such wrench types are used for multiple applications. Adjustable wrenches are available in different sizes, meaning they can work for any plumbing or basic nut and bolt tightening.
- Strap Wrench
The strap wrench is used to hold large pipes by tightening straps. Such wrench types prevent pipes from slipping with the help of friction. Simply wrap the strap around the pipe or fixture, tighten, twist, and done!
3. Slip-Joint Pliers
Slip-joint pliers is a basic plumbing tool used to grip and bend plumbing hardware. Slip-joint pliers have two sets of teeth – one to grip small objects or nails and another to grip bulky nuts and bolts.
4. Hacksaw
Hacksaw is a perfect plumbing tool to cut through PVC pipe easily. With extra efforts and different blades, hacksaws can also manage to cut through metal pipes.
5. Thread Tape
Thread tape, also known as Teflon tape or plumber’s tape, is used to create a watertight seal between each plumbing joint. Such must-have plumbing tools usually come with new plumbing fixtures. You have to wrap the end of the thread clockwise to ensure a watertight seal.
6. Duct Tape
Most homeowners used duct tapes to temporarily fix their leaking pipes. A waterproof duct tape can patch any crack, gap, or tear caused due to a leak and seals out water, air and moisture, even underwater.
7. Plumber’s Putty
Are you looking for a tool that can seal drain assemblies connected to your sink? Use plumber’s putty. Plumber’s putty is a flexible, waterproof sealing agent applied on the base of drains or faucets. It restricts water from seeping behind your plumbing appliances. You can use a plumber’s putty as an alternative to duct tapes.
8. Plumbing Snake
A plumbing snake, also known as an auger, is a plumbing tool used to clear blocked drains. If the plunger can’t clear a blocked drain, you can opt to use a plumbing snake. Such plumbing tools feature a metal coil at one end which you have to insert into the drain. There are two varieties of plumbing snakes – manual and motorised.
- Manual – Here, you have to manually insert the plumbing snake into the drain and start to uncoil it by rotating the handle. Such plumbing snake types are quite affordable.
- Motorised – Also known as electric plumbing snake. Upon inserting the plumbing snake, the plumbing device will rotate against the obstruction to break it up or grab the object and pull it out. A motorised plumbing snake is more efficient than a manual one. However, they can be quite expensive.
You can choose the right type of plumbing snake depending on your plumbing needs, preference, and budget.
Having such plumbing tools handy can help you fix emergency plumbing issues easily. If you have a plumbing problem that requires expert help, call Pied Plumber on 1300 13 80 80.
