Plumbing problems can happen anytime and be frustrating to deal with, especially when you don’t have the right tools. As a homeowner, it’s important to keep a set of essential plumbing tools at hand to help you quickly fix leaks, clogs, and other plumbing issues. Whether you’re a DIYer or prefer to call a plumbing service, here are the top 5 must-have plumbing tools every homeowner should own.
- Plunger
A plunger is an essential tool to help you fix the most common toilet and sink clogs. It’s a simple tool; you only need to place the cup over the affected drain and push and pull it to create suction. This process helps loosen and dislodge any blockages, allowing water to flow freely. A good plunger should have a sturdy rubber cup with a strong wooden handle that can withstand repeated use.
- Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is a versatile tool that can be used to tighten or loosen threaded pipes and fittings. It has a wide jaw capacity that can fit pipes of various sizes, making it useful in repairing leaks, changing out fixtures, or installing new pipes. When using a pipe wrench, it’s important to grip the pipe or fit it tightly to avoid damaging the threads or causing leaks.
- Plumbing Snake
A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is a long flexible cable used to dislodge clogs in pipes that cannot be reached with a plunger. It’s perfect for clearing deep-seated blockages in toilets, tubs, and sink drains. A good plumbing snake should have a durable, flexible cable reaching up to 25 feet, allowing you to reach even the most stubborn clogs.
- Teflon Tape
Teflon tape, also known as plumber’s tape, is a thin, white tape that can be wrapped around the threads of pipes and fittings to create a watertight seal. It’s an inexpensive yet essential tool that can prevent leaks and drips in your plumbing system. When wrapping Teflon tape around threaded fittings, wrap it in the opposite direction of the threads to avoid unraveling when tightening the fitting.
- Pliers
Pliers are a versatile tool that can be used for various plumbing tasks, from tightening nuts and bolts to cutting pipes and fittings. They come in different shapes and sizes, with each type designed for specific tasks. Tongue-and-groove pliers, also known as channel lock pliers, are great for gripping and twisting pipes and fittings, while needle-nose pliers can be used in tight spaces to retrieve small objects or bend wires.
As a homeowner, it’s essential to have a basic set of plumbing tools to help you tackle minor repairs and prevent major plumbing disasters. With these five must-have plumbing tools, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of calling a professional plumber every time you encounter a plumbing problem. Remember to always use caution when tackling DIY plumbing repairs, and if in doubt, call in the professionals.
