Plumbing problems happen at the most inconvenient times, and while some require a professional plumber, others can be solved by a homeowner with basic tools. Here are seven essential plumbing tools every homeowner should have on hand.
1. Plunger
There are different types of plungers available, and some may be better suited for specific applications. For example, a standard plunger works best for sinks and tub drains, while a flange plunger is ideal for toilets. If you can’t get a clog to budge, call a plumber and avoid chemical drain openers, which can damage your pipes.
2. Adjustable Wrench
A staple in every plumber’s tool bag, the adjustable wrench (also known as a crescent wrench) is used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. A prepared plumber works with an entire set of these wrenches to work on a variety of different pipes and fixtures.
This handy tool has the heft to lock onto pipe fittings without damaging them, and it comes in a number of different sizes to accommodate any situation. The handle is also a bit wider than many similar tools to feel comfortable in your hands and provide added torque when you need it.
3. Slip-Joint Pliers
A pair of pliers—specifically, slip joint pliers—are essential tools for plumbers. They allow professionals to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts too small for a wrench to grip, and to squeeze into narrow spaces where a standard screwdriver won’t fit.
4. Snake Camera
If you’re looking for a snake camera (also known as a borescope) to help with a tough sewer line clog or any other kind of visual inspection, make sure it has enough bright illumination. This feature is also important when working in wet or dusty conditions.
You should also check the IP rating on your chosen snake camera to ensure it can withstand wet environments. The higher the rating, the better it is for working in harsh conditions.
A snake camera is a great tool to have on hand. It can help identify the source of a problem and resolve it quickly and efficiently. It can also save time and money when compared to traditional methods, as it is less damaging and invasive with improved accuracy.
5. Pipe Cutter & Soldering Pliers
If your pipework is made of copper or plastic, you’ll need a tool to cut it. A ratcheting PVC tubing cutter is like super-strong scissors that can slice through these materials, and it’s one of the most essential plumbing tools for a homeowner.
Many plumbers seal copper piping by soldering it, and you’ll need a reliable tool for this task. A pair of adjustable soldering pliers can be used to loosen or tighten the solder on a copper pipe joint.
6. Drain Snake/Plumbing Auger
A drain snake, also called a plumbing auger, is a long metal cable that you feed down your sink or toilet drain to remove blockages. The head of the drain snake has many small hooks for snagging hair and soap scum buildup that accumulates in your drain line. You can find these tools at most home improvement stores. There are also power augers that have motors to generate more force, practical for larger lines with tough clogs.
To use the snake, first, loosen the screw at the end of the drum to extend the cable. Uncoil the cable slowly into the sink drain opening (or the p-trap, if you’ve removed it). Once you feel resistance, turn the crank to rotate the head and feed it further into the pipe. Keep rotating and feeding until you break up or clear the clog.
7. Sealant Tape
Plumbers often use thread sealing tape, sometimes called PTFE, plumber’s tape, or Teflon tape. This tool is essential to help patch and prevent possible leaks at pipe-threaded joint connections. These tapes are able to resist high and low temperatures, flex for better form-fitting coverage, and never dry out.
Plumber On-Demand Near You
If you’re in need of a plumber in South Eastern Ontario that provides same-day service with a 5-Star Experience, look no further than our expert team at Tap Tech.
For individuals and families who require a plumber NOW to quickly resolve a plumbing emergency, call 343-305-1172.
