As a homeowner, facing some minor plumbing issues is inevitable. Whether you are dealing with a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, you will need to have some basic plumbing tools to tackle the issue. However, not everyone is a professional plumber, and not everyone has all the essential tools for plumbing repairs. That is why, in this article, we will list down the most important plumbing tools every homeowner should have.
1. Plunger
A plunger is perhaps the most fundamental plumbing tool every homeowner should have. It’s a handy tool used to clear clogs from toilets, sinks, and drains. It works on the principle of creating a vacuum to remove the blockage. The plunger has a rubber cup and a wooden handle. Put the cup over the drain or toilet and plunge in an up-and-down motion. If the blockage gets cleared, the water will start to flow freely.
2. Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is also an essential plumbing tool that you should have in your toolbox. It’s used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts attached to pipes. If you are dealing with a major plumbing problem such as replacing a faucet or a pipe, you need a pipe wrench. These wrenches are adjustable in size and can grip any pipe tightly without damaging it.
3. Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a tool that is specifically designed for fixing faucets. It has a long handle that can reach tight spaces behind sinks and remove nuts that secure the faucet to the sink. Without a basin wrench, it’s almost impossible to remove a faucet from the sink.
4. Teflon Tape
Teflon tape, also known as plumber’s tape, is another must-have plumber’s tool. It is used to create a watertight seal on threaded pipes and connections. Wrap a few layers of Teflon tape around the threads in a clockwise direction before attaching fittings to pipes. This will prevent leaks from occurring.
5. Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a versatile, all-purpose wrench that can loosen or tighten almost any nut or bolt. It’s an essential tool for fixing any minor plumbing issues. It’s adjustable in size and can grip a wide range of nuts and bolts securely without slipping.
6. Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a cutting tool that can cut through various materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. It’s an essential plumbing tool that can be used to cut pipes, screws, and bolts. It’s a versatile tool and can be used for a wide range of applications.
7. Drain Snake
If you have ever faced a stubborn clogged drain, you know the importance of having a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool used to remove blockages from drains and pipes. It’s easy to use and can save you from a lot of frustration and money. Simply insert the drain snake into the drain and twist it until the blockage is removed.
8. Compression Sleeve Puller
A compression sleeve puller is a tool used to remove compression fittings from copper pipes. It’s an essential tool for anyone who needs to replace or repair a faulty compression fitting.
9. Closet Auger
A closet auger is a specialized tool designed to clear clogs from toilets. Unlike a plunger, which only works on minor blockages, a closet auger can handle more stubborn clogs. It’s a long, flexible tool with sharp edges that can penetrate and break up clogs without damaging the toilet.
10. Pliers
Pliers are another versatile tool that every homeowner should have in their toolbox. They are ideal for gripping, twisting, and holding objects while working on plumbing projects. There are many different types of pliers available, including needle-nose pliers, locking pliers, and tongue-and-groove pliers.
In conclusion, having the essential plumbing tools can make your life easier when dealing with minor plumbing issues. By familiarizing yourself with these basic plumbing tools, you can fix simple plumbing problems and save money on professional plumbing services. If, however, the problem persists, you should always seek professional help rather than attempting to fix the issue yourself. Remember to always conclude each post with a call to action for readers to visit or call the plumbing service company.