Plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly, and it’s always helpful to be prepared with the right tools to tackle these problems. As a homeowner, there are a few essential plumbing tools that you should have in your toolbox. These tools will not only save you time but also money by allowing you to handle minor plumbing repairs on your own. In this article, we will discuss the must-have plumbing tools that every homeowner should own.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a versatile tool that should be in every homeowner’s toolbox. It is used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of different sizes. When it comes to plumbing, an adjustable wrench is particularly useful for tightening or loosening pipe fittings. Its adjustable jaws allow you to grip pipes securely, making it easier to tighten or remove fittings without causing damage.
Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is another essential tool for any homeowner. Unlike an adjustable wrench, a pipe wrench has serrated jaws that provide a better grip on rounded objects like pipes. It is specifically designed for tightening or loosening pipes and pipe fittings. A pipe wrench comes in various sizes, so make sure to have a few different sizes in your toolbox to accommodate different pipe diameters.
Plunger
A plunger is a simple yet effective tool that can unclog drains and toilets. It creates a suction force that dislodges blockages when you push and pull it. A plunger is handy for clearing minor clogs without the need for harsh chemicals or calling a plumber. Make sure to have both a sink plunger and a toilet plunger in your home for different types of clogs.
Plumber’s Tape
Plumber’s tape, also known as Teflon tape, is a thin white tape that is used to seal pipe threads. It prevents leaks by creating a watertight seal between pipe fittings. Plumber’s tape is easy to use. Simply wrap it around the male threads of the fitting before attaching it to the female threads. Having plumber’s tape on hand will save you from dealing with annoying leaks and drips.
Pipe Cutter
A pipe cutter is a must-have tool if you need to repair or replace sections of pipes. It allows you to make clean, precise cuts on copper, brass, or plastic pipes. A pipe cutter consists of a sharp cutting wheel that scores the pipe as you rotate it around. Once the pipe is scored, it can be snapped cleanly with minimal effort. With a pipe cutter, you can easily cut pipes to the desired length without the need for a saw.
Plumbing Snake
A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is a flexible cable that is used to remove stubborn clogs from drains. It is inserted into the drain and rotated to break up or retrieve the blockage. A plumbing snake is particularly useful for unclogging shower drains, sink drains, or bathtub drains. Having a plumbing snake can save you from the hassle and expense of calling a plumber for a simple clog.
In conclusion, as a homeowner, it is essential to have a set of plumbing tools to handle minor plumbing issues that may arise. The tools mentioned in this article, including an adjustable wrench, pipe wrench, plunger, plumber’s tape, pipe cutter, and plumbing snake, will equip you to handle most common plumbing repairs. By investing in these tools, you can save both time and money by taking care of small plumbing problems on your own.
