Having a basic understanding of plumbing is a valuable skill for any homeowner. Being able to fix minor issues can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of waiting for a plumbing service. However, to tackle these problems, you need the right tools. Whether you’re planning to DIY your home’s minor plumbing issues or just want to be prepared for emergencies, this comprehensive guide will discuss the essential plumbing tools every homeowner should have on hand.
Plunger
The first tool on our list is the humble plunger, a must-have in every Mesa area household. There are several types of plungers – the common cup plunger, the flange plunger for toilets, and the accordion plunger. When faced with a stubborn clog in your toilet, sink, or tub, a plunger can often provide the quickest and easiest solution.
Pipe Wrench
The pipe wrench is a staple in the plumber’s tool kit. Known for its robust construction and serrated jaws, this tool provides a strong grip and leverage for pipes and fittings. A pair of pipe wrenches could be useful: one for holding the pipe and the other for turning the fitting. Remember to buy a high-quality pipe wrench, as cheaper versions can damage your plumbing fixtures.
Tongue-and-Groove Pliers
Also known as channel locks, tongue-and-groove pliers come in various sizes and are extremely versatile. With their adjustable jaws, they can grip, pull, tighten, or loosen various objects of different sizes, making them an indispensable tool for any plumbing work.
Plumber’s Tape
Plumber’s tape, also called Teflon tape, is used to seal pipe threads to prevent leaks in plumbing and air pipes. This thin white tape is wrapped around the threads before they’re screwed together, creating a water-tight seal. It’s a simple tool, but it’s critical in preventing leaks and ensuring a smooth plumbing repair process.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench, or sink wrench, is specifically designed for working in tight spaces under sinks, like on faucets or water chillers. Its long shaft and swiveling jaw make it perfect for loosening or tightening nuts and fittings that are hard to reach.
Plumber’s Putty
This is a handy sealing compound used to create water-tight seals around faucets and drains. Plumber’s putty remains soft for a long time, making it easy to mold and allowing for easy disassembly if required.
Hand Auger and Snake
When the plunger fails to clear a clog, you’ll need something more powerful. That’s where the hand auger and snake come in. The hand auger, also known as a plumber’s snake, is a hand-cranked device that can break up clogs in toilets and household drains. The snake is similar, but it’s designed to navigate the tight curves of smaller drain pipes.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is used for supply lines, compression fittings, and other plumbing components that require a tight grip. It’s best to have a couple of different sizes on hand, as nuts and bolts can vary widely in size.
Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a versatile tool that can cut through pipes, hardware, screws, nuts, and bolts. Be sure to keep some extra blades on hand, as they can become dull or break with heavy usage.
Tube and Plastic Pipe Cutters
These are essential for any DIY plumbing work involving cutting pipes. Tube cutters provide a clean, straight cut on copper or brass tubes, while plastic pipe cutters are designed for PVC pipes.
Closet Auger
A closet auger is a special tool designed to clear clogs in toilets. It has a flexible shaft that can reach beyond the toilet trap and dislodge tough clogs. This tool is especially handy when a plunger or a hand auger fails to do the trick.
Fire-Resistant Cloth
While not exclusively a plumbing tool, a fire-resistant cloth is a must-have when you need to use a propane torch for sweating copper pipes. This cloth will protect surrounding areas and materials from catching fire.
Propane Torch
Speaking of propane torches, this tool is essential for homeowners who are comfortable handling more complex DIY plumbing repairs, like soldering pipes. It’s used to heat and join copper pipes together. Always remember to follow safety precautions when using a propane torch.
Pipe Deburring Tool
When you cut a pipe, it often leaves sharp edges or small burrs on the inside. A pipe deburring tool is used to clean these out. It’s important because these burrs can create turbulence in the water flow, leading to unnecessary noise and potential damage.
Water Meter Key
In case of a plumbing emergency where you need to shut off the water supply to your entire house, a water meter key will come in handy. This tool is used to unlock the city water meter box, allowing you to access the shut-off valve.
Faucet Valve Seat Wrench
Over time, the valve seat in your faucet may wear out or corrode, causing a leaky bathroom faucet. A faucet valve seat wrench is the tool you need to remove these valve seats for replacement or repair.
In conclusion, having these tools on hand can help you tackle minor plumbing issues; it’s crucial to know when to call in a professional plumber. Plumbing can be complicated, and a small mistake can lead to significant problems in your Coolidge area home. If you ever feel unsure, it’s best to save yourself the potential trouble and contact a professional.
Remember, the key to successful DIY plumbing repairs is not only having the right tools but also understanding how and when to use them. So, equip yourself with these plumbing essentials and arm yourself with the knowledge to use them effectively, ensuring your home’s plumbing system remains in tip-top condition.
