A home isn’t complete without a handy toolbox that you can rely on for all of your home repair needs. Owning a home means eventually having to face plumbing problems! And whether you like to tackle DIY projects on a daily basis or if you just find yourself doing a few minor repairs here and there, there are a few essential plumbing tools that we believe all homeowners should have inside their toolbox. Owning and knowing how to use these tools is sure to give you the confidence boost you need to tackle any sudden problems that come your way!
- Plunger: This one should be a given, but you would be surprised how many realize they need a plunger when it’s already too late! Plungers are helpful when you have a clogged toilet or even a clogged sink! We recommend keeping one cup plunger for sinks and tubs, and one flange plunger for toilet clogs. This inexpensive tool is sure to help get you out of some minor plumbing problems!
- Drain Snake: A drain snake is a good tool to have when a clog gets too intense for your plunger. A drain snake is a long, coiled metal wire connected to a hand crank. To use it, place the end of the wire in the drain and uncoil it using the hand crank. As the wire uncoils, it pushes through the drain, clearing away clogs as it goes. This is a simple tool that allows you to clear debris like hair and product build-up without damaging your pipes.
- Adjustable Wrench: This is exactly what it sounds like! An adjustable wrench is where you can adjust how far the teeth open to fit pieces of various sizes. With this tool, you would be able to tighten or loosen most of the bolts, nuts, and fittings as needed. Adjustable wrenches are usually available in 6 or 10-inch varieties, and this refers to the length of the handle. It would be a good idea to keep both on hand!
- Heavy-Duty Rubber Gloves: These can be an overlooked yet essential tool! They will help to keep your hands, wrists, and forearms clean and protected from any sharp objects!
- A Water Pressure Gauge: This is a device that helps monitor performance parameters. Water systems and tanks function because the water or air that runs through them is pressurized. A pressure gauge will measure the force of the pressure in the water or air so that you can determine if you have any errors in your tank or systems.
- Plumbing Tape: This is also known as Teflon tape and this tape provides a reliable seal for preventing leakage of liquids and gases. Unlike putty, plumbing tape holds under and a significant amount of pressure. You will need this when you are putting pipes back together.
While you probably won’t use these tools every single day, trust us when we say that when you do need them, you will be relieved to have them! And remember not to feel overwhelmed when a plumbing problem does arise. If you have a problem that is just too much to handle — give us a call! Our team of experienced and dedicated plumbers would love to serve you. If you have any questions then you can contact us at 770.860.8110.