Top Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

August 23, 2023

Every home experiences plumbing issues every now and then. Many of them can be fixed with a few tools, simple repairs, and some research. However, to take care of these repairs, homeowners need to have the right equipment on hand.

Essential Plumbing Tools

Whether you’ve got a leaky faucet or a poorly fastened toilet seat, here are a few plumbing tools every homeowner should have to take care of minor plumbing problems.

Below are eight plumbing tools every homeowner should own:

Plunger

A plunger is a handy tool for fixing a clogged toilet and even a clogged shower drain. Rather than buying harmful chemicals to clear up the drains, use a plunger to address clogged drains.

Toilets can easily be clogged, especially during busy seasons like during the holidays.Having a plunger can help clear clogs in no time. When purchasing a plunger, choose one with a gasket that fits inside your toilet for greater effectiveness.

Understand that a sink plunger is different from a toilet plunger. Sink plungers are specifically made for sink and bathtub drains and have a gasket as well.

Toilet auger

The toilet auger is another option for unclogging a toilet if a plunger fails to do the job. An auger works by forcing the debris down the pipe and into the sewer line.

Caulking gun

A caulking gun is a great tool for sealing up places prone to water damage, such as the shower. Be sure to clean and dry the surfaces before applying caulking

Wrenches

There are two types of wrenches that are commonly used in plumbing: pipe wrenches and basin wrenches. Here are the differences:

Basin wrench: A basin wrench is a great tool for making repairs in confined spaces and hard-to-reach areas. This wrench has a long handle and jaws at the end, making it ideal for tightening and or removing the faucet and filling valve lock nuts. The tool is available in many different sizes and offers multiple adjustments.
Pipe wrench: A pipe wrench is great for making repairs on rounded surfaces. This wrench has adjustable jaws that make it useful for gripping and turning pipes. They’re adjustable and the teeth will grip the pipe with maximum strength.

Tape

Make sure you are ready for any sticky situations with the right types of tape. You will likely need thread seal tape and duct tape.

Thread seal tape: Also known as PTFE, Teflon tape and plumber’s tape, thread seal tape is used for temporarily fixing leaks and preventing further water damage. Considering the fact that the average family can waste 180 gallons per week from household leaks, thread seal tape can make a big difference in monthly water costs.
Duct tape: Duct tape can be used for plumbing repairs, thanks to its high durability, stickiness, and water resistance. Be sure to have a few rolls on hand in case of an emergency.

Plumber’s putty

Plumber’s putty is used to prevent leaks around seals, particularly around faucets and drains from joints that aren’t under pressure

Needle nose and slip-joint pliers

Needle nose pliers are great for making repairs with very small objects and in very small spaces. Be sure to pick up a pair at your local hardware store to be prepared for future plumbing repairs.

Slip-joint pliers have many important uses. They can help recover a wedding ring dropped down the sink drain. They can also be used to bend and grip in tight plumbing situations. Slip-joint pliers have two sets of teeth and are able to grip small objects, like nails, and larger objects, like bolts.

Drain snake

A drain snake is a flexible auger used to clear debris like hair and product buildup that could cause clogs. This is a handy tool that won’t damage pipes and can help sinks and showers drain properly.

Heavy-duty rubber gloves

If you want to protect your hands, wrists and forearms from hair, gunk, waste and sharp objects, rubber gloves are a must. Be sure to buy heavy-duty gloves capable of withstanding extensive wear and tear.

Tape measure

A tape measure is an essential tool in the plumber’s toolkit and every homeowner should have one as well. A tape measure is necessary to take exact measurements and ensure repairs are done correctly and properly, especially in tight spaces.