Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

It’s easy to forget about your home’s plumbing when everything is running smoothly. But that’s the right time to stock up on these handy plumbing tools. Here’s our list of plumbing tools every homeowner should have on hand. Even if you’re not the do it yourself type it’s a good idea to have these tools as they can help you keep things from going from bad to worse while you wait for a professional plumber to arrive.

7 Plumbing Tools You Should Own

1. Wrenches – There are many kinds of wrenches, but when it comes to plumbing the pipe wrench is a staple. As a homeowner there’s bound to be a time when you will need to tighten or loosen your pipes and a pipe wrench will help you do just that. They provide a significant amount of leverage and have adjustable jaws to grip pipes firmly.
2. Plunger – Clogs happen, and most can unhappen with a little help from a plunger. Whether it’s the kitchen sink or a toilet, the concept is the same, however the plunger may vary. A cup lunger is best for sinks and tubs and a flange plunger will get you a better seal on a toilet. Create a tight seal, use pressure up and down to create suction, and release. Here are a few more details as well as a few helpful hints on preventing clogs.
3. Toilet Augers – An auger is a great tool to have around when a plunger just is not enough to clear a toilet clog. But the only auger you want to use on your toilet is a toilet auger because they are specifically designed to clear toilet clogs without damaging the porcelain.
4. Plumer’s Tape – Also known as thread seal tape is a thin white tape that you can wrap around pipe threads to ensure a tight seal. Great for shower heads and any fixes to your water line.
5. Needle Noise Pliers – These work great for grasping smaller fittings and, in a pinch, may even help you clear hair from your shower or tub drain without a hand auger.
6. Duct Tape – We are certainly not recommending duct tape as a long term or permeant fix for any plumbing issue, but no household should be without roll or two. A good quality roll of duct tape could help keep a leak under control while you work to get things fixed properly.
7. The Number for a Trusted Plumber – Even the greatest do-it-yourselfers need backup sometimes. Having the number for a professional plumber at the ready can help save valuable time and reduce panic in a real plumbing emergency.

Having these plumbing tools on hand doesn’t mean you’ll be able to prevent any disaster from happening, but it does mean that you’ll be prepared to handle it. Check out our most commonly asked plumbing questions. 7 Plumbing Tips for Beginners, and Expert Plumbing Advice for more beginner plumbing answers. And if you come to a problem too big to handle, avoid these common plumbing mistakes and know you can always count on One Hour Rooter. We’re your trusted plumber in the Twin Cities Metro area and are ready to help will any plumbing issue you have. Just give us a call at 612-354-8984.