By Bellevue Plumbing Pro
We are the first to say that there is no substitute for professional plumbers. For simple jobs, or emergency situations like a burst pipe, it’s a good idea to have the tools and knowledge to do the job yourself. You’ll need the right tools to tackle any plumbing issues in your home.
These are the tools and supplies every DIY plumber needs to have on hand:
Pipe Wrench
Pipe wrenches, or rather, pipe wrenches. These heavy grippers are great because you can use one wrench for stability and the other to turn. For situations where you need to leverage your work, like loosening an old fitting that is rusted, the pipe wrench should be your best friend. A few rags are a great idea for your toolbox. This will allow you to wrap your pipes and fixtures before starting work, which can prevent scratches.
Basin Wrench
The basin wrench is not a typical wrench if you aren’t familiar with plumbing tools. The basin wrench is different from a standard wrench head. It has a spring-loaded clamping jaw that allows for tight gripping and turning bolts. This tool is ideal for tasks such as loosening nuts under a deep kitchen sink.
Adjustable Wrench
These wrenches are adjustable to fit various sizes of hardware, as their name implies. Adjustable wrenches can be inexpensive so it is a good idea to have several of them, especially if you are going to need one or two to clamp. For smaller jobs such as replacing showerheads or faucets, adjustable wrenches are the best.
Tongue and Groove Pliers
To help keep things in place, you will also need a pair of good tongue and groove pliers. Slip-joint pliers allow the jaws of these pliers to open wide and grab larger objects. Many pairs also have long handles, which make them ideal for turning, tightening, and loosening. Due to the serrated jaws of these pipes, you will need to wrap them in a rag.
Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s glue, also known as jointing compound or plumber’s putty, helps to create a watertight seal. A dab of plumber’s putty is a good choice for DIY repairs and upgrades like drains and faucets. It will prevent leaks and help keep the parts in place.
Plumber’s Tape
A leaky threaded connection, such as that connecting a showerhead and a pipe, is one of the most frustrating plumbing problems. Plumber’s tape is also known as thread seal tape or teflon tape. Wrap a few layers of tape around dry, clean threads. Make sure you wind the tape clockwise. The tape will seal your fixture when you attach it.
Plunger
It’s not a joke to call it the “plumber’s helper”. Your plunger can be used to clear clogged drains and overflowing toilets. It’s best to keep it in your bathroom, so that it is always available when you need it. To help you dive more efficiently, you might want to take the time to familiarize yourself with proper plunger technique.
Toilet Auger
If your plunger isn’t able to do the job, it’s time for the auger. To clear obstructions, a hand-crank toilet auger will insert a long, metal cable into the drain. It’s an inexpensive and easy tool that can help you save money on a difficult clog.
These tools are likely already in your toolbox, so adding more won’t be too costly. These tools can make the difference between having to call an emergency plumber or doing it yourself. If you do need to call a licensed plumber for assistance, please don’t delay contact us today.