Whether a pro or a beginner, having the right tools is important for doing the job well.
Here’s a complete list of plumbing tools every plumber should have in their toolkit.
These basic and advanced tools will help you handle various plumbing tasks easily.
Key Takeaways
- Essential plumbing tools speed up your work and help you solve problems easily.
- Straight pipe wrenches are designed to grip and turn pipes easily.
- Adjustable wrenches can be used for many different plumbing jobs.
- Basin wrenches are designed to reach and work in tight spaces.
- Pipe cutters come in different kinds to cut materials like copper or steel.
- Power plumbing tools make hard jobs easier with extra strength and speed.
- Knee pads protect your knees, lessen strain, and help you work longer.
List Of Plumbing Tools Every Plumber Should Own
Check out the must-have tools for every plumber.
These tools are needed for all sorts of plumbing tasks.
With the right tools, plumbing jobs are quicker and easier.
1. Essential Plumbing Tools
To handle plumbing jobs effectively, having the right tools is key.
Essential plumbing tools help you work more efficiently and solve problems quickly.
Here’s a look at some must-have tools every plumber should own:
A. Pipe Wrenches
Pipe wrenches come in two types:
- Straight
- Offset
Straight pipe wrenches have a simple design for gripping and turning pipes.
Offset pipe wrenches have a bent handle, which helps reach pipes in tight spots.
Essential plumbing tools like pipe wrenches are important for tightening and loosening pipes.
They provide a strong grip, making it easier to turn pipes without damaging them.
B. Adjustable Wrenches
Adjustable wrenches come in different sizes and have a movable jaw to grip various nuts.
They’re flexible because you can adjust the width to fit different fittings.
Adjustable wrenches are multi-purpose tools for many plumbing jobs.
They’re great for adjusting nuts of various sizes.
C. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
Plumber’s tape, or Teflon tape, is a thin, stretchy tape used to seal pipe threads.
It helps create a waterproof seal and prevent leaks.
Plumber’s tape is an important plumbing tool for preventing leaks.
Wrapping it around pipe threads before joining them ensures that water doesn’t seep out.
It keeps the connections secure.
D. Basin Wrenches
Basin wrenches have a long, adjustable handle.
Their head can grip and turn nuts in tight, confined spaces, such as under sinks.
Basin wrenches are specialized plumbing tools for reaching and working in small spaces.
They make it easier to loosen or tighten nuts that are hard to access.
E. Pipe Cutters
Pipe cutters come in different types for cutting various pipe materials, like copper or steel.
A rotating blade or cutting wheel is used to make detailed cuts.
They help you get smooth, straight edges.
It is important for creating secure and leak-free pipe connections.
2. Specialized Plumbing Tools
Specialized plumbing tools are made to handle unique plumbing challenges.
They make difficult tasks easier and ensure the job is done right.
A. Plumbing Snake (Auger)
Plumbing snakes, or augers, come in two types:
- Handheld
- Motorized.
Handheld ones are used by hand for small clogs.
While motorized ones are powered and can handle bigger blockages.
These are used to clear blockages in pipes so water can flow again.
B. Pipe Inspection Cameras
Pipe inspection cameras have a small camera on a flexible cable.
These cameras provide a clear view of the inside of pipes.
They help find problems like leaks or clogs without taking the pipes apart.
C. Water Pump
Water pumps are important tools for moving and removing water in plumbing situations.
They come in different types, like:
- Submersible (for removing water from wells)
- Centrifugal (for moving water through pipes).
They help move or remove water from places like basements and wells.
3. Plumbing Tools To Measure And Level
Plumbing tools for measuring and leveling help ensure everything is installed correctly.
These tools ensure pipes and fixtures are the right size and perfectly set.
A. Tape Measure
A tape measure is a flexible tool used to measure lengths and distances accurately.
Getting the correct sizes when cutting pipes and fitting parts is important.
Using a tape measure helps ensure everything fits properly and works as planned.
It prevents mistakes and saves time.
B. Level
A level is a tool for checking whether a surface is perfectly horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb).
It has a bubble in a liquid that moves to show if the surface is straight.
It helps avoid issues later on.
4. Power Plumbing Tools
Power plumbing tools make tough jobs easier by providing extra strength and speed.
They help plumbers work faster and handle big jobs with less effort.
A. Cordless (Wireless) Drill
A cordless drill is a must-have power tool in a plumber’s.
It is a talented tool that can drill holes and drive screws without needing to be plugged in.
You can change the drill bits to match the job.
B. Reciprocating (Moving) Saw
A reciprocating saw cuts through wood, metal, and plastic.
It has a back-and-forth motion that makes it effective for tough cuts and destruction work.
C. Pipe Threader
A pipe threader is used to create threads on the ends of pipes so they can be screwed together.
It’s important for joining pipes securely and is used when working with metal pipes.
5. Safety Gear For Plumbers
Safety gear for plumbers keeps you safe and comfortable while you work.
A. Safety Glasses
Safety glasses are important for protecting your eyes from flying debris.
Tiny bits can get into your eyes when plumbers cut pipes or work with different materials.
Wearing safety glasses helps prevent these injuries and keeps your vision clear.
B. Gloves
Gloves are important for protecting hands during plumbing tasks.
There are different types of gloves for various plumbing jobs.
Some are designed to avoid cuts, while others keep your hands dry.
They shield hands from sharp objects, chemicals, and rough surfaces.
It makes your work safer and more comfortable.
C. Knee Pads
Using knee pads helps prevent injuries.
They are important for both comfort and protection when you have to kneel on hard surfaces.
Knee pads cushion your knees, reduce strain, and make it easier to work for longer periods.
Maintenance And Organization Of Plumbing Tools
Organizing and maintaining your plumbing tools is important for working efficiently.
Proper care helps ensure your tools last longer and perform well.
1. Tool Bags And Boxes
Tool bags and boxes help you keep all your plumbing tools organized and in one place.
They make it easy to find and access what you need quickly.
This way, you won’t waste time searching for your tools.
2. Cleaning And Maintenance
Cleaning and caring for your plumbing tools regularly helps them last longer.
It also keeps them in good shape by preventing rust.
Conclusion
This article discusses the list of plumbing essentials every plumber should own.
It includes essential and specialized power plumbing tools and safety gear.
Furthermore, the maintenance and organization of plumbing tools have been discussed.