As a homeowner, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of plumbing and the necessary tools to maintain your plumbing system. With the right tools, you can quickly tackle minor plumbing issues before they turn into costly problems. Here are eight must-have plumbing tools for home maintenance:
Plunger
A plunger is the most basic plumbing tool that every homeowner should have. It’s used to unclog drains and toilets by creating suction that dislodges blockages. It’s advisable to have two plungers – one for the sink and another for the toilet.
Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is a heavy-duty wrench that’s perfect for gripping and tightening or loosening pipes. It’s ideal for tasks like changing faucets, showerheads, and other plumbing fixtures. There are two types of pipe wrenches – the straight jaw and the curved jaw. The curved jaw is more versatile and can grip a wider range of pipe sizes.
Adjustable Wrench
A flexible tool that can be used to tighten or loosen bolts, nuts, and fittings is an adjustable wrench. It’s essential for plumbing tasks like installing or repairing faucets, sink drains, and water supply lines.
Teflon Tape
Teflon tape is a thin, white tape used to seal pipe threads and prevent leaks. It’s an inexpensive tool that can save you a lot of money in the long run. Wrap the tape around the pipe threads in a clockwise direction before screwing on a fitting.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a long-handled tool used on the base of sinks, to tighten or loosen nuts. It’s designed to fit into tight spaces and can make installing or replacing faucets much more manageable.
Pipe Cutter
A pipe cutter is used to cut pipes cleanly and evenly. It’s an essential tool for installing or repairing water supply lines, drain pipes, and gas lines. There are two types of pipe cutters – the ratcheting type and the scissor type. The ratcheting type is easier to use and provides a cleaner cut.
Drain Snake
A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a flexible wire tool used to unclog drains. It’s designed to reach deep into the drain and dislodge blockages like hair, food, and soap scum. A manual drain snake is easy to use and can save you the cost of calling a plumber.
Compression Sleeve Puller
A compression sleeve puller is used to remove compression sleeves and nuts from pipes. It’s a specialized tool that’s ideal for repairing or replacing shut-off valves, angle stops, and supply lines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the right plumbing tools can save you time and money when it comes to home maintenance. With these essential tools, you can tackle minor plumbing issues and avoid costly repairs. Keep these tools handy and be prepared for any plumbing emergency that comes your way.