Having the right tools makes all the difference when it comes to plumbing jobs. These 10 tools are an essential addition to any plumber’s toolbox.
A plunger is an important first step in removing most clogs. For more stubborn ones, a drain snake or auger can help break apart and clear pipes.
Hacksaw
While certain plumbing issues should only be handled by professional plumbers, homeowners can often use basic tools to fix them in a pinch. A hacksaw is a must-have tool for cutting pipes and other materials, as well as a metal file to smooth rough edges. A pipe cutter is also important for resizing plastic pipes and water lines. Another useful tool is a nipple extractor, which allows plumbers to remove old or broken nipples from hex-shaped pipes without damaging them.
Plumbers also need a variety of screwdrivers, including a variety of sizes for different screws and bolts. A multi-bit screwdriver set can reduce the number of different types of screwdrivers needed on a job, and also makes it easier to work in tight spaces. Lastly, a basin wrench is useful for accessing the nuts and bolts under sinks.
Metal File
One of the most critical hand tools for plumbers is a metal file. It lets professionals cut through pipes and other hardware without having to dig them up. A hacksaw also makes the list of essential plumbing tools because it’s useful for wrangling with pipe sizes. A plumber’s screwdriver set should include various types of drivers including flatheads, Phillips, hex (Allen wrench) and torx.
Another handy tool is a basin wrench. It features a long handle designed to reach into tight, cramped spaces such as behind sinks for plumbing tasks like tightening or loosening faucet nuts. Other specialty tools include a nipple extractor and a drain-cleaning bladder that hooks onto a water hose and uses air pressure to push away clogs. Lastly, a crimp tool is important for plumbing PEX-related projects. It can be used to crimp metal fittings on pipes to secure them in place.
Auger
A pipe wrench is a must-have for any plumbing job that involves threaded pipes. Keep a range of sizes on hand to ensure you have the right tool for the job.
Needle nose pliers are a specialized plumbing tool that allows you to grip and turn objects in tight spaces where other tools won’t work. Also known as channel-type pliers, they have adjustable jaws that allow you to grip items of various sizes.
A drain auger is an essential tool for clearing clogged sink, tub, and toilet drains. A motorized version, called a drain snake machine, is great for when you’re working with larger drains. You’ll also want a pair of plumber’s gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and other hazards on the jobsite. Finally, reliable heat shield pads are an important accessory for plumbers because they protect them from hot surfaces and fire when soldering.
Pipe Tower
Steel pipes are a versatile building material that can be used for a variety of purposes. They’re durable, easy to work with, and come in a wide range of colors. They’re also affordable, making them the perfect option for DIY projects.
For ease of operation and maintenance it is desirable to have the maximum amount of piping accessible from ladders and platforms or removable from shell manholes or handholes. The access requirement must be balanced against the need to avoid obstructing the break flange bolts in a nozzle area.
A 4 leg angle tower typically requires about 20-25% more steel than a 3 leg pipe tower on a kilogram by kg basis. This is due to the extra nuts and bolts and welded connection components that are required. A 3 leg pipe tower usually includes integrally welded connections and eliminates these additional pieces.
Stubby Screwdriver
The stubby screwdriver allows tradesmen to work in confined spaces where long screwdrivers are not suitable. It has a bit magazine in the handle with double bits which are designed to match standard screw profiles – so it’s easy for tradesmen to find the right one when out on the job.
The ratcheting mechanism is extremely confident and responsive, and the bits are machined for an exact fit which minimises the potential for screw head cam-out. The handle is also soft on the grip area which improves load distribution and reduces muscle fatigue.
Packed with six different bits packed into the shaft, it covers the majority of fastener types for Pros and DIYers alike. However, the bits use a pin detent style which isn’t ideal for customizing after the fact. A great addition to a tool bag or glove compartment, and staples for Chesapeake plumbers.
Adjustable Wrench
A wrench is a must-have tool for every plumber. There are many different types of wrenches available, but the most useful ones for plumbers are pipe wrenches and basin wrenches.
These wrenches have a jaw that is adjustable and can fit a wide range of nut sizes. They are perfect for working with pipes and other metal fittings. Pipe wrenches are especially helpful when removing compression nuts and angle stops.
Another must-have hand tool for plumbers is a basin wrench, also known as a monkey wrench. This wrench allows plumbers to access hard-to-reach areas, such as underneath sinks. It also works well for loosening or tightening fixtures like faucets. Plumbers can use basin wrenches to replace or repair water supply lines, as well as to remove and install new fixtures. It is important for plumbers to keep solvent welding on hand as well, as it creates a tight and leak-free seal on threaded connections.
Strap Wrench
A strap wrench allows plumbers to grip and turn objects without risking scratching what they’re working on. This tool is useful for those times when a standard wrench or pliers simply won’t fit. The padded strap distributes the twisting force so it doesn’t damage pipe surfaces. Strap wrenches are available in many different materials, but rubber and aluminum models are best for plumbing applications.
Allen wrenches, also known as hex keys, can be used to rotate hexagonal sockets found on some faucet handles. Needle nose pliers have long jaws that can firmly grasp small items in tight spaces. Basin wrenches are designed to loosen or tighten the nuts under sinks. Duct tape can be a great temporary solution to leaks until you’re able to make a permanent repair. The key to a successful fix is preparation and using the right tools for the job.
Crimper
A crimper helps plumbers make tight, leak-free pipe connections by compressing metal crimp rings over pipes and fittings. They’re quick and easy to use, especially those with ratchet mechanisms. They’re also great for making PEX connections.
Though dripping faucets and running toilets are the top reasons plumbers get called to homes and businesses, clogged pipes come in a close second. That’s why it’s important for plumbing pros to keep a few drain-cleaning tools on hand.
A pipe cutter is the quintessential metal plumbing tool, but a plumber should have backups on hand to handle different tasks. A ratchet-style pipe cutter is best for cutting galvanized iron and steel pipes, while wheel pipe cutters provide more leverage and a cleaner cut. A tube bender allows plumbers to manipulate piping by bending and shaping rods, bars, and tubes. Also make sure you have enough rolls of plumber’s tape, which is a must for sealing and patching threaded connections.
Tube Bender
Pipes run throughout a home’s interior, and plumbers need the right tools to cut them, bend them, and connect them. A good set includes a pipe cutter (ideally at least four types: wheel, ratchet, internal, and chain), a tube bender, and a hole saw. It also helps to have a plumber’s torch, which allows the user to apply intense heat in precise areas—for example when soldering copper piping. Additionally, plumbers should always have plenty of plumber’s tape, which seals threaded pipe connections to prevent leaks.
Whether clearing drains, installing new fixtures, or managing dispatches and invoicing, the right tools make a difference to your plumbing business. Keep these handy at all times and stay in touch with your happy customers to drive referrals and growth. Download our free guide to learn more.
Sawzall
The Sawzall is one of the most powerful tools for plumbers to have in their toolkit. It allows them to perform a variety of tasks without having to do as much grunt work. It also features a ONE-KEY component that allows users to customize and track the tool’s performance for increased productivity.
A rotary hammer is a versatile tool for plumbers, as it can be used to do demolition work and remove old pipes. It’s also useful for breaking up clogs and doing small repairs on drains.
Needle nose pliers have long, tapered jaws that can grip and turn smaller objects in tight spaces. A pair of these tools is a must-have for plumbers. Duct tape is a necessary item for plumbers to carry, as it can be used to temporarily fix leaky pipes until they can make a permanent repair.