Ever wondered what separates a professional plumber from a novice?
It’s not just their expertise, but the tools they use. Imagine tackling a stubborn leak, a faulty valve, or a challenging pipe installation without the right tools. Sounds daunting, right?
Read on to learn about the must-have tools and accessories that plumbing professionals need to have!
Pipe Wrenches
Pipe wrenches are a plumber’s best friend. These bulky, heavy-duty tools come with jaws that grip tightly onto pipes and pipe fittings. They are perfect for tightening and loosening.
There are two types of pipe wrenches. One type is a straight design used for holding and turning. The other type has a slight bend in its handle to work in tight spaces.
It’s important to have different sizes of these tools. This is because different jobs call for different wrench sizes. Without these tools, it would be tough to do any pipe work.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a unique tool that comes in handy when working under sinks. It has a long shaft and a swiveling jaw at the end. This design makes it easier to reach, grip, and turn nuts that hold faucets in place.
These nuts are usually in tight spaces that are tough for other types of wrenches to reach. If a professional plumber needs to install or remove a faucet in a sink, a basin wrench is the tool they would likely use.
Toilet Auger
A toilet auger is a key tool for any plumber. It’s a special type of snake made to clear blockages from toilets. Its design allows it to move easily inside the toilet without causing damage.
One end has a crank that you turn to push the snake through the toilet. The other end grabs onto the clog to pull it out.
This tool is often a plumber’s first choice when a plunger doesn’t work. Having a toilet auger in their toolbox allows a plumber to tackle toilet clogs with confidence.
Adjustable Spanner
An adjustable spanner is a tool that saves space and offers versatility. Think of it as a one-size-fits-all solution. It tweaks its size to fit a range of nuts and bolts.
How does it work? It has a screw in the head, which adjusts the jaws’ width. Spin it one way to make the jaws open wider, and the other way to make them close tighter.
This tool is useful when dealing with various-sized nuts and bolts. A plumber doesn’t need to carry a full set of different-sized wrenches, the adjustable spanner has it covered!
Pipe Cutter
A pipe cutter is a crucial part of the plumbing toolkit. It’s used to cut through pipes neatly and quickly. A good pipe cutter can slice through copper, brass, and aluminum tubes.
There are different types, but all have a sharp, curved blade and a clamp. You place the pipe in the clamp and turn the cutter around the pipe. As you turn it, the blade slices deeper into the pipe.
Little by little, the pipe is cut. This tool is a must-have for plumbers because it helps make clean, smooth cuts. Having one in the toolbox means a plumber is always ready to cut pipes when needed.
Plunger
A plunger is a common tool not just for plumbers, but for homeowners too. It’s handy for fixing minor clogs in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. A plunger has a rubber cup at one end and a wooden or plastic handle at the other.
Using it is simple: place the rubber cup over the drain and push the handle down and up. This action creates a force that can dislodge the clog. Every plumber has at least one plunger in their tool kit because it’s great for quick fixes.
Drain Snake
A drain snake is another valuable tool for plumbers. Think of it as a long, flexible metal rod that can reach deep into drains to unclog them. It is more effective than a plunger for tougher blockages.
You push it into the drain until it hits the clog. Then, you turn a handle to break up the blockage or hook onto it to pull it out.
A drain snake is perfect for clearing clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers. If a plunger can’t fix the issue, a drain snake is the next best tool to use.
Wilger Flow Indicators
Wilger Flow Indicators are vital tools for plumbers. They let a plumber know how well water is flowing through a pipe.
If the water flow is weak, it could mean there’s a blockage or leak. This tool is small and compact, making it easy to use and carry around. It has a clear, see-through body that makes it easy to view the water flow.
With a glance, a plumber can tell if there’s a problem. Having a Wilger Flow Indicator in their toolbox allows plumbers to easily check and maintain proper water flow.
Teflon Tape
Teflon tape, also known as plumber’s tape, is a must-have in any plumbing toolbox. This thin, white tape helps seal pipe threads. It stops leaks in joints and fittings.
When you wrap it around the threads of a pipe, it fills in any gaps. This aids in making a tight, leak-proof seal. The tape is easy to apply and remove, making it a top choice for many plumbing tasks.
Plus, it’s inexpensive and widely available. Every plumbing professional should have Teflon tape on hand.
Pipe Inspection Camera
A pipe inspection camera is a super helpful device for plumbers. It’s a small camera attached to a long, flexible cable.
This device helps plumbers see inside pipes, even those that are underground or behind walls. With this camera, it’s easy to find and analyze problems like leaks, clogs, or damage. The plumber can watch the footage on a screen as the camera moves through the pipe.
This can save a lot of time and effort because the plumber can pinpoint the problem without having to guess or dig up your yard. This tool is key for modern, efficient plumbing work.
Plumbing Professionals Need These in Their Arsenal
Plumbing professionals rely on a variety of essential tools to tackle their day-to-day tasks. These instruments are indispensable and empower them to resolve even the most complex plumbing issues.
With these tools in their arsenal, they are truly masters of their craft. Remember, the right tools make all the difference!
Did you learn something new from this article? For more tips and guides, keep checking out our blog!
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