The Plumbing Tools List
The Wrenches
The wrench is synonymous with plumbing. No plumbing tool list would be complete without it!
1. Pipe Wrench
The pipe wrench is the largest wrench a plumber can use. These tools are used to tighten and loosen bolts and fittings on pipes. Two wrenches are commonly used together by plumbers to hold pipes in place and rotate the fittings or nuts in the right direction. Pipe wrenches come with a variety of lengths. Prepared plumbers will often carry a full set of these tools.
2. Basin Wrench
The basin wrench, a T-shaped tool used by plumbers for fixing faucets is the basin wrench. Plumbers can use the clamp-like mechanism at one end of these wrenches to reach tight spaces and tighten or loosen nuts.
3. Adjustable Wrench
The adjustable wrench is used to tighten or loosen hexagonal fittings and nuts on pipes. The wrenches are available in a variety of sizes but plumbers typically have the 6-inch or 10-inch versions.
4. Faucet Key
This wrench is not a standard one, but it is a crucial part of any list of plumbing tools. Faucet keys can be described as small, X shaped tools used to open and shut spigots. There are many models available that can handle different stem fittings – 1/4″, 9/32″, 6/16″, and so on.
Pipe Work
Pipe tools are essential tools for plumbers. Modern plumbers can use a variety tools and techniques to replace, repair, modify, or install piping within tight spaces.
5. Hacksaw
Plumbers use hacksaws to cut through different hardware like pipes, bolts, nuts, bolts, screws, and so on. This is hard work, plumbers need to be sure to keep their blades secure (and have spare blades on hand).
6. Tube and Plastic Pipe Cutters
If you’re a trades person who deals with copper or plastic piping regularly (and you likely deal with both), then you’ll have to eventually remove, replace, and adjust them. There are many options for hand-held cutters so both new and veteran plumbers can find the best model.
7. Plumber’s Torch
Many plumbers solder copper pipes. To solder, you will need heat. Small, handheld tools allow them to apply intense heat to specific areas. They are an essential part of any plumbing tool list.
8. Thread Sealing tape
Plumbers commonly use “plumbers’ tape” to fix and prevent leaks in threaded joint connections within piping. The thread sealing tape can withstand high and low temperatures. It can be stretched for better coverage.
9. Pliers
Like wrenches, plumbers use pliers every day. These tools allow plumbers to remove and tighten small bolts and nuts too small for wrenches. These tools are easy to hold in the hand of a plumber and can squeeze into tight spots where a wrench wouldn’t.
10. Press Fitting Systems
A plumbing project is only as successful if the pipes are connected securely. Iron Pipe Size press-fitting machines press a connection onto pipes to form an impermeable seal or connection.
Because plumbers can connect with them in less than the time it takes us to weld or seller the pipes, they save plumbers both time and money.
Clearing Blockages and Clogs
Sometimes the problem with a pipe is not what it looks like. A plumber must regularly clean out drains. The best plumbers will know how to get around a stubborn clog. They also know which tools they need in order to keep homeowner’s pipes running smoothly.
11. Plungers
While most homeowners already have toilet plungers or sink plungers, plumbers should also have them. Trade professionals need to have heavy-duty flanges and cup plungers that produce significantly greater suction than the average consumer.
12. Auger Hand
A hand auger is a round, handheld device that allows plumbers with the use of a crank to drive a wire deep down a drain. This allows them to clear blockages and break down any clogs. Modern hand-auger technology is advancing rapidly. There are many models available and they can be added to your plumbing tool list. For small drains (handbasins or kitchen sinks), a drain snake and drain auger will suffice.
13. Snake Machine
A snake machine, is basically a larger, motorized version the hand auger. Snake machines are often able to fix clogs when they are very deep or hard to get out.
14. Inspection Camera (Bore scope)
Although inspection cameras were once the preferred technology of plumbers, they are now commonplace. This camera is tethered to a long flexible cable and is inserted deep into the sewer lines and drains to allow professionals to see the condition of the pipes and any obstructions. Prosumer models, which can connect directly to a smartphone, are now available for smaller plumbing companies.
Safety First
Plumbing professionals are aware that there are many ways to be hurt on the job. Many tools can be used to protect plumbers and lower the likelihood of them getting injured. These are the essential tools that plumbers need to be able to use in any discussion.
15. Goggles
As a plumber, you must be able to see the details and inspect any soldering or leaks that could cause damage to your eyes. A good plumber is also a trustworthy one. They arrive on-site with the appropriate eyewear.
16. Gloves
Plumbers have to deal with a lot of different items that no one wants to touch. There are many heavy duty gloves available that protect the hands of plumbers, make it easier to grasp slippery items, and provide a host of other benefits.
17. Heat Shields/Pads
If soldering is an integral part of your work life, it’s important to ensure that you have the correct safety equipment to protect the homeowner and yourself. They protect plumbers, the surrounding environment, from heat damage and fire during soldering.
Other Essentials
New technologies, and newer tools are all options for plumbers who want to make a difference in the industry.
18. PEX Pipe Expander & Fittings
PEX is one of the latest innovations in plumbing. It’s a resilient, flexible, and reliable plastic piping that provides unparalleled convenience and reliability. A PEX Expander is a tool similar to a drill that expands the pipe’s mouth for you to insert a metallic fitting. PEX piping does not lose its original shape and the fitting closes around the mouth to seal it, making water flow through.
19. Crimpers
The critical role of the crimp tool in PEX-related piping is played by plumbers, but they can also be used with other types. Crimping is the joining of multiple pieces of metal or another material together by deforming and squeezing one of them or both to keep them connected.
20. A stubby screwdriver
This might seem basic, but plumbers should include the stubby screwdriver on every list of plumbing tools. It can save the day when a plumber needs a tool to tighten or unfasten a screw in an area that is difficult to reach with an electric or regular screwdriver.
Plumbing professionals can buy stubby screwdrivers that have multiple flat head bits or Phillips bits.