Plumbing Tools and Their Uses

Plumbing issues are an inevitable part of homeownership. For major leaks or damage, it often makes sense to call a plumber and have a professional assess the situation. That said, there are other times when it can be more economical to use your own tools for the job. It's important that you feel comfortable with these tools so you can make the most of them in the event of an emergency.

Do Your Own Plumbing Repairs With These Tools

If you want to become more self-sufficient around the house, there are a few basic plumbing tools that you may need for simple repairs and maintenance. Some of these tools include:

• Wrench: Wrenches come in handy for all types of tasks thanks to their excellent grip. You might use one of these tools if you need to tighten or remove pipes, nuts, and fixtures. There are multiple types of wrenches for different applications, so you might consider keeping a few of the most common ones nearby, like adjustable wrenches, pipe wrenches, and basin wrenches.
• Tubing cutter: Tubing cutters offer precision and efficiency for cutting through copper and PVC plastic pipes. By buying multiple cutters of different sizes, you can work with larger pipes and in more narrow spaces if necessary. These are the ideal tools to use if you need to penetrate material with something that can make clean, quick cuts.
• Plunger: A plunger is one of the most important plumbing tools, and you may already have one at home for toilet clogs. This is a simple and affordable tool that repairs clogged drains by using the power of suction and pressure. There are plungers designed for toilets, tub drains, and sink drains, which makes it easy for you to remove most clogs.
• Hacksaw: While a hacksaw is less precise than a tubing cutter, it can still be a useful tool for cutting through metal and PVC pipes. The advantage of having a hacksaw is that it’s more versatile, proving an effective tool for all types of tasks. You may consider buying both a hacksaw and a few tubing cutters for different applications.
• Drain auger: A drain auger, also known as a plumber’s snake, is a tool you can use to remove clogs from drains. Although this is a purpose also served by plungers, some clogs might be a little too tough for the average plunger. A drain auger comes with coils at the end, which the user turns and lowers into the drain using a crank. This allows the user to break up the clog or pull out the obstacle.
• Pliers: If you need tools that can improve your grip on smaller objects, make sure to have a few pairs of pliers on hand. Plumbers often use pliers to unscrew pipes or loosen bolts and nuts. Needle-nose pliers, in particular, are handy for working in small spaces that may not fit larger tools.

Request an Estimate Today

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Syracuse is the ideal solution when you need a professional's touch for a plumbing maintenance or repair job. We serve both local residences and businesses with our range of tools and expertise. Contact us today or request a job estimate for more information.