Posts Tagged ‘Common Plumbing Tools’
Common Household Plumbing Tools
Common Household Plumbing Tools
Every household needs some sort of plumbing tools. Many of the most common plumbing tools are not plumbing tools at all. In fact, you probably already have many of the tools necessary for simple plumbing jobs around your house right now. However, certain plumbing jobs may require more specialized tools to complete the job. At a minimum, you should have wrenches, a plunger and an auger available to solve your simple plumbing problems. Having basic plumbing tools around the house will prevent routine calls to a licensed plumbing company.
Pipe Wrench
Buy yourself a sturdy pipe wrench for when you need a wrench that is the appropriate size and with the appropriate grip to loosen pipes. A medium-size, adjustable pipe wrench will suffice to tighten and loosen pipes and other plumbing connections. Your local hardware or plumbing-supply store will have these in stock in a variety of styles and prices.
A basin wrench is a specialized tool that will enable you to reach tight spots under sinks and basins. The jaws of a basin wrench are adjustable and accommodate nuts of different sizes. In addition, a basin wrench, when flipped over, allows you to keep turning the wrench without removing it from the nut.
A socket wrench set is another useful plumbing tool to have around. It is used for removing recessed packing nuts and on tub and shower fixtures. You’ll also find it handy to have around to complete other do-it-yourself household repairs.
If you need to change a toilet seat, a deep socket wrench will do the trick. And to remove a toilet for replacement or repair, you’ll most likely need a spud wrench. Older toilets sometimes have a large pipe (called a spud) which connects the tank to the bowl. An extra-large hexagonal slip nut holds the bowl to the tank. Consequently, a spud wrench is required to remove these slip nuts. Purchase an adjustable type of spud wrench as it will be more versatile than the nonadjustable type, which has a fixed opening at each end.
Other Plumbing Tools to Have Around
Augers, plungers, and snakes are tools designed specifically for plumbing. You’ll find these useful in almost any home repair project as well as most plumbing repair tasks. Plumbers’ snakes (or drain-and-trap augers) vary in length. For general use, a short snake is all you’ll need for most plumbing repairs. Look for a closet auger, a version of the plumbers’ snake designed specifically for clearing clogs in toilets. It will be a bit shorter than a regular snake, and comes encased in a plastic or metal housing with an easy-to-use crank.
Having some plumbing repair tools available to solve simple plumbing issues is paramount to being a responsible homeowner. Investing in these tools is ultimately an investment in the longevity of your home.
Post provided by: Bathroom Repair Plumber Alpharetta GA