When it comes to handling minor plumbing issues around the house, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. From unblocking drains to fixing leaks, being equipped with essential plumbing tools can save you time and money.
In this blog post, we will explore the top 14 DIY plumbing tools that every homeowner should have in their toolkit. We’ll cover a range of tools, from plungers to pipe cutters, and provide insights on how to choose the right tool for the job. Additionally, we’ll address common questions about preventing plumbing problems and expanding your tool collection. Let’s dive in and empower you to tackle plumbing tasks with confidence!
The following list includes some of the most useful and commonly-used plumbing tools every homeowner should have in their arsenal:
- Plunger
- Plumbers Drain Unblocker Snake
- Adjustable Spanner/Wrench
- Water Pump Pliers
- Mole Grips
- Basin Wrench/Monoblock Spanners
- Junior Hacksaw/Hacksaw
- Pipe Cutter/Pipe Slice
- Plumb Tub
- Sealant Gun
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- Tape Measure
- Drain Cleaner
- Utility Key/Radiator Key
Each tool has its own distinct purpose and can make many types of repairs quicker and more efficient if used correctly.
Plunger
A discussion on the topic of plumbing tools every homeowner should own should include an exploration of two key items: cup plungers and bellows plungers.
A cup plunger works by forming a seal over a drain and creating suction when it is pushed down to dislodge any obstructions in the pipe.
Bellows plungers, on the other hand, are designed with an accordion-like rubber cup attached to a handle which is operated by pumping up and down to create pressure that can clear blockages.
Ultimately, both types of plungers are essential components in any homeowner’s arsenal for addressing minor plumbing issues.
Cup Plunger
The cup plunger is often used to clear clogs in drains or toilets. It typically consists of a rubber cup-shaped base connected to a handle and is considered one of the basic plumber tools, making it an essential must-have tool for plumbers.
The cup plunger is ideal for tight spaces because its design allows it to fit easily in areas with limited space, such as around drainage pipes or other plumbing fixtures. Additionally, the suction created by the cup plunger can be effective in dislodging blockages and clearing out clogged drains.
This makes it an important part of any plumber’s tools and equipment, allowing them to resolve plumbing issues quickly and efficiently.
Below is our recommendation for a cup plunger
Merriway BH01938 100mm (4 inch) Sink Plunger
- Suitable for unblocking and cleaning shower, sink, drain, toilets etc
Bellows Plunger
Designed to reach tight spaces, the bellows plunger is an effective tool for clearing out clogged drains and dislodging blockages. It is a common tool of a plumber that can be found in most basic plumbers toolkits.
The plunger has a handle connected to a flexible rubber cup with an accordion-like structure that allows it to expand when pushed down on the drain opening and form a seal around it. When used correctly, the bellows plunger can generate enough suction pressure to remove blockages from pipes or toilets without damaging them.
To use this tool effectively, position the plunger over the drain opening and press down firmly while simultaneously pumping up and down several times until the blockage is cleared away. This process may need to be repeated multiple times for stubborn blockages or debris build-up.
The bellows plunger is a versatile plumbing tool that allows homeowners to quickly clear blocked drains without needing professional help.
Luigi’s Sink and Drain Plunger
for Bathrooms, Kitchens, Sinks, Baths and Showers
- 𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗞 𝗕𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗔𝗦𝗧
- 𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗗 𝗗𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦
- 𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗩𝗬 𝗗𝗨𝗧𝗬
Plumbers Drain Unblocker Snake
This type of unblocker snake is often used by plumbers to remove clogs from drains. A plumbers drain unblocker snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is composed of a flexible metal cable with a corkscrew-like head.
The flexible cable is inserted into the drain and when it reaches the blockage, the head works like an auger to break up and clear away any debris that could be causing the blockage. This type of plumbing tool can save homeowners time and money by allowing them to quickly identify and address any clogs in their home’s drainage system.
The use of a plumber’s drain unblocker snake requires certain safety precautions such as wearing gloves, eye protection, and taking care not to damage pipes or fixtures during insertion or removal. Additionally, protective eyewear should always be worn when using this kind of tool as pieces of broken debris may fly out when loosening or breaking up blockages. It’s important for anyone using this tool to understand how it works before attempting any repairs or maintenance on their own.
While there are many tools available on the market today designed specifically for removing clogs from drains, professional plumbers usually prefer to work with an auger since it offers more control over the process than other methods do.
Using a plumber’s drain unblocker snake is an effective way for homeowners to take control over small drainage jobs around their house without needing professional help every time something goes wrong with their home’s plumbing system. The tool itself is relatively inexpensive and easy-to-use making it ideal for those who want quick solutions but don’t have much experience dealing with common household repairs yet still desire results that are just as reliable as those provided by professional services at a fraction of the cost.
THORQUE Professional Flexible Plumbing Snake
Sink Unblocker and Drain Unblocker Tool
- Suitable for Basins, Sinks, Baths and Showers
- Wire is kept within drum when not in use
- 7m long means suitable for most household blockages
- Use with a drill
Adjustable Spanner/Wrench
An adjustable spanner/wrench is a versatile tool that can be used to tighten or loosen various sizes of nuts and bolts. It consists of a U-shaped head connected to an adjustable jaw, which is adjusted using a thumbwheel screw at one end. The size of the jaws can be altered by rotating the wheel, thus allowing it to grip different sizes of nuts and bolts.
Its versatility makes it an important tool for any homeowner who may need to undertake plumbing repairs, adjust outdoor fixtures, or perform other DIY tasks around the home. The design of adjustable spanners/wrenches has evolved over time, with some offering additional features such as locking mechanisms or softer ends for improved grip and reducing the chance of scratching fittings.
When buying an adjustable spanner/wrench, there are several factors to consider including its length and material construction. Longer spanners offer more leverage when tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.
Bahco BHADJUST 3 ADJ3 Set of 3 Adjustable Wrenches
Water Pump Pliers
Moving on, water pump pliers are another essential plumbing tool for homeowners. These pliers have long handles to apply maximum leverage in tight spaces. Water pump pliers are also known as tongue and groove pliers or Channellock pliers.
The jaws of these pliers can be adjusted with one hand; this is done by squeezing or releasing the handles to change the size of the jaw opening. The adjustable jaw allows them to fit a variety of shapes and sizes of nuts, bolts, pipes and fittings in tight spaces that would otherwise require two separate tools.
The design of water pump pliers makes them easy to grip when using them in wet conditions or when working with greasy parts such as taps or valves. They offer a secure grip even if your hands are slippery due to sweat or oils from the materials being worked on. The long handles provide extra leverage when tightening or loosening nuts and bolts that may have been rusted over time.
It’s important to note that they should never be used instead of an adjustable spanner/wrench since it could result in damage to components due to their lack of precision adjustments compared with an adjustable spanner/wrench.
When purchasing water pump pliers, look for those made from high-grade steel for durability and rust resistance, as well as non-slip comfort grips for greater control while working with wet hands. As a general guide they should measure around 8 inches long but there are longer options available if you need more reach into tighter spots – such as behind sinks or toilets – where space is limited.
It’s worth noting that although water pump pliers can be used for many applications around the home, they may not always be suitable depending on what needs doing – so it’s always best to check before proceeding ahead with any work you plan on carrying out yourself!
WORKPRO Water Pump Pliers
Set of 2
- Tongue & groove adjusting jaws for different sizes of components
- Extra wide jaw opening up to 40 and 52mm. Quick release with push button
- Non-slip handles for secure, comfortable hold
- chrome vanadium steel for hardness and toughness
Mole Grips/Locking Pliers
Mole grips are a versatile tool for plumbing tasks, providing reliable grip and leverage in tight spaces. They are also referred to as locking pliers or Vise-Grips and are used by professional plumbers as well as homeowners.
The gripping end of the mole grip is flat and contains serrated teeth that allow the user to securely grasp onto items, such as pipes, bolts, or nuts. This makes them ideal for use in places with limited space, and users must work with their hands instead of power tools.
The other end of the mole grip is curved with a groove at its base that allows users to adjust the size of their grip on an item using a lever mechanism. This provides greater control over objects when compared to traditional pliers or wrenches, allowing users to hold onto objects tightly yet make adjustments easily if needed. Additionally, some models come with additional features such as wire cutters or needle nose tips for increased versatility.
Regarding safety, mole grips offer superior protection from slips or accidental release due to their secure locking mechanism, which prevents them from releasing once clamped down on an object until they are intentionally released by the user with a lever action. Furthermore, because they can be adjusted quickly without having to remove one’s hands from around an object, this can reduce fatigue associated with holding onto awkward shapes while trying to finish complicated tasks involving plumbing fixtures like taps and valves.
Mole grips provide both professionals and homeowners alike a great deal of versatility when it comes to plumbing tasks in tight spaces where other tools might not be able to fit comfortably or offer enough control over an item being worked on. They are easy-to-use tools that require minimal effort but can make all the difference between successfully completing a job or having it take much longer than expected due to lack of proper tools available at hand during those situations. It is however important to note that like water pump pliers they grip very tightly and can damage nuts so should be used in situations where a Wrench/spanner can’t be used.
OX Pro Locking Pliers
Basin Wrench/Monoblock Spanners
Basin Wrench
Mole grips are useful for gripping and turning plumbing fixtures, however a basin wrench or monobloc spanner is essential to install the majority of today’s taps.
Basin wrenches are used to access hard-to-reach places like under basins, sinks and baths, where the normal spanner cannot reach. They have a long neck with an adjustable jaw that can be adjusted to fit into tight angles.
Rothenberger Telescopic Basin Wrench
70225 32mm
- Telescopic, adjustable to fit spaces large and small
- 4 Length adjustments
- Head pivots so tool can be used at any angle
Monobloc Spanner
One of the essential plumbing tools that every homeowner should own is a monobloc spanner set. This double-ended box spanner set, which comes with a tommy bar, is perfect for tightening bolts in confined spaces.
It is made of durable alloy steel, with an unpolished finish, and includes six sizes commonly used in metric systems. It is hand-powered and can be used with other tools for added leverage. This set is ideal for changing monobloc taps in Kitchens and bathrooms around the house.
Both tools provide ease of use when trying to install or repair plumbing fixtures in tight spaces or awkward positions such as under sinks or baths. This is because they both feature long handles which allow for greater leverage allowing them to loosen and tighten fasteners with little effort compared to using conventional spanners or pliers.
Furthermore, their flexible head allows them to reach around obstacles quickly without having the need for additional tools like extensions bars or universal joints.
The flexibility of these tools makes them ideal for quick fixes around the home or even emergency repairs; they are relatively inexpensive making them accessible by most homeowners who may not necessarily have lots of experience dealing with plumbing tasks but need basic equipment on hand for those occasions when things go wrong unexpectedly.
Silverline Monobloc Back Nut Tap Spanner Set
5 piece 8/9, 9/11, 10/11 and 12/13 mm
- Corrosion-resistant, zinc-plated steel
- Long reach for access in restricted areas
- For 8/9, 9/11, 10/11, 12/13 mm fittings
- Includes tommy bar
- For fitting back nuts to monobloc taps
Junior Hacksaw/Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a type of saw typically used for cutting through metal, plastic, and other materials. A junior hacksaw is a smaller version of this tool designed for more precise cuts. It usually has an adjustable blade that can be set at different angles to achieve desired cuts. The handle often features a comfortable grip, making it suitable for use in tight spaces or over long periods of time.
Hacksaws are composed of two main components: the frame and the blade. The frame holds the blade in place and can be adjusted to accommodate different lengths and thicknesses of blades depending on the job requirements. Blades come in various tooth sizes such as coarse, medium, fine, extra-fine and even specialized ones for particular jobs like woodworking or cutting tile grout.
Hacksaws are widely used by professionals in plumbing work due to their ability to easily cut through most metals including copper pipes. They can also be used on PVC pipes which require special blades with tungsten carbide teeth that won’t chip or break during operation.
The versatility of these tools make them necessary additions to any homeowner’s toolkit who wants to tackle plumbing projects around their home safely and effectively.
Bahco Hacksaw Frame + Junior Hacksaw Twin Pack
XMS19HACK2
- Twin pack perfect for cutting pipes
- Junior hacksaw great for smaller spaces
Pipe Cutter/Pipe Slice
An essential tool for plumbing projects, a pipe cutter or pipe slice is designed to easily cut through pipes of various sizes and materials. They can be used on copper, galvanized steel, PVC, ABS and other types of plastic piping.
Pipe slices often feature a circular cutting wheel which is tightened around the piped and then rotated until it cuts through the material.
Using a pipe cutter or slice can help ensure a clean cut. This makes them an ideal choice for jobs where precision is important such as in plumbing installation projects where exact measurements are required for proper fitment of parts like flanges and elbows.
Additionally, it is also useful in repairing existing plumbing systems by allowing users to remove sections with less mess than if done by using traditional saws leaving a serrated edge on the pipe that will need to be filed down.
Pipe slices come in different sizes depending on the size of the pipes they are intended to be used on; small ones for 8, 10 and 15mm diameter pipes while larger ones will work on 22mm and 28mm diameters. We would suggest that if you only want one an adjustable one is perfect for homeowners, they need to be adjusted while cutting but cut any size of pipe in one tool.
Bahco 3mm-35mm Tube Cutter
BH302-35
- Capable of cutting diameters from 3mm to 35mm
- The heavy knob allows a fast adjustment from one diameter to another
- Can cut copper, bronze, aluminium and steel tubes
Plumb Tub
Plumbing tasks can be daunting for the average homeowner, but having the right tools on hand can make the job easier. One of the most essential tools is the Plumb Tub, which is a flexible and versatile solution for draining radiators when decorating or replacing them and catching water from pipes.
The Plumb Tub is suitable for use on various pipe sizes, from 10mm to 22mm, and can hold up to 1.4 litres of water. It is designed to fit into those awkward nooks and crannies that traditional tubs won’t reach thanks to its bendy and flexible design. Flexible flanges also create a perfect seal every time, making it a great choice for a variety of plumbing tasks.
When using the Plumb Tub, some users may find it difficult to get the seal around pipes close to the wall. In these cases, a plastic sheet and old towel can be used to catch extra water. Some pipes may also need to be packed up to reach the straight part of the pipe before starting work. A bucket and plastic spray can cap can also be handy for bailing out the tray if the volume of water is too much for the tray on its own.
The Plumb Tub is an essential tool for any homeowner who wants to take on their own plumbing tasks. With its flexible design and perfect sealing capabilities, it is a must-have for any DIY plumbing job.
Plumb Tub
Perfect for draining radiators
- Snap clip holds tub in position for draining of radiator
- Suitable for 10mm, 15mm & 22mm Copper or Plastic Pipe Sizes
- Helps prevent unsightly stains on carpets and floors
Sealant Gun
A silicone gun, also known as a caulk gun or sealant gun, is used to dispense sealants such as silicone and acrylics in order to fill gaps and cracks in surfaces.
This tool is essential for creating a water-tight seal around fixtures like showers and sinks that require water-tight installation.
Silicone guns are designed with two main parts: the barrel and the trigger mechanism.
The barrel is where the sealant cartridge is loaded, which can be cut into portions according to the amount of material needed for each application.
In addition, many models come equipped with spout cutters which allow users to easily adjust the size of the nozzle on the cartridge for precise application.
When using this tool it’s important to wear safety goggles since some materials can cause irritation if they get into your eyes.
In short, having a silicon gun at home is essential because it allows homeowners to easily apply sealants without needing professional help or specialised tools.
It’s an inexpensive way to maintain water-tight installations around fixtures that need extra protection against moisture damage or leaks over time without taking up too much space in your garage or workshop.
OX Pro Heavy Duty Sealant Gun 400ml
- Heavy duty professional sealant gun,
- High thrust trigger action with adjustable screw
- Built for ultimate power and durability
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for the safety of individuals when completing home plumbing tasks.
Gloves are a key piece of PPE which provide protection from contact with hazardous materials, preventing skin irritation, burns or cuts.
Goggles should also be worn to protect eyes from corrosive liquids and debris that can be stirred up during plumbing work. They can prevent permanent eye damage caused by long-term exposure to certain chemicals or other irritants.
Gloves
Working with plumbing requires the use of gloves to protect hands from sharp edges and potentially hazardous materials. Gloves are absolutely essential for any plumbing job, even for the small tasks like unclogging a drain or fixing a leaky faucet.
For all types of plumbing jobs, it is important to wear thick protective gloves that can guard against cuts and splinters from working with sharp tools and fittings. The right kind of gloves will also provide protection against harsh chemicals such as those found in cleaners or solvents used during installation or repairs.
When shopping for gloves to use while working on plumbing projects, be sure to look for ones made from materials such as nitrile, latex, neoprene, vinyl, kevlar or cotton. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses; however they all offer some degree of hand protection from potential hazards while working with pipes and other components.
It is also recommended to choose gloves that have an extended cuff length so that arms are protected in addition to hands.
DEX FIT Cru553 Cut Resistant Gloves
3D Comfort Stretch Fit, Power Grip, Durable Foam Nitrile, Smart Touch, Machine Washable, Lightweight
- Level 5 Cut Protection
- Lightweight
- Can still use touch screen devices with them on
- Various sizes available
Goggles
Goggles are an important item to wear when working on plumbing projects, as they provide added protection for the eyes.
Goggles protect eyes from potential hazards such as dust, dirt, sparks and even liquids that might splash onto face during a project.
It is also recommended to use protective eyewear when using power tools or chemical cleaners.
Furthermore, goggles with anti-fog lenses can help reduce eye fatigue and keep vision clear throughout the duration of the project.
When choosing a pair of protective goggles it is important to consider what type of protection will be needed for the specific project being undertaken.
Options range from safety glasses that offer basic protection against impacts and debris to full-seal goggles that provide complete coverage against all hazardous materials.
Additionally, many brands offer styles with adjustable straps or foam lining for maximum comfort while wearing them.
All in all, goggles are a must-have item for any plumbing job and should be chosen carefully based on each individual’s needs.
NoCry Safety Glasses with Clear Anti Fog Scratch Resistant Wrap-Around Lenses
No-Slip Grips, UV Protection, Adjustable.
- Tough, polycarbonate wraparound construction, these hard-wearing safety glasses provide superior eye protection from both direct and peripheral threats.
- Extendable arms and an adjustable soft nose pad so you always get the perfect fit. They’re also armed with non-slip rubber grips so your protective eyewear stays on.
Tape Measure
Accurate measurements are essential for successful plumbing projects, making a tape measure an indispensable item. For the homeowner, there is a wide variety of tape measures available that cater to the specific needs of their project.
The most common type of tape measure for plumbers is the retractable metal measuring tape, which can be extended up to 25-feet in length. To ensure accuracy, this type of tape measure should have both metric and imperial markings on it.
For smaller measurements, such as those needed when installing sinks and faucets, it is best to use a smaller cloth or plastic measuring tape that can easily fit into tight spaces and has both metric and imperial markings on it. It should also feature a belt clip so that it can stay attached while working around the house.
Finally, for more accurate measurements when installing pipes and other fixtures in walls or ceilings, consider using laser distance meters instead of traditional tapes measures as they offer greater precision over long distances with minimal effort required from the user.
Regardless of what type of measurement tool you choose for your home plumbing projects, having at least one good quality item will help make sure your projects turn out successful every time by providing accurate results quickly without having to repeat tasks due to inaccurate readings.
STANLEY FATMAX Tape Measure Blade Armor 8m
Metric and Imperial Shock Resistant with Mylar Coating and Cushion Grip
- Huge standout of 3.35 m for easy one person measuring
- Mylar coated blade is up to 10 times more resistant to abrasion than normal lacquered blades
- Wide 32mm blade makes reading the numbers easy
Drain Cleaner
Cleaning drains regularly is an important part of a successful plumbing project, making drain cleaners an essential item for many individuals. Drain cleaners can help unclog blocked drains and remove grease, hair, soap scum, and other debris from the pipes.
The most common type of drain cleaner is the chemical-based variety which uses caustic chemicals to break down organic matter in the pipes. However, these products should only be used with caution since they are corrosive and can damage some types of piping if not used correctly.
Other types of drain cleaners such as drain snakes or plungers can provide more targeted cleaning power while avoiding harsh chemicals.
To choose the right drain cleaner for your needs it’s important to understand the basic workings of each type available on the market today. Chemical-based drain cleaners usually come in liquid form and contain a combination of ingredients like sodium hydroxide or sulphuric acid that will cause chemical reactions when mixed with water.
These reactions create heat that helps dissolve clogs and make it easier to flush them away. You need to be careful when using them as pouring them too fast into ceramic products like toilets can cause them to crack from the sudden increase in temperature.
No matter what type you select, it’s always important to read all instructions carefully before using any kind of drain cleaner product so that you know exactly what type of material it works best on as well as how much should be used.
In addition, safety equipment such as protective goggles and gloves should also be worn when handling any kind of chemical-based cleaner so that no accidental splashes can occur during use which could result in injury or burns on exposed skin surfaces.
You might need to go to your local Plumbing/DIY store for this one as they are strong acid based producsts, our recommendations are Dambuster or One Shot. Avoid the drain cleaners sold in the supermarket.
Utility Key/Radiator Keys
Utility keys are essential tools for any plumbing maintenance task, as they provide an efficient and reliable way to open up radiators bleed valves and meter cupboards.
Merriway Workshop Assortment of Radiator and Meter Utility Keys
Pack of 4 Pieces
- Selection to keep at home
- 1x Meter box key, 1x 4 Way key and 2x Radiator bleed keys
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to prevent plumbing problems in the home?
Preventing plumbing problems in the home is essential to maintain a healthy and safe living environment. One of the best ways to do this is by regularly inspecting visible pipes for potential signs of wear and tear such as leaks, corrosion, discoloration, or clogged drains.
Additionally, homeowners should check underneath sinks and behind toilets for any water condensation that may indicate an issue with the piping system. Homeowners can also reduce their chances of having plumbing issues by ensuring they have clean traps installed on all sinks and showers to catch hair before it enters the drainage system.
Finally, investing in quality fixtures from reputable manufacturers can help ensure that everything remains functioning properly over time.
How do I know which plumbing tool is right for my job?
When considering which plumbing tool is right for a job, it is important to first understand the scope of the project.
An essential factor to consider is the size and type of pipes being worked with. Different tools are designed for different types of pipes and can vary in how they operate.
It is also important to make sure that any tools being used are compatible with other components such as valves, washers, etc.
Additionally, research should be conducted on the best technique for using each tool to ensure safety and proper use.
Understanding these factors will help a homeowner select the right plumbing tool for their job.
What other tools do I need in addition to the Top 10 Plumbing Tools?
In addition to the essential plumbing tools, homeowners may also need a variety of additional supplies for certain projects. These can include items such as:
- Putty knives
- Propane torch
- Tubing benders
- Flashlights
Conclusion
Plumbing tools are essential for any homeowner who wants to be prepared for basic plumbing repairs. Having the right tool can make a big difference when it comes to tackling plumbing issues.
Plungers, plumbers’ drain unblocker snakes, adjustable spanners/wrenches, water pump pliers, mole grips, PPE, tape measures, drain cleaners and utility keys/radiator keys are all essential items that should be part of every homeowner’s tool kit.
These items provide homeowners with the ability to address many common plumbing problems without the assistance of a professional plumber. With these tools on hand, homeowners can handle minor repairs quickly and easily while saving time and money.
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