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Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have in Their Toolbox

There is a certain satisfaction that comes with tackling household plumbing issues yourself. Whether it is tightening a connection or unclogging a drain, having the right tools on hand can save you money and frustration. 

This guide covers the essential Plumbing tools every homeowner should have to minimize the need for professional intervention. Even with the best tools, extensive plumbing issues should be taken care of by a professional plumber. The experience and tools that professionals have saves a lot of time and money. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-canberra/blocked-drains-canberra/ have professional plumbing services that need experienced professionals. 

Adjustable Pipe Wrench 

A pipe wrench is an essential plumbing tool every homeowner should have in their toolbox. It adjusts to fit a variety of nuts and bolts, making it ideal for loosening or tightening many types of plumbing fixtures. It’s recommended to keep several sizes on hand for greater versatility. 

Slip-joint pliers, also known as plumber’s pliers, have smooth jaws to prevent damage to plumbing fixture finishes during repairs. They’re ideal for holding one nut or fitting steady while working on the other, and can also be used to bend or grip in tight plumbing situations. 

A drain snake is a flexible auger that can easily reach deep down into sink or tub drains to remove hair and product buildup that may cause clogs. A basin wrench has a rotating, self-adjusting head that can grip and turn fasteners in tight spaces like behind sinks. 

Drain Snake 

Unlike chemical drain cleaners or sink plungers that rely on air bursts or physical reactions, a drain snake uses a mechanical auger to physically dig through blockages and clear them out. Proper snaking techniques include preparing the pipes for insertion, slow and deliberate cable feeds, and angled adjustments to avoid bending or kinking piping. 

When a plunger can’t dislodge the clog, a drain snake is a great solution for homeowners to have on hand. A hand-crank drain snake can also be used to remove stubborn, clogged toilets. Start by uncoiling the snake and feeding it into the drain slowly. If you encounter resistance, you’ll know that you’ve reached the clog. Rotate and push the snake further into the pipe while feeding it. Repeat until the clog has been broken up or removed. 

Channel-Type Pliers 

While serious plumbing problems should always be handled by a professional, being equipped with the right tools and understanding how to use them can save you time and money. This guide will arm you with the knowledge necessary to tackle minor plumbing tasks like unclogging drains and repairing leaky taps

Keep a pair of rubber gloves handy to protect your hands from grime and chemicals

during plumbing repairs. A bucket is also essential for catching spills and holding your tools. 

Having a pair of channel-type pliers on hand is important for gripping pipes and fittings. The long handles allow you to reach tight spots and twist hard-to-grasp nuts. Keep a nipple extractor in your toolbox to remove old or broken pipe nipples without damaging the fittings. Keeping thread seal tape, or PTFE tape, on hand is also an excellent way to fix leaks and reduce water waste around the house. 

Plumber’s Putty 

A small pot of plumber’s putty is a trusty sidekick for your plumbing toolkit, preventing leaks and making fixture installations a breeze. This pliable sealing staple is a favorite among many professionals and DIY enthusiasts due to its versatility and ease of use. 

This malleable compound feels like clay but never hardens, providing a watertight seal for taps, sink drains, and other plumbing components. Just make sure the surfaces you’re preparing to apply it to are clean and dry before applying. 

Finally, a bucket is a handy tool for catching water and keeping your plumbing tools safe from messes. It can also be used to transport your supplies between different locations during repairs. For added safety, always wear a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from gunk and debris. 

Needle Nose Pliers 

Needle-nose pliers have narrow, pointed jaws that let you grip tiny items with precision. They can be used to remove jewelry clasps, grip a screw in a tight spot, or make tiny wire loops. They're also essential tools for repairing electronics and other delicate work. 

The needle-nose pliers market is growing largely on the basis of increased DIY home improvement activities, growth in the electrical and electronic industry, expansion of the automotive and electric vehicle markets, and innovation in hand tools. Crescent Tools, Milwaukee Tool, Stanley Black & Decker, and Klein Tools are some of the prominent companies in the world that are contributing significantly to the growth of the needle-nose pliers market. 

If you don't have a pair of Kleins, try this Tekton set. It includes three pairs of pliers, including one with angled jaws for getting into hard-to-reach spaces that standard pliers won't reach.

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