In this article, we are discussing the 8 essential tools that every home plumber needs in their toolbox. The video, hosted by the Grumpy Plumber, features Jim sharing his 48 years of plumbing experience and recommending these must-have tools. From channel locks and basin wrenches to screwdrivers and sockets, Jim provides valuable advice on the tools that will come in handy for any plumbing job. He also suggests the use of a closet auger instead of a plunger and emphasizes the importance of having a couple of pipe wrenches. Whether you’re a new homeowner or an experienced one, these tools are essential for any DIY plumbing project, and the article provides a comprehensive list to help you get started.
Channel Locks
Channel locks are an essential tool for plumbers. These versatile pliers are often used by plumbers over 99% of the time. Channel locks, also known as tongue and groove pliers, are available in various sizes and types. One popular brand is called Channellock, but there are other reputable brands as well.
These pliers have an adjustable jaw, which allows them to accommodate different sizes of pipes, nuts, and bolts. They provide a firm grip and can handle a wide range of applications. Channel locks are especially useful for tightening or loosening pipe fittings that are difficult to reach, such as those located in tight corners or underneath sinks.
Plumbers commonly use two types of channel locks: the 420 Channellock pliers and the 430 Channellock pliers. The 420 model is 9.5 inches long and has a jaw opening capacity of 1.5 inches. The 430 model is slightly larger, measuring 10 inches in length and having a jaw opening capacity of 1.625 inches.
The benefits of using channel locks are numerous. They make it easier to grip and manipulate objects with irregular shapes. They also reduce the risk of damaging the surface of pipes, nuts, or bolts. Furthermore, their adjustable nature ensures a secure and tight grip, allowing for efficient and effective plumbing repairs.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a crucial tool for plumbers, especially when working on faucets or sinks. This long-handled wrench is specifically designed to reach into tight spaces and is essential for accessing hard-to-reach areas under sinks or behind toilets.
To use a basin wrench, you extend the arm and position its jaws around the faucet nut or pipe fitting that needs to be tightened or loosened. The long handle provides the necessary leverage to exert force, enabling you to turn the nut in the desired direction. Basin wrenches typically have a self-tightening feature that allows them to grip the nut securely.
When choosing a basin wrench, it is important to consider its quality. Investing in a good-quality basin wrench ensures durability and reliability. While you may find cheaper alternatives, it is advisable to opt for renowned brands that offer superior grip strength and rugged construction. Spending a little more on a quality basin wrench will ensure that it lasts longer and performs better in various plumbing scenarios.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are an indispensable tool for plumbers. They come in various types and sizes, each serving a specific purpose. The most common types of screwdrivers used in plumbing are Phillips and flat-bladed screwdrivers.
A good-quality Phillips screwdriver is necessary for tightening or loosening screws that feature a cross-shaped indentation on the head. Flat-bladed screwdrivers, on the other hand, are ideal for screws with a single straight slot on the head. It is important to have both types in your toolbox to cover a wide range of plumbing applications.
When choosing screwdrivers, it is recommended to opt for reliable brands such as Klein. Klein Tools manufactures high-quality electrical tools that are suitable for plumbing tasks as well. Their screwdrivers are known for their durability and long-lasting performance. Investing in a reputable brand ensures that you have precise and reliable tools that can handle the demands of plumbing work.
Nut Drivers
Nut drivers are essential tools in the plumbing industry. These tools are used to tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, and screws. Nut drivers are especially useful when dealing with toilet flanges and fixtures. Unlike regular wrenches, nut drivers provide a more precise and controlled grip.
Klein Tools is a reputable brand that produces nut drivers with a hollow shaft. This design feature allows the nut driver to fit over taller bolts, making it easier to access and manipulate hard-to-reach areas. Nut drivers are available in a set with various sizes, typically ranging from a quarter inch to half an inch.
Using nut drivers instead of regular wrenches offers several advantages. Firstly, nut drivers provide a more comfortable and ergonomic grip, reducing the strain on your hands and allowing you to work for extended periods without discomfort. Secondly, their hollow shaft design enables plumbers to work on bolts of different heights, improving the overall flexibility and efficiency of the tool.
Deep Set of Sockets
A deep set of sockets is a valuable tool for plumbers. These sockets are designed to access and remove nuts or bolts set deep within pipes or fixtures. While regular sockets may not be long enough to reach these components, deep sockets can easily grip and remove them.
The benefits of using a deep set of sockets in plumbing are significant. The deep design allows for greater torque and leverage, making it easier to remove stubborn or rusted nuts or bolts. Deep sockets are especially useful when working on faucets or shower fixtures that are recessed within walls. With the right socket size, you can efficiently disassemble and repair plumbing fixtures with minimal effort.
Recommended socket sizes for common plumbing tasks include 1/2 inch, 9/16 inch, 5/8 inch, and 3/4 inch. These sizes cover the majority of plumbing scenarios and ensure that you have the necessary tools to tackle various repairs or installations.
Allen Wrenches
Allen wrenches, also known as hex keys, are essential tools for plumbers. These wrenches feature a hexagonal cross-section and are used to tighten or loosen screws or bolts with hexagonal sockets.
It is important to have both American and metric allen wrenches in your toolbox, as different plumbing fixtures may require one or the other. American allen wrenches are commonly used in the United States, while metric allen wrenches are prevalent in plumbing fixtures from other countries.
When purchasing a set of allen wrenches, it is advisable to choose a high-quality product that offers durability and precision. A reliable set of allen wrenches will provide a secure and accurate fit, reducing the risk of damaging bolts or screws during plumbing repairs.
Closet Auger
A closet auger is a specialized plumbing tool used to unclog toilets and clear shower drains. This peculiar-looking tool consists of a flexible cable with a coiled or hook-shaped end that is inserted into the drain pipe.
To use a closet auger to clean a toilet, you insert the tool into the drain, rotate the handle to advance the cable, and maneuver it to break up and remove clogs. The unique design of the closet auger allows it to reach deep into the toilet’s plumbing system, effectively removing blockages that a plunger may struggle to dislodge.
In addition to its primary use in toilets, a closet auger can also be used to clean out shower drains. The auger’s cable is flexible enough to navigate through the twists and turns of drain pipes and effectively remove debris and hair that may be causing clogs.
The closet auger is a more effective and efficient tool compared to a conventional plunger when it comes to clearing tough clogs. It is recommended to have a closet auger on hand in your toolbox, as it can save you from the frustration and inconvenience of a blocked toilet or shower drain.
Pipe Wrenches
Pipe wrenches are an essential tool for every plumber. These adjustable wrenches have serrated teeth that provide a strong grip on pipes and fittings. Pipe wrenches are commonly used to tighten or loosen threaded pipes or pipe fittings.
Pipe wrenches come in various sizes, with the most common being 12 inches and 14 inches. It is advisable to have both sizes in your toolbox to cover a wide range of plumbing applications. The longer handle of the 14-inch wrench provides more leverage, making it easier to manipulate and tighten stubborn pipes.
Pipe wrenches are often used in conjunction with channel locks to ensure a secure grip on pipes during plumbing repairs. They are indispensable when working with metal pipes, as they provide the necessary torque to tighten or loosen fittings without damaging the pipe’s surface.
Importance for Home Plumbers
Every home plumber should have these essential tools in their toolbox. With the right tools, you can effectively handle various plumbing issues that may arise in your home. Being able to fix plumbing problems on your own not only saves you time but also money.
By having the necessary tools, you can quickly address common plumbing issues such as leaky faucets, clogged drains, or malfunctioning toilets. Instead of hiring a professional plumber and incurring additional costs, you can tackle these problems yourself.
Moreover, having the ability to perform DIY plumbing repairs gives you a sense of empowerment and self-reliance. You become more confident in managing your home’s plumbing system and can troubleshoot and resolve issues promptly. This independence allows you to take control of maintaining and repairing your plumbing, preventing further damage and costly repairs.
In addition to the money-saving aspect, DIY plumbing also offers the opportunity to develop practical skills and knowledge. With experience and practice, you can become proficient in various plumbing tasks, which may prove beneficial in the long run. Furthermore, the satisfaction of successfully completing a plumbing repair on your own is rewarding and can boost your confidence in handling future challenges.
Conclusion
In summary, having the right tools is crucial for every plumber, whether they are professionals or home plumbers. Channel locks, basin wrenches, screwdrivers, nut drivers, deep sets of sockets, allen wrenches, closet augers, and pipe wrenches are among the essential tools that every plumber should have in their toolbox.
Channel locks are versatile pliers that provide a secure and adjustable grip, making them invaluable in various plumbing situations. Basin wrenches allow access to hard-to-reach areas, where they can be used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. Screwdrivers come in different types and sizes, necessary for handling screws of varying heads. Nut drivers offer a more precise and comfortable grip when working with small bolts and nuts. Deep sets of sockets enable plumbers to access and remove nuts or bolts deep within pipes or fixtures. Allen wrenches are essential for handling screws or bolts with hexagonal heads. Closet augers are effective tools for unclogging toilets and shower drains. Pipe wrenches provide a strong grip on pipes and fittings, making them indispensable in plumbing repairs.
By having these essential tools, home plumbers can effectively troubleshoot and address common plumbing issues. The ability to perform DIY plumbing repairs not only saves money but also instills a sense of self-reliance and practical skills. So, if you’re a home plumber, make sure to equip your toolbox with these essential tools and enjoy the benefits of DIY plumbing.
