FEATURES
49
Everyday
plumbing tools
Plumbing entrepreneurs who have completed their initial training and want to
start their own business, must make sure they have the right tools for the job.
Before tackling a leaky pipe or clogged drain, make sure
your toolbox is stocked with some of these essential
plumbing tools. While some plumbing issues are
complex and require an expert hand and specialised
tools, some jobs are simpler: leaky pipes, clogged sinks,
or plugged-up toilets can be turned into jobs for
inexperienced plumbers.
However, before you dive into your plumbing project, you must
be prepared. Make sure you have the following in your toolbox:
1. BASIN WRENCH
A basin wrench is a staple for any plumber’s toolbox. It is
used to tighten and loosen nuts on sink faucets. The basin
wrench has a long shaft and a swivel, as well as a clamp-like
apparatus at the end. It can go into deep, narrow spaces
behind sinks in order to reach the faucet bolts.
2. ADJUSTABLE WRENCH
An adjustable wrench is perfect for compression fittings, supply
lines, and other plumbing parts that have hexagonal-shaped
nuts. Quality adjustable wrenches have a firm jaw setting that
won’t slip while you work. You should get both a six-inch and a
10-inch adjustable wrench for your toolbox.
3. PIPE WRENCH
Often larger than the adjustable wrench, the pipe wrench is a
heavy tool that tightens and loosens fittings and nuts. Two pipe
wrenches will be needed, as one is used to turn while the other
is used to grip and hold during your project. Be sure to wrap the
wrench’s jaw in cloth to avoid damage to your fixtures’ finishes.
4. TONGUE-AND-GROOVE PLIERS
To grab, twist, pull, hold, tighten, or loosen something, make
sure your toolbox has a pair of tongue-and-groove pliers. This
versatile tool is a type of slip-joint plier with serrated jaws that
are set about 45 to 60 degrees from the handles, giving it a
curved appearance.
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5. HACKSAW
With a hacksaw, you will be able to cut through metal and
plastic pipes, screws, nuts, and bolts, and other hardware as
needed. Be sure to keep extra blades in your toolbox in case
the hacksaw’s blade grows dull or breaks. When handling tough
cuts, make sure the blade is tense for easier use.
Be sure to have two
pipe wrenches in
your toolbox, as one
is used to turn while
the other is used to
grip and hold during
your project.
6. METAL FILE
Smooth the edges of cut metal pipes with a metal file. There
are different file sizes, and it is recommended that you have a
half-round file and a rat-tail file in your plumbing toolbox. Half-
round files have rounded and flat surfaces, while a rat-tail file is
round and tapered.
7. THREAD SEAL TAPE
Also known as plumber’s tape or PTFE tape, thread seal tape
helps prevent leaks at threaded plumbing joint connections.
This tape is inexpensive and can be used for a number of
plumbing projects. Use it on shower heads or water line
connections.
8. HAND AUGER
When a plunger cannot handle a clog, try a hand auger. A hand
auger uses a hand crank to push a metal wire through the
drains of tubs, showers, or sinks to clear them of clogs. A hand
auger should not be used on flush toilets — instead, use a
toilet or closet auger to do the job.
9. TUBING CUTTER
An essential plumbing tool to have in your toolbox, a tubing
cutter cuts copper pipes. It will ensure smooth and even cuts
every time. Consider purchasing both a standard tubing cutter
as well as a mini-cutter. The mini-cutter is great for tight,
hard-to-reach places.
10. TOILET PLUNGERS (FLANGE AND CUP)
Plungers are essential for any household, and it is a good idea
to have both flange and cup plungers on hand. PA
July 2018 Volume 24 I Number 5
Compiled by Cherry Ellis