Nearly every homeowner will have to address some kind of plumbing problem around their house at one point or another. While there’s no replacement for plumbing repairs from a professional plumber, homeowners may be able to perform quick DIY fixes for simple plumbing problems. With some DIY know-how and a little bit of elbow grease, homeowners can save money, prevent plumbing issues from worsening, and achieve that special sense of self-confidence after a job well done. However, before getting started, homeowners need to prepare the right tools for the job. Below, our skilled Gainesville plumbers list six plumbing tools everyone should own.
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Plungers
It might sound obvious, but plungers are the quintessential plumbing tool everyone should own. Generally, it’s wise to have a flange plunger and a cup plunger handy. Flange plungers are used for clearing toilet clogs and have a longer handle and a cup that extends beyond the dome of the plunger head, while cup plungers are used for clearing clogs in sinks and showers. Having both handy can ensure you’re ready for any kind of household clog!
Pipe Wrench
As its name suggests, pipe wrenches are perfect for tightening or loosening threaded pipe fittings or nuts. The pipe wrench’s jaw features serrated teeth allowing for a strong grip, making it ideal for loosening overly tight pipe fittings. You may even want to invest in more than one pipe wrench, as having two allows you to hold pipes in place while using the other to adjust fittings.
Toilet Auger
A toilet auger, also known as a closet auger or water closet auger, is a specialized form of drain snake used to bore through drain clogs. These clog-clearing devices use a long metal rod that reaches into a toilet’s drainage hole to break up tough clogs. In situations where your plunger just isn’t cutting it, a toilet auger can be a lifesaver.
Tongue-And-Groove Pliers
Tongue-and-groove pliers are a common DIY plumbing tool. These pliers are ideal for pulling, twisting, holding, and tightening or releasing things. This tool’s advantage is its long handles, which allow for increased leverage. Additionally, consider getting two different sizes, so you can accommodate all types of plumbing layouts.
Plumbers Tape
A minor yet frustrating plumbing issue is a leaky threaded joint. Plumber’s tape, also known as Teflon tape, is a tool that helps prevent this issue from developing. Essentially, by wrapping plumber’s tape around fixtures before attaching them, you can create a watertight seal that prevents those pesky leaks.