There are a few basic plumbing tools that are necessary in any households. You should have these supplies in your convenient and easily accessible possession, since you never know when you will need them for any emergency situations. Whether it is a leaky pipe or a clogged drain, here are some basic plumbing tools that you should consider owning for all occasions:
Sink Auger: This is by far one of the most valuable plumbing tools that you can own. Great for clearing clogs in sinks and bathtubs,the auger consists of a long flexible cable coiled in between a drum shaped canister. By turning the canister, you can make the cable break up any challenging clogs in your drains.
Toilet Auger: Similar in use to the sink auger, this is specially designed for clearing clogs in toilets only. Commonly known as the closet auger, this special tool has a hand crank, a long sleeved handle, and an auger bit that can break apart any plumbing obstructions. It reaches around three feet.
Plunger: Shaped like a rubber cup with a wooden handle attached on one end, the plunger is most commonly known clearing up clogs. There are specialized plungers for the different occasions. Cup plungers are used for sinks and tubs, while the flange plunger is designed for the toilet bowls.
Wrench: Another commonly known tool, the adjustable pipe wrench allows you to tighten and secure control over pipe fittings. Its sharp serrated teeth are designed to grip around objects with increasing pressure. For removal purposes, it is recommended to put some tape over the teeth, so that the wrench will not leave behind any teeth marks on the fittings.
In addition to owning the right equipment, you should also take several other factors into account. It is not just important to own these tools, but also own the right kinds that best match your needs:
Costs and Quality: Tools come at different price ranges depending on your income levels. You should purchase a trustworthy and reliable brand with a reputation for producing solid quality of equipment. As long as the tools can get the job done effectively and efficiently, you should make the purchase as a long-term investment. Alternatively, rental options can also be considered, especially if these plumbing tools will not be frequently used outside of special occasions.
Function and Type: Make sure you purchase the right type of plumbing tools for your special occasion. For example, toilet augers and sink augers may share similar names, but serve completely different functions. Since it is easy to get these wide array of plumbing tools confused, always clarify the details beforehand. Most plumbing tools come in different sizes and shapes, so you need to make the proper preparations beforehand to know which equipment you need.
Expertise: Finally, just because you have the right plumbing tools does not mean you automatically know how to use them. Without the right knowledge and technique, you could potentially damage your fittings. When in doubt, always check with a professional plumber for information and assistance. After all, the best plumbing tool is having enough savvy and flexibility to maximize the efficiency in your household.
