52 indispensable tools of a plumber

Plumbing maintenance is one of the most important tasks when it comes to home maintenance. Plumbers are essential to maintaining the functionality of our homes, doing everything from installing new fixtures to repairing leaks. However, every competent plumber has a set of essential tools that enable them to do their work. This article delves into the realm of plumbing tools, showcasing 52 essential instruments that every plumber should possess.

The trade of plumbing demands accuracy, knowledge, and, of course, the appropriate equipment for the task. Whether the task at hand involves a straightforward fix or a sophisticated installation, having the right tools can make all the difference in completing it quickly and correctly. Every plumber’s toolkit, which includes everything from pipe cutters to wrenches, enables them to confidently take on a variety of jobs.

The pipe wrench is among the most essential tools in any plumber’s toolbox. These robust wrenches, available in multiple sizes, are made especially for holding and rotating pipes and fittings. Pipe wrenches give plumbers the leverage they need to securely tighten or loosen connections thanks to their strong teeth and adjustable jaws.

Pipe cutters are another essential tool for plumbers. Pipe cutters are used, as the name implies, to precisely cut pipes to the desired length. When cutting steel, PVC, or copper pipes, a high-quality pipe cutter guarantees precise, clean cuts each and every time, lowering the possibility of leaks and guaranteeing a polished appearance.

However, plumbing involves more than just fixtures and pipes. In order to properly diagnose and fix problems, plumbers also need to use a variety of specialized tools. Plumbing professionals can quickly identify issues and implement solutions with the least amount of disruption to the home thanks to these tools, which range from drain snakes to leak detection devices.

Adjustable Wrench	A wrench with an adjustable jaw size, used for turning nuts and bolts.
Pipe Wrench	A heavy-duty wrench with serrated teeth for gripping and turning pipes and fittings.
Plunger	A tool used to clear clogs from drains and toilets by creating suction.
Pipe Cutter	A tool designed to cut through pipes cleanly and efficiently.
Torch	For soldering pipes and fittings together.
Plumber"s Tape	A flexible tape used to seal pipe threads, preventing leaks.
Plumber"s Putty	A sealing compound used to create watertight seals around drains and fixtures.
Hacksaw	For cutting through metal pipes and fittings.
Drain Snake	A flexible auger used to remove clogs from drains.
Level	To ensure pipes and fixtures are properly aligned.
Channel Locks	For gripping and turning large nuts and bolts.
Measuring Tape	To measure pipes, fittings, and spaces accurately.
Pipe Reamer	For removing burrs and sharp edges from pipe ends.
Teflon Tape	For creating a tight seal between threaded pipe joints.
Plumber"s Snake	A longer, more heavy-duty version of a drain snake for tougher clogs.
Thread Sealant	A liquid compound applied to pipe threads to prevent leaks.
Basin Wrench	For reaching and tightening nuts and bolts in tight spaces under sinks and faucets.
Pipe Bender	For bending pipes to fit specific angles and shapes.
Compression Sleeve Puller	For removing compression sleeves from copper pipes.
Screwdrivers	For various tasks like removing screws from fixtures.
Wire Brush	For cleaning pipe ends and fittings before soldering.
Propane Torch	An alternative to traditional torches for soldering.
Hand Auger	For clearing clogs from drains by manually turning the auger.
Thread Chaser	For cleaning and restoring damaged threads on pipes.
Flux	A chemical used to clean and prepare metal surfaces for soldering.
Pipe Deburring Tool	For removing burrs from the inside and outside of pipes.
Pipe Inspection Camera	For inspecting the interior of pipes to locate clogs or damage.
Test Gauge	For testing water pressure and flow.
Adjustable Pliers	For gripping and turning objects of various sizes.
Tap and Die Set	For cutting new threads or repairing damaged ones on pipes and fittings.
Caulking Gun	For applying caulk around fixtures and joints to prevent leaks.
Pipe Clamps	For holding pipes and fittings in place during assembly.
Pipe Joint Compound	For sealing threaded pipe joints.
Water Meter Key	For turning water meters on and off.
Pressure Test Pump	For pressurizing pipes to check for leaks.
Pressure Gauge	To measure the pressure of liquids and gases in pipes.
Power Snake	For clearing tough clogs from drains using motorized auger.
Plumber"s Grease	For lubricating valves, faucets, and other plumbing components.
Flaring Tool	For creating flare fittings on copper pipes.
Pipe Locator	For locating pipes behind walls or underground.
Thread Tape Dispenser	For easily applying thread sealant tape to pipe threads.
Utility Knife	For cutting various materials during plumbing tasks.
Adjustable Pipe Support	For holding pipes in place during installation.
Safety Goggles	To protect eyes from debris and chemicals.
Work Gloves	For protecting hands during plumbing work.
Ear Plugs	For reducing exposure to loud noises from power tools.

Gas wrenches

A gas wrench is the very first instrument that a plumber uses. a gas wrench. It resembles a surgeon’s scalpel. When traveling to the location, you can forget your head, but it will be disastrous if you forget your gas key.

I’ve worked with a variety of gas wrenches over the years. They did, however, have one definite advantage. They were all produced in Europe. Yes, the cost is high. But it’s worth it, I promise.

A samurai’s soul is said to reside in his sword. I like to think that the gas wrench contains the soul of the plumber.

I’ve been a plumber for eighteen years, so I’ve seen practically several wrench generations. And I deduced the main ideas from the layout. The jaws of gas wrenches used to be straight.

It"s a good wrench, no doubt about it. But this wrench has a very big disadvantage. It is that the jaws are very short, which does not allow you to clamp the fitting firmly. Also straight jaws on gas wrenches are good for unscrewing rusty or tightly screwed fittings, as the clamping of such a wrench is maximum. But this wrench is not suitable for screwing or unscrewing a large number of fittings, because the straight jaws do not allow you to quickly intercept the wrench to carry out the operation of unscrewing or screwing. This is clearly evident with wrenches number 1-2-3. But with the big ones, you can get used to it.

This particular wrench is also a great example of this series of wrenches.

Due to the fact that this wrench lacks any connected levers. letting this wrench gnaw away at the components like a bull terrier does to a foe. For welders, this wrench comes in quite handy. Select a handle made of aluminum alloy. Then it’s both strong and light.

Not many in the Soviet Union gave the tool’s convenience any thought. For this reason, they produced the angular wrenches seen in the first image. And plumbers tortured and anguished their clients. Yes, they still do as well.

They have turned away in the west. Nature taught Western tool designers a lot. Advertising posters featuring gas wrenches with a background featuring a crab claw are what I recall. The cormorant wrench gets its name from the avian species of the same name.

Elegant wrenches. They prevent fitting edges from being torn off, clamp firmly in three places, and very conveniently let you to intercept the wrench. As a result, the mundane task of fastening and unfastening fixtures has quickly evolved into a true art.

There are four sizes of these gas wrenches according to number: 1, 2, 3, 4. This relates to the largest fitting size that this wrench is capable of grasping. Thus, a 1 inch fitting will fit a number one wrench, and so forth.

I advise professionals to obtain at least number 2. Using a second wrench in the home is also more practical.

Let’s now discuss the smaller brother of the gas wrench. We refer to them as gas wrenches.

This type of gas wrench is a very useful tool. It’s small, useful in confined spaces, and has a two-inch adjustment range. I purchased the gas wrench in the picture in 2008. It still functions even though it is a little worn and the teeth are missing. I use a file to periodically sharpen its teeth, but that’s all.

These keys are very common these days, especially the ones with plastic handles. A wrench like that is inconvenient in small spaces. And in our line of work, there are many locations just like this. A version with thin rubberized handles is available. They’re a breeze to deal with.

We once worked on installing engineering systems on a particular object, and the client participated and showed interest. And he begged me to assist him with all the small tasks. Ninety percent of the time, my colleagues and I carried the gas wrench with us.

And at one point, the client simply lost it and began screaming, asking, "What are you doing everywhere with that gas wrench? "It’s true that this wrench is very versatile," we tell him. And take off the nuts, grasp, and use pipes and additional materials. Once you can hold the size in one hand, you’re good to go.

However, it’s clear that the client is still irate. Then we hand him this gas wrench and advise him to give it a go. He was shocked to find that this tiny wrench is incredibly durable and adaptable.

Someone will yell, "Why are you climbing everywhere with this gas wrench?!," if any of my coworkers were to pick up a gas wrench after this incident. Everyone is chuckling, which lightens the mood of our otherwise serious work.

A contemporary wrench from this series is also present. I refer to it as Predator.

The advertisement claimed that this wrench was fashioned like the mouth of a dinosaur. the initial Quatro sequence. That indicates four purposes. The new-style jaws are the first, the sliding portion slides up to two inches, the push-button lock is the third, and the thin, rubberized handles are the fourth.

When I first saw this wrench, I was really afraid of it. Since you could rip the fittings off with one more motion. But the wrench’s strength is also restricted due to the push-button lock. Attempting to remove the plug from a cast iron radiator, I managed to break the lock on the first wrench.

Additionally, because the wrench opens to a larger size with a click on the lock, it is inconvenient in confined spaces.

If not, a sophisticated wrench. It can take the place of the number 2 gas wrench when used properly. Right now, I don’t have any gas wrenches in my inventory. Only Predators exist. It’s sufficient for daily duties. Additionally, I just ask my coworkers for larger wrenches if I need a larger one.

Divorcing wrench

When it is small, this wrench is not very strong. But that’s a different story when he gets older. When using this wrench, screw and unscrew in the direction of the screws. My wrench has an arrow on it. The adjustable wrench is primarily required to screw in faucets and other fixtures that have paint or chrome coatings on them so as to prevent these layers from pealing off.

An abundance of anecdotes surround the adjustable wrench. I believe this is because, in comparison to other wrenches, it is incredibly handy because it only has one handle and little moving parts. Its weight and length are ideal.

Universal screwdriver

The next most crucial tool, in my opinion, is a shaped key, or universal screwdriver, in my case.

Selecting the right screwdrivers is important because, for example, thousands of screws may need to be inserted during the installation of a heated floor. However, since things are easier these days, a lot of people use inexpensive screwdrivers and discard them after each object.

I turned around. I purchased a universal screwdriver for $25. This specific model lets you tackle nearly every type of plumbing task and comes with three shaped and three flat screwdrivers. Working with it for wall-mounted gas boiler repair and preventive maintenance is very convenient.

I have this screwdriver for two years. Any screwdriver can be removed from it at any time and clamped into a punch chuck or drill. The screwdrivers measure approximately 120 mm in length when the case is removed.

Metal hacksaw

I employ two kinds. First, a standard hacksaw up to twenty inches in length. Cutting metal pipes and other components is done with this hacksaw. I also saw sewer pipes and plastic parts. I use blades with fine teeth for metal and occasionally coarse teeth for plastic and wood.

The second saw is not very big.

For operating in confined spaces. One time, my coworkers and I had a competition where we had to use a large and a small hacksaw to cut steel pipes. We discovered at the competition that a small hacksaw can cut through a steel fifteen pipe more quickly than a large one.

Installers of heat and water meters find a small hacksaw to be quite helpful. And frequently cuts precisely tiny-diameter pipes. After cutting the thread and sawing off the pipe in a difficult-to-reach area, screw the faucet on.

Knife

A knife is the plumber’s next tool. I use four different kinds of knives in my line of work:

A standard kitchen knife in a sheath was the first one. Using a knife like this to cut bread, polystyrene, and polyethylene sheets is convenient for lunch.

The second knife is commonly referred to as a "slash" and is constructed with a hacksaw blade. The primary user of this knife is a cobbler. In this instance, the knife works well for cleaning paint off steel pipes and breaking up wood blocks.

The third wallpaper cutter. Cutting paper, polyethylene, and gaskets with this knife is easy. A knife is also required in order to sharpen construction pencils. It’s useful to have models with blade position locks.

And the fourth electrician-specific multipurpose knife. However, as it turned out, plumbers can’t live without this knife. On the job, wires and cables are something that plumbers must deal with. With just one motion, you can cut insulation with this knife. Simple to clean internal threads and remove wires from.

In addition, I use an indicator screwdriver and specialized tools for biting off and cleaning cables and wires when working on the electrical portion of appliances and boilers.

It is also advised that you carry a long-stinger screwdriver that is flat and shaped. These type of screwdrivers are essential for pipe clamp installation in shafts and other difficult-to-reach locations as well as boiler repairs. It is feasible to cover the stinger with an insulating sleeve when using electrical appliances.

I also suggest packing side cutters and pliers in your luggage for handling wires and holding parts.

Pliers are a versatile instrument. However, when installing underfloor heating, I frequently use cutters to bite off the loose ends of plastic clamps.

Measuring instruments

A folding wooden ruler is a plumber’s essential tool. It’s a really useful tool. A ruler can measure long distances by itself and is safer than a tape measure. There is a scale on the ruler to measure angles.

I utilize a pencil and a marker for direct marking. Use a scribe to mark out metal components. I use a coring stone to mark where I want to drill holes.

Level and plumb line

The plumb line should be fairly obvious. The only requirement is that the plumb bob’s harness hole be drilled uniformly. Plumb bobs with triangles were used even in ancient Egypt as opposed to simple, sharp plumb bobs. That is the method for measuring the horizon and vertical.

Now get down to earth. The level should inspire the same level of confidence as a watch. Otherwise, we lose trust and experience ongoing anxiety if the clock begins to lie. Similarly, with a level. Thus, consider the level of well-known producers and brands. We must acknowledge that investing in a high-quality tool saves money—that is, our time. We protect our health, our nerves, etc.

Additionally, I’ve noticed that a lot of people don’t bring high-quality tools because they worry about them being stolen on the spot. For my part, I don’t feel scared because I’ve made rules that make the tool easier to use over time.

3 rules for handling tools on site

The first guideline states that you should only give the tool to reliable colleagues. I say that to the panhandlers. I purchased A costly instrument that should not be given away freely. If you have to, go out and purchase one.

The second guideline states that you should never, ever leave the tool on the website. Frequently, artisans overlook the necessity of gathering the tool, loading it into a vehicle, and dropping it off at the location. Next, they lament that the instruments were pilfered.

The third rule is to handle the tool carefully and perform ongoing preventive maintenance on it. because performing routine maintenance and inspections is less expensive than purchasing new equipment. Despite this, I frequently observe that many artisans do not bother to purchase pricey tools. They use inexpensive instruments on every item, ranging from screwdrivers to perforators. and discard them once the project is complete. This method will cost twice as much as purchasing a high-quality tool all at once, according to calculations.

That gets a little off topic, let’s get to the hammer.

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Hammer

One more crucial instrument for a plumber. I went with a plastic-handled hammer instead of a wooden one since the wooden handle dries out and the iron portion of the hammer can come loose and cut someone badly. It is also important to keep in mind that safety glasses are required when using a hammer.

I was taken aback to discover, after years of use, that the imported hammer has a goggles-compatible pictogram. On any other hammer, I have not observed this. That is the distinction in regard to worker safety.

Chisel

Everyone ought to have a chisel. Additionally, they have a plastic cover for protection. To cut items out of metal sheets, a chisel is required. They use a chisel to remove nuts, unscrew fittings with broken threads, and other objects.

Additionally, fittings, threads, and pipes must be filed or cleaned during the work to remove paint, rust, and irregularities. For this, numerous files are used.

I utilize it in my triangular, flat work file. First size.

Spatula

Considering that plumbers frequently have to caulk gutters by hand, I suggest investing in a small trowel. When purchasing, consider the metal trowel’s elasticity and thickness. If not, the trowel will either bend very little or not at all. There will be workplace inconvenience in both scenarios. By the way, it’s the golden mean in our case.

It should be recognized that the plumber shouldn’t be specialized when using the tool. It’s common to observe plumbers split into two or even three factions. Certain people handle boilers, heating, and water and sewer systems.

Given how interconnected these systems are, I believe this to be incorrect. In order to prevent the water system from freezing, you need heating. You need a water system, etc., in order to fill the heating system.

Customers are the ones who suffer most from this plumber division. Clients must deal with two or three crews. Nobody is ultimately at fault because everyone vanishes first. Thus, keep this in mind when hiring crews and carefully consider the allocation of responsibilities.

It’s no problem for my close colleagues and I to divide the work. When people asked what he did, my father’s response was always the same: car, motorcycle, bicycle, photography, e-la, rowing and hunting, TV and radio mechanic!

Of course this is a joke, but there’s always a grain of truth to a joke. I now bring up the point that a plumber typically offers a wide range of services. Generally speaking, the plumber is in front of all wet systems.

Tools for installing underfloor heating

Among those systems is underfloor heating. You will require a plastic pipe working tool in order to install a water floor heating system. Specifically: springs, a press machine, a pipe reamer, plastic pipe cutters, and of course, a bolt cutter.

To cut reinforcing mesh mac, a bolt cutter is required. The floor heating pipes are mounted on mesh. used to strengthen the warm floor’s finishing screed as well. I went with a medium size that had a wire bite as big as 6 mm.

Plasterboard walls frequently require systems to be installed during construction. Metal shears must be purchased for this purpose. I purchased contemporary scissors because they make working with profiles easier. Of course, there are the classic Soviet straight scissors. However, using these scissors to work with sheet metal is convenient.

Many will ask, "Why is plasterboard necessary for our work at all?" I respond that you will receive unevenly fixed water outlets if you do not fix the water and sewerage or do not oversee that the plasterboard masters did it. The water connections for a shower or bathtub faucet are particularly tragic. In this instance, a faucet cannot be installed. It will be necessary for you to smash the tiles, remove the plaster, and still line everything up with the planes and levels.

Why create such issues when it can be resolved right away and result in both literal and metaphorical rest? After all, cutting a piece of profile and screwing a bar into it are not particularly difficult tasks. Fasten this assembly to the drywall wall rails using screws, and insert the water spigots to the desired depth.

Finally, we have reached the second department of the plumber’s suitcase.

This section typically contains a large number of small item compartments. For screws, plastic dowels of various models with a 6 mm diameter are required. Screws can have lengths of 4.5 mm and thicknesses of 4.9 mm. I like the dowels made by Hilti, Fisher, and other companies.

Additionally, screws for metal and wood come in a variety of thicknesses and lengths. Mixer nets, car clamps for gas and water hoses, washers and nuts dm 6, 8, 10 mm, gaskets in various sizes, multiple horn wrenches sized 8-10, 12-13, 9-11, and 17 mm, and a socket wrench measuring 7 mm for changing gas boiler nozzles are all required.

My first degree was as an assistant to a diesel locomotive driver, so I have a strong understanding of electricity and power grids. networks. I use an indicator screwdriver, pliers, a wire-stripping tool, and a tester, of course, to work with them.

Tester and metal detector

You can check cables for continuity, measure voltage, and do a lot more tasks with a tester.

And in the picture, there’s a metal detector next to it. I can locate electrical, metal, and plaster wires beneath tiles, plaster, and other surfaces with its assistance.

Sealant gun

In our line of work, a silicone and other sealant gun plays a crucial role.

Without silicone, I don’t know what people would do today. Everywhere, it is used. Additionally, smear on linen while winding, and use selikonivaniyu faience to adhere various materials together, among other uses.

As a result, you require a dependable firearm with a fluid stroke. If not, it takes a long time to level out or scrub away excess silicone when working with earthenware.

Extension

Let’s now discuss an electric extension cord, or more simply put, carry.

I advise taking Turkish with a minimum length of 50 meters and a cross-section of 1.5 mm square. I advise unwinding the extension cord two to three meters longer than what is required when working. due to the fact that you must move while traveling. You can move around in this manner without having to unplug the electrical appliances that are attached to the extension cord.

You must fully unwind the extension cord before connecting it to a less powerful welding source. If not, the extension cord will function like a coil and eventually burn out from heat exhaustion.

A five kW load can be freely supported by such an extension cord. I do not advise going over it.

Perforator

Now is the time to discuss perforators. I use a second-generation, 800W Bosch hammer drill. I took a set of drills with sizes 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 mm with it. A flat spade and a sharp spade are both present. Additionally, there is a set of metal drills and a container with lithol that is required to lubricate the drill shank when it is placed into the perforator’s chuck. I see completely dry drill chucks all the time. It’s terrifying because the primary wear occurs precisely when the drilling mode with perforation is used.

Basically, a useful, affordable, and dependable tool. Our founder, a native of Germany, once caused us headaches with the perforators we were using. Our drills have been operational for two to four years, and based on what he said, his brigade’s drills date back to the 1990s.

The Germans are obviously very neat. As a result, we must continue to learn from them. Even so, we have drill models that range in age from 8 to 10 years old, provided they are used properly and prevented.

Even though I’ve seen a variety of drills at work, I still want to try the Hilti drills. They cost more, but they are also of higher quality, have a greater impact, and are red in color.

To ensure comfort and convenience, it is imperative that the plumbing system in your home is in excellent condition. To complete tasks quickly and effectively, plumbers use a variety of tools, from repairing leaks to installing new fixtures. We’ve covered 52 essential tools that every plumber needs to have in their toolbox in this article.

To begin with, a sturdy set of wrenches is necessary for both tightening and loosening different plumbing fittings. For easy task completion, adjustable wrenches, pipe wrenches, and basin wrenches are essential tools. These instruments offer the grip and leverage required to move pipes and fittings safely.

Hacksaws and tube cutters are essential tools for cutting pipes. For cutting precisely through materials like steel, hacksaws are useful, and tube cutters are ideal for cutting copper, brass, and plastic pipes. To ensure correct installation and repairs, these cutting tools guarantee precise and clean cuts.

Soldering and welding tools are essential for connecting pipes and fittings. To sweat copper pipes together and create tight, leak-proof joints, soldering iron and flux are required. Similar to this, joining metal pipes with welding requires a welding torch and the right rods.

Another crucial component of plumbing maintenance is leak detection, which is accomplished by plumbers using a variety of instruments. These tools, which range from basic items like moisture meters and dye tablets to more sophisticated machinery like thermal imaging cameras and acoustic leak detectors, assist plumbers in locating leaks that are concealed underground or behind walls.

Furthermore, specialized instruments like hydro-jetting apparatus, pipe inspection cameras, and drain snakes are necessary for unclogging obstructions and examining the inside of pipes. With the aid of these instruments, plumbers can precisely identify problems and offer workable fixes, guaranteeing the plumbing system operates at peak efficiency.

In summary, a plumber’s job description goes well beyond simple installation and maintenance to include upholding the integrity and functionality of a home’s plumbing system. Plumbers, who have the necessary equipment and knowledge, are essential in guaranteeing that homes can dispose of wastewater effectively and have access to clean water. Plumbers can maintain their high standard of service while maintaining the safety, comfort, and functionality of our homes by making quality tool investments and keeping up with industry advancements.

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