Handy Plumbing Tools and Equipment for Home Maintenance

Major plumbing repairs and installations should always be performed by a licensed plumber in Pittsburgh with professional training and experience. However, there are many minor issues such as small clogs and simple fixture replacements that can be performed by homeowners. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh, we enjoy helping our residential and commercial clients find ways to improve the safety and efficiency of their plumbing systems. We want to help you do the same for your home. Here is a list of basic tools that homeowners can have on hand to perform simple repairs and routine plumbing maintenance.

Safety Gear

Its always important to put safety first when working with pipes and plumbing fixtures. Make sure you have a few important protective items on hand including goggles, heavy duty gloves, and heat shields for soldering if necessary.

Wrenches

There are several different kinds of wrenches that are used for a wide range of plumbing needs. Its a good idea to have one of each in your tool box. A pipe wrench is a large tool that is used to loosen and tighten nuts or fittings onto pipes. A basin wrench, which is shaped like a T, is used to install, repair or replace faucets. An adjustable wrench can also help loosen or tighten hexagonal nuts used for pipes.

Plungers

Though this might be one of the most basic plumbing tools, its certainly one of the most important. Plungers are the fastest and least invasive way to remove clogs. While they might not work for every blockage, they are very effective in many situations. Be sure to have both varieties of plungers available, a flat plunger for your sinks and bathtubs, and a bell shaped one for toilet bowls.

Hand Auger

A hand auger, also known as a snake is also helpful for clogs that form further into your pipes. Using a hand turned crank, the auger can penetrate inside the plumbing system and remove hair, toilet paper and other large items so your water can flow freely again. While machine snakes are a popular option, they shouldnt be used by individuals without expert training, because they can be destructive to pipes when used incorrectly.

Hacksaw

Hacksaws are very handy when you need to cut through pipes, screws, bolts, nuts or other items. Be cautious when using a hand saw, and always wear protective gloves to avoid personal injury.

Pipe and Tube Cutters

Tube and pipe cutters make slicing through any pipe or tubing quick, safe and easy. Purchase ones that are designed to be used on the materials that are used in your plumbing system. An adjustable cutter is ideal, but for certain tasks you may need to invest in a cutter that fits a specific diameter.

Plumbers Tape

Plumbers tape, or thread sealing tape, can be used to protect fittings and joint connections in your plumbing system. They are designed to help prevent leaks. Be sure to have a few rolls of this somewhere in your plumbing tool kit.

Pliers

Pliers are one of the most versatile tools for any homeowner to have. They are helpful for a wide range of home improvement projects. For plumbing tasks, they make manipulating bolts and nuts easier in tight spaces where bulky wrenches arent practical.

Do You Need Help from a Certified Plumber? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh

Are you struggling with a plumbing problem in Pittsburgh, Irwin, Cranberry, Uniontown, Canonsburg, Aliquippa, Beaver Falls, Penn Hills, New Kensington, Washington, Ross Township, South Hills, Greensburg, McKeesport, Dormont, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania or another metro area neighborhood? Then contact our office today and schedule a convenient appointment with a certified, licensed and insured plumber near you.

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