Whether you are a first-time buyer, property owner or just looking to up your maintenance game around the house, knowing how to fix a number of common plumbing problems can save you time as well as money. This starts with the right tools. Continue reading to find out which must-have plumbing tools you should add to your toolbox today.

 A plunger

Every homeowner should own at least one plunger. Regardless of whether you live in a studio apartment, mobile home, or villa, if you own a toilet, you should own a plunger. Plunging is one of the easiest household repair methods to master and can clear stubborn blockages in a matter of minutes. By forcing air into the drain, it triggers an increase in pressure and pushes the blockage further down the pipe. As the plunger is pulled away, it creates a vacuum to force debris up and out of the pipe and unclog the drain. Ensuring you have a plunger on hand at all times can prevent a minor blockage from turning into a major problem. If the problem persists, drain cleaners can shift a number of common drain blockers. To find out more, check out TubShroom’s guide to drain cleaners.

A wrench

A wrench can be useful for a wide range of plumbing problems. There are three main types to choose from. A basin wrench is equipped with a long handle to access those awkward hard-to-reach spots under your sink. A pipe wrench should be a fundamental tool in any homeowner’s toolbox. It can seamlessly lock onto pipe fittings and turn them to ensure they are tight and secure for assembly or loosened for disassembly. An adjustable wrench, on the other hand, can be used for much more than just plumbing. It can latch onto any nut or bolt and tighten it to a suitable degree. Most complete toolboxes include a variety of sizes so you can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Pliers

Pliers are an essential tool for tradesmen and DIY enthusiasts alike. There are several types of pliers available for the everyday homeowner. Each one serves a different plumbing problem. They are mainly used for gripping but can loosen or tighten bolts, hold objects for stabilization, and remove pins and fasteners. Needle nose pliers, for example, are great for smaller fixtures and fittings. They are also great for unclogging hair from shower drains and sinks without the need for a hand auger. Fencing pliers, on the other hand, are designed to cut and pull heavy-duty staples and for hammering. Lastly, combination pliers are an ideal choice for homeowners. They combine a series of features from other pliers in one handy tool. This includes the ability to cut, crimp, strip, pull, and twist. As a result, they can remedy a number of common plumbing problems with ease.

A drain snake

A drain snake, or a drain auger, is an extremely useful yet surprisingly unpopular plumbing tool. They get to work by reaching deep into pipes and removing stubborn blockages. They tend to be more effective than plungers but can take time to learn how to use and manage. They can allow you to fix a number of common plumbing problems yourself without the need for professional help and are extremely flexible. As a result, they can be forced through small or complex piping to get to the root of the problem. Drain snakes are a great solution to a wide range of plumbing problems associated with both toilets and bathtubs. However, they are relatively expensive and can be misused without the right training and maintenance. A high-end drain snake can be a solid investment for homeowners looking to improve their DIY skills in the long run.

A leak detection tool

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems. Most homeowners are forced to contend with a leak at one point or another. By knowing what tools to call upon and how to fix the problem yourself, you can save a considerable amount of time as well as money. One of the first steps involved in fixing a leaky pipe is to detect the source of the leak. If you are unable to do so, a professional plumber should be able to get to the root of the problem in a fraction of the time. Most plumbers rely on a leak detection tool to get the job done. It works by sending an alert to the user as soon as a leak is detected. They can then get to work sourcing a solution to the problem at hand. Serious leaks with the potential to damage your home or a neighboring property may require immediate action. By owning a leak detection tool and knowing how to use it in the event of an emergency, you can fix a leaky pipe or at least slow down the rate of deterioration.

Sealant

There are several different types of sealants available to suit a wide range of uses and applications. Water-based latex sealant is the most popular amongst homeowners as it is relatively quick and easy to learn how to use. It also adheres to most surfaces and can be mixed with paint to create a desired look. Acrylic sealant is suited to exterior applications as, unlike water-based latex, it is not prone to shrinkage. Silicone sealant benefits from greater thermal resistance and has solid movement capability and adhesion. The type of sealant you choose depends on a number of factors such as the severity of the problem at hand, your DIY skills and expertise, and your budgetary requirements. Having at least one type of sealant in your toolbox at any one time can prevent you from shelling out for a professional plumber. It is worth noting, however, that whilst sealants are relatively simple to use, poor design and installation can produce a slapdash result. Regular maintenance and upkeep can preserve your sealant for years to come.

A metal file

A metal file is a useful addition to any toolbox. They can be used to file piping that has left a jagged edge after it has been cut. They can also be used to sand down plastic that is jutting out. By taking the time to smooth the edges, you can produce a cleaner finish and prevent injury. Metal files come in a wide range of sizes to suit a wide range of plumbing jobs. A single-cut metal file is equipped with a single row of parallel, diagonal rows of teeth. It is the most common type of metal file and is used by homeowners to smooth rough edges found within the home. A double-cut metal file, on the other hand, has two sets of diagonal teeth. It can be applied with greater pressure than a single-set file to remove rough material at a much quicker pace. By using a variety of strokes and movements, a metal file can transform a section of piping from rough and sharp to flat and smooth in a matter of minutes. 

There are a number of tools every homeowner should have in their toolbox. By ensuring you have access to these must-have tools, you can relax knowing you are equipped and prepared to handle any minor or major plumbing problem that comes your way.