A busted toilet. A leaky faucet. A clogged kitchen sink. These are common plumbing problems almost every homeowner will experience at least once. While some matters require help from local Las Vegas plumbers — perhaps the shower not getting hot or the dishwasher flooding — you can likely handle many basic repairs on your own. All it takes is a little research, maybe some elbow grease, and the right tools. However, many homeowners don’t have the right tools to make simple repairs to their home plumbing system. Most of these tools are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased at any local hardware store.
Here are eight plumbing tools you should have tucked away somewhere in your home, just in case a plumbing problem arises:
1. Plunger
Stubborn clogs can happen in the bathroom at the worst times. With summer upon us, many people are starting to hold pool parties and weekend BBQ’s; with more usage of the bathroom, comes the higher possibility of a clogged toilet. Having a plunger on hand can help clear those obstructed pipes in no time. Also, don’t just get the average standard plunger; instead invest a few more dollars by purchasing a plunger with a gasket that fits inside your toilet(A.K.A. a Beehive Plunger)
This is the best type of plunger to use, as opposed to the most commonly used “standard plunger” because the gasket creates a better seal, which creates more suction to help dislodge obstructions within your toilet.
Also, if your sink becomes clogged due to throwing too much waste down your drain (or the occasional party guest who thinks it’s a good idea to dump coffee grounds into your garbage disposal) you can use a plunger as well to help unclog the sink. But it’s not the same type of plunger that is used for a toilet. They are similar in shape, and they do have a gasket like a beehive plunger, but they are smaller and are equipped specifically for sink and bathtub drains.
Side note: It should be common sense to consider two separate plungers for the sinks and toilets because, you know…
2. Toilet Auger
A Toilet Auger looks sort of like a common plumbing tool known as a Snake. An Auger easily unclogs a toilet by forcing the debris down the pipe into the sewer line. This tool is fairly cheap as well; however, most homeowners don’t have one, or have never even heard of the tool.
This handy tool usually succeeds when your plunger fails. A toilet auger is the ultimate plumbing tool for a large family living under one roof (especially those with teenagers!); but it also comes in very handy when hosting a party, and the toilet gets clogged.
Instead of making a possibly bigger mess by using a plunger, just pull out your auger, and within minutes your toilet should be good to go (no pun intended).
Now if you don’t know how to use a toilet auger, or need a quick refresher on how to use one, check out our DIY plumbing page, and watch our video on How To Properly Plunge & Unclog a Toilet.
3. Caulking Gun
A caulking gun — with a backup supply of caulking — is another must-have for any homeowner or DIYer. This little gadget is commonly used for home improvement projects, but you might also find yourself in need of it for quick fixes like sealing up the seams in your shower.
Using caulking helps prevent water from getting into places you don’t want it. Just be sure to apply it only to clean and dry surfaces.
4. Basin Wrench
Have you ever found yourself trying to do repairs under the sink and you’re having a difficult time getting the wrench in there? That’s where a basin wrench comes in handy.
Because of the way the wrench is designed, it will allow you to get into confined spaces and hard-to-reach areas — which most other wrenches won’t work for.
This type of wrench does come in different sizes, and has different adjustments; for the most part, they are pretty much all similar in design and in use.
5. Duct Tape
You might already have a roll or two somewhere in the house — but did you know you can use duct tape for plumbing repairs? It’s incredibly durable, sticky, and water-resistant, making it a must-needed tool for pesky plumbing issues.
6. Pipe Wrench
There are all kinds of wrenches, but the advantage of pipe wrenches is they work particularly well with rounded surfaces. They’re adjustable and can lock in place, and the teeth will gently dig into the pipe for maximum grip. This is one type of wrench every home plumber needs in their toolbox.
7. Plumber’s Putty
Want to prevent leaking around seals? You’re going to need plumber’s putty. It’s especially convenient around faucets and drains and helps stop leaks from joints that aren’t under pressure.
8. Needle Nose Pliers
If you’re dealing with plumbing repairs, you’re likely working with very small objects in very small spaces. You’ll be happy to have needle nose pliers on hand to get the job done – they’re nonnegotiable when it comes to plumbing tools.
While there are certain repairs you can handle on your own using simple tools–like the ones mentioned in this article– others are best left to the professionals.
If you need help, call the Las Vegas plumbers homeowners trust to deliver phenomenal service: Pure Plumbing. We offer 24 hour emergency plumbing services; even if it’s a holiday weekend, or late at night, we will help you keep your plumbing pure.
