Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
You never know when a plumbing problem will appear. A dripping faucet, a blockage in your drain or a toilet that keeps running could grow into more significant problems if you don’t deal with them right away. That’s why everyone who owns a home should keep some basic plumbing tools on hand. Fixing simple issues doesn’t require you to be a certified plumber. Proper tools and some knowledge can save you both time and cash, along with stress.
We’ll be looking at the key plumbing tools you should always have at your home in this blog post. They are easy to operate, less expensive and become essential when you need them most.
Plunger
A plunger is one of the most important tools you can have in plumbing. Using this method can clear any drains, sinks and toilets that are blocked. They generally exist in one of two forms:
- Cup Plunger – Can be used successfully in sinks, bathtubs and showers.
- The Flange Plunger is only meant for use on toilets.
Simply cover the hole with the plunger, push down with your hands and then lift to form the suction. Reapply it twice or more and the blockage should go away. It works like a charm, although it’s really easy to do.
Pipe Wrench
The pipe wrench is designed to grab and twist pipes made from metal. It is a solid tool, usually steel, plus you can modify it for any amount of certainty. You should have it on hand if you are adjusting the tension or release of your plumbing pipes or fittings.
Holding the pipe with one wrench, turn the fitting with another. As a result, the pipe will not bend or develop any breaks.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a lighter tool used for smaller plumbing jobs. It’s perfect for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts, especially on faucets or water supply lines. Look for a wrench with a comfortable grip and a wide jaw opening.
This tool is especially helpful when dealing with fixtures under the sink, where space is tight and you need flexibility.
Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
Plumber’s tape, also called Teflon tape, is a thin, white tape used to seal threaded pipe joints. It helps prevent leaks by creating a tighter seal. You wrap it around the threads of a pipe before screwing the fitting on.
Keep a roll of Teflon tape in your toolbox—it’s cheap, easy to use, and can prevent a lot of headaches.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is designed to reach nuts under sinks, especially behind the faucet where it’s hard to reach with other tools. The head pivots, allowing you to loosen or tighten nuts in tight spaces.
If you ever need to fix or replace a faucet, this tool is a must-have.
Plumber’s Putty
Plumber’s putty is a soft, moldable material used to seal joints and prevent leaks around faucets, sinks, and drains. It doesn’t harden like cement, so it remains flexible and can be removed if needed.
It’s ideal for sealing drain flanges or the base of faucets to stop water from seeping through.
Drain Snake (Hand Auger)
Sometimes a plunger isn’t enough to clear a clog. That’s when a drain snake, or hand auger, comes in handy. It’s a long, flexible metal cable that can reach deep into the drain to break up or pull out blockages.
To use it, insert the end into the drain, turn the handle, and push it forward until you feel resistance. Then twist and pull to remove the clog.
Toilet Auger
While a regular drain snake works for sinks and tubs, a toilet auger is specially designed for toilet clogs. It has a rubber sleeve to protect the porcelain and a curved design to reach deep into the toilet drain.
This tool is perfect for tougher clogs that a plunger can’t fix.
Pipe Cutter or Tubing Cutter
If you need to cut copper, plastic, or steel pipes, a pipe cutter will give you a clean, straight cut. Unlike a hacksaw, it leaves no rough edges, which makes rejoining the pipes much easier.
For small pipes, especially copper ones, a tubing cutter works best. Just clamp it onto the pipe, tighten the knob, and rotate until the pipe is cut.
Bucket and Old Towels
Plumbing work can get messy. You’ll need a bucket to catch water when you disconnect pipes or open drains. Old towels are helpful for drying up spills, wiping tools, or cleaning surfaces.
They’re not fancy tools, but they’ll save you from cleaning disasters.
Flashlight or Headlamp
Many plumbing areas, like under sinks or behind toilets, are poorly lit. A good flashlight or headlamp will help you see what you’re doing and avoid mistakes.
Choose a headlamp if you need both hands free while you work.
Allen Wrenches (Hex Keys)
These small L-shaped tools are used for certain faucet handles, shower fixtures, or garbage disposals. Many plumbing fixtures have hidden screws that require a hex key to tighten or loosen.
It’s a good idea to keep a full set with different sizes in your toolbox.
Screwdrivers (Flathead and Phillips)
Screwdrivers are basic tools for removing or installing fixtures, panels, and drain covers. You’ll need both flathead and Phillips-head screwdrivers to handle different types of screws.
They’re useful for many small jobs, like tightening loose handles or opening access panels.
Caulking Gun and Waterproof Caulk
After sealing a new sink or tub, you’ll need to apply waterproof caulk to prevent leaks and mold. A caulking gun helps apply the sealant evenly and smoothly.
It’s also useful for resealing cracked joints or worn-out areas in your bathroom or kitchen.
Water Pressure Gauge
If your water pressure is too low or too high, it can damage your plumbing. A water pressure gauge helps you check the pressure in your home.
It’s simple to use—just screw it onto an outdoor faucet and turn on the water. Ideal pressure is between 40 to 60 psi. If it’s too high, you might need a pressure-reducing valve.
Safety Gear
Don’t forget about safety. When working with plumbing tools or chemicals, it’s important to protect yourself. Keep these items handy:
- Gloves – To protect your hands from dirt, sharp edges, or chemicals.
- Safety goggles – To keep water or debris out of your eyes.
- Face mask – If you’re working with mold or dusty pipes.
Tips for Using Your Plumbing Tools
- Learn how they work: Watch videos or read guides before using unfamiliar tools.
- Don’t force anything: If something won’t budge, try a different method or tool.
- Know your limits: If the job is too big or complex, call a professional plumber.
When to Call the Experts
Even with all the right tools, some plumbing problems require professional help. If you have:
- Persistent water leaks
- Burst pipes
- Low water pressure
- Sewer odors
- Water damage on walls or floors
Then it’s time to call a licensed plumber. DIY is great for small fixes, but big issues need expert attention to avoid costly damage.
Conclusion: Be Ready, Not Sorry
Having the right plumbing tools at home gives you confidence. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain, these tools help you take care of small problems before they grow.
Remember, you don’t need to be a plumbing expert. Just being prepared makes a big difference. Start building your plumbing toolbox today, and you’ll thank yourself the next time something goes wrong.
Need Help? Call Lifetime Plumbing!
If you’re facing a plumbing problem that’s too big to handle alone—or if you just want it done right the first time—Lifetime Plumbing is here for you. Our licensed plumbers are fast, friendly, and ready to help with any issue, big or small.
Call us today or book an appointment online and experience the quality service that homeowners across the area trust.
