What kind of plumbing tools should you keep around the house to perform maintenance tasks?
If you’re a new homeowner, you may have yet to experience your first clogged toilet or drippy faucet. Rest assured that these experiences are in your future, and they can be easily solved if you have the right tools. Even if you’re not a new homeowner, you may need to update your tools to be prepared for the plumbing issues you may encounter. For any homeowner, here are five tools that you should definitely have in your toolbox to tackle plumbing issues large and small.
Tongue-And-Groove Pliers
These are a type of plier that features curves on the gripping end so that you can grab and hold most things, even in tight spaces. They also have a slip joint that can be adjusted so you can use them on items of various sizes.
Adjustable Wrench
This is a wrench where you can adjust how far the teeth open to fit pieces of various sizes. Most plumbing uses hexagonal bolts, nuts, fittings, and supply lines. With an adjustable wrench, you will be able to tighten or loosen all of them as needed, because it adjusts to accommodate the common sizes. Adjustable wrenches are usually available in 6 or 10 inch varieties; this refers to the length of the handle, and it is a good idea to have both on hand.
Plumbers Tape
Things that are threaded are prone to leaking, and most of the fittings in plumbing are threaded so that they can screw in or screw together. Plumbers tape gets wrapped around the threads before the nuts or fittings go on to fill the space between them and stop water from leaking. Plumbers tape is also a good emergency stop-gap for any minor leaks from fixtures or fittings. You can use it to temporarily stop the leak until you can call your plumbing professional.
Pipe Wrench
This is a wrench that is designed to grip the actual pipe instead of the fittings and nuts. This is like a super-sized version of the adjustable wrench. Having two of these will make it easier to get work done , especially if you need to grip one pipe while twisting another.
Flange And Cup Plungers
If you have a clog in your toilet or drain, the plunger should be your first tool of choice (not chemical drain cleaners). These are two different types of plungers that you should have on hand to deal with clogs. Flange plungers are recommended for clogged toilets. Cup plungers are used to unclog sink and shower drains.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!