Every homeowner should make sure to keep a few essential plumbing tools on hand in case something goes wrong. Below are five plumbing tools you’ll want to make sure to have.

  • Wrenches: Wrenches are essential because they help you adjust a pipe’s fitting. Some of the best to use for plumbing purposes are a basin wrench, pipe wrench, and adjustable wrench. Having two wrenches, regardless of their type, is ideal because you can use one to grip the pipe and the other to twist a fitting.
  • Plungers: Plungers create suction which helps to release clogs in the pipes. While many think plungers are only used for toilets, they can also be used in sinks and showers to release blockages.
    One of the most common types is a flat plunger. This features a simple rubber cap at the end connected to a handle. There’s also an accordion plunger that has ridges to help produce extra pressure in the pipe. Unlike flat plungers, the accordion plunger is constructed out of plastic.
  • Drain Augers: Also known as a sewer snake, this tool features a long metal wire attached to an auger. The wire is flexible so as it’s being pushed through the drain it will be able to reach all areas in it. This can help break up any blockages inside the pipe, especially if it tends to get clogged easily. It can also be used to destroy grease and starch that might be coating the drain.
  • Pliers: Pliers help you with gripping pipes, removing fittings, or tightening bolts. Two of the best for plumbing are tongue-and-groove pliers and slip-joint pliers. Tongue-and-groove pliers have adjustable jaws that can be locked in place. Slip-joint pliers have a unique slot in the middle of them that can be slid up and down a pipe so it properly adjusts to its width.
  • Plumber’s Tape: This thin waterproof tape helps to keep pipes and fittings connected together to prevent leaks. In addition to this, the tape will slightly lubricate the area it’s wrapped around which can help with removing joints in the future.

These are a handful of plumbing tools you’ll want to make sure to have in your home. However, if you’re concerned that you might have a problem that needs professional assistance be sure to give Redwood Sewer & Drain a call in Santa Rosa. We’ll send a team out to inspect the issue and get to work quickly fixing it.