DIY plumbing projects aren’t always recommended because if one small thing goes wrong, your small problem could turn into a BIG one. However, there are some everyday plumbing issues that can be resolved at the hands of the homeowner. If you consider yourself a weekend plumber, then you should have these five plumbing tools in your toolbox.
- Basin Wrench – Anytime you see a picture of a plumber, you’ll see them holding a big red wrench — this is that bad boy. Any person looking to loosen or tighten the nuts on sink faucets will need this tool. This wrench is long, narrow and has an adjustable clamp, which makes it perfect for reaching the sink bolts towards the back of the cabinet.
- Adjustable Wrench – Many plumbing fixtures will have hexagonal-shaped nuts, therefore, you’re going to need the adjustable wrench quite often. You’ll be able to work on supply lines and compression fittings with ease thanks to this wrench’s firm jaw setting. A real handyman should have both the six- and ten-inch models.
- Plumber’s Tape – Thread seal tape, commonly referred to as PTFE tape, is the perfect tape for putting a stop to leaks between plumbing connections. Whether you have a leaky shower head or a water line connection that isn’t properly sealed, apply some of this tape to stop the leak. Plumber’s tape is not only reliable, but more importantly — it’s affordable.
- Hand Auger – When your shower or sink won’t drain, you most likely have a clog that needs to be removed. Before you call the plumber, see if you can remove this clog yourself with the help of a hand auger. Use the hand crank to extend the metal wire into the drain in hopes of breaking up the clog or pulling the blockage out.
- Plungers – The most obvious plumbing tool every homeowner should have in their home is a plunger. Every home should have a minimum of two plungers on hand. A flange plunger is needed to unclog toilets, while a cup plunger is needed to unclog shower and sink drains (use a hand auger if this fails).
You don’t have to be a plumbing expert, but you should have the basic tools and knowledge to tackle the smallest of plumbing problems. When a plumbing problem extends past your expertise, don’t just wing it — contact Tri-City Heating and Cooling. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call (203) 303-5700.