The Ultimate Handbook on Must-Have Plumbing Tools for Homeowners

For homeowners, having a basic understanding of plumbing and the right tools to tackle small plumbing problems is crucial. It is highly recommended to rely on professional plumbers for major plumbing services. However, keeping a few essential tools can be beneficial in saving time and money when handling smaller issues.

At AG PLUMBING & HEATING, we empathize with the frustration homeowners experience when faced with plumbing problems. We have put together a list of essential plumbing tools that are necessary for homeowners to have in their toolbox. These tools will help you handle minor plumbing repairs and maintenance tasks effectively. Today, we will explore a selection of essential tools that can be incredibly useful in both unexpected plumbing emergencies and routine maintenance tasks.

Having a plunger is crucial for any homeowner as it is a necessary plumbing tool. This tool is highly effective in unclogging sinks, toilets, and tubs. Plungers come in two main types: the cup plunger and the flange plunger.

The cup plunger is a widely used type that is commonly employed for sinks and tubs. The design features a flat bottom and a wide, bell-shaped top that effectively seals around the drain. The flange plunger, commonly referred to as a toilet plunger, features an extra rubber flap at the base, which effectively fits into the toilet drain, ensuring a superior seal.

For optimal suction, it's important to cover the overflow hole with a damp cloth while using a plunger. It's important to note that when using the plunger, you should always push instead of pull. It's important to avoid pulling on the clog as it can cause it to break apart, leading to a larger mess.

A pipe wrench is a necessary tool for plumbing services and is available in different sizes. This tool is designed to securely hold and rotate pipes, fittings, and various cylindrical objects. When buying a pipe wrench, it's important to find one that has a strong serrated jaw. This will ensure that it can securely grip and turn pipes without any slipping.

When working with threaded pipes and fittings, the pipe wrench is a valuable tool for tightening or loosening them.

Remember to protect your pipes by placing a cloth or rubber pad over the teeth of the wrench. By following these steps, you can ensure that no scratching or damage occurs.

• Here's a helpful tip: To use a pipe wrench effectively, it's important to position the wrench at an angle that allows for pulling instead of pushing. Exerting force in the wrong way can lead to potential harm to the wrench and increase the risk of it slipping.
  

The adjustable wrench, also commonly referred to as a crescent wrench, is a highly versatile tool that offers the convenience of adjusting its size to accommodate various nuts and bolts. This tool is crucial for plumbing tasks that require adjusting hexagon-shaped fittings and nuts.

When buying an adjustable wrench, it's important to find one that has smooth jaws. This will help prevent any potential damage to the nuts and bolts you're working with. It is important to remember to always adjust the wrench to fit the size of the nut or bolt. Using a wrench that doesn't fit properly can strip the edges and potentially cause more damage.

Teflon tape, also referred to as plumber's tape, serves the purpose of creating a tight seal between pipe threads. It is a thin, white tape that is commonly used for this application. This tool is essential for every homeowner and is incredibly user-friendly.

Here's how to use Teflon tape:

1. Make sure to wrap the tape in a clockwise direction around the pipe threads, ensuring that you complete at least three full revolutions.
2. It is important to begin at the end of the thread and ensure full coverage without leaving any gaps.
3. Remove any extra tape.
4. Make sure to use your adjustable wrench to securely tighten the threaded fitting.

Using Teflon tape is crucial to prevent any potential leaks and ensure that pipe threads are tightly secured. Make sure to have a roll of it readily available for any unforeseen plumbing repairs.

Drain Snake

A drain snake, also referred to as a plumber's snake or auger, serves as a versatile tool utilized for the purpose of clearing clogs in drains. This product is specifically engineered to effectively penetrate pipes and disintegrate any obstructions, allowing for unimpeded water flow. There are two main categories of drain snakes: manual and motorized.

• Manual drain snakes are a popular choice for household plumbing. They are designed with a long, flexible cable that has a handle on one end and a spiral auger on the other.
• Motorized drain snakes, also referred to as electric or power drain snakes, are better suited for industrial or heavy-duty plumbing tasks. The device is equipped with an electric-powered motor that effectively rotates the auger, allowing it to easily clear even the most stubborn clogs.

When using a drain snake, it's important to take some precautions. Remember to wear gloves and keep a bucket and rag handy to clean up any debris that might be released.

In certain situations, even with the necessary plumbing tools, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a professional plumber. At AG PLUMBING & HEATING, our team of skilled plumbers is available to help with all your plumbing needs. We provide a wide range of plumbing and heating services to address all your needs, from fixing leaky faucets to complete repiping solutions.

Feel free to reach out to us at (505) 896-0137 for top-notch plumbing services, swamp cooler repairs, and repiping in Rio Rancho, NM, and the surrounding areas. Our company provides cost-effective and dependable plumbing maintenance services to guarantee the optimal functioning of your plumbing system at all times.