As a homeowner, you have to be ready to deal with plumbing issues that may arise. Whether it’s a weird pipe sound, a leak, or a clogged toilet, having the right tools on hand can save you time before a plumber in West Palm Beach arrives and does their magic. Find out which plumbing tools you should have in your toolbox and when to call a professional for plumbing issues.
Plumbing Tools You Need to Have at Home
Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is an adjustable tool for turning pipes and fittings. They come in various sizes, but the most commonly used ones are 10-inch and 14-inch. Pipe wrenches are used to grip and turn threaded pipes and fittings during installation and repair, preventing water from leaking.
Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a tool with a long handle with a swiveling jaw that can grip nuts and bolts from different angles. Homeowners and plumbers use them to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts in tight spaces, such as under sinks. Basin wrenches are also used to install and remove faucets.
Plunger
If your toilet or drains seem clogged, plungers are the perfect tool to handle the problem. There are two types of plungers: cup plungers and flange plungers. Cup plungers are used for sinks, showers, and bathtubs, while flange plungers are best suited for toilets. To use a plunger, place the cup or flange over the drain or toilet, and push down and pull up repeatedly to create suction and clear the clog.
Pipe Cutter
As the name suggests, pipe cutters are used to resize pipes during installation and repair. There are two types of pipe cutters: ratcheting and scissors. Ratcheting pipe cutters are for cutting thicker pipes, while using scissor pipe cutters will do when dealing with thinner ones. The ability to cut pipes to size ensures that they fit correctly and function properly, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of your plumbing system.
To use a pipe cutter, place the cutting wheel around the pipe, tighten the cutter, and rotate it around until it cuts through.
Teflon Tape
Teflon tape is a thin, white tape made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When you see a leak in a pipe thread or want to prevent this problem, you can wrap Teflon tape around the threads of pipes and fittings before they’re screwed together.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a type of wrench with a movable jaw that you can adjust to fit various nuts and bolts. The most commonly used ones are 6-inch and 10-inch, but depending on your pipes, you can get different sizes.
Adjustable wrenches tighten or loosen nuts and bolts on pipes and fittings.
When to Call a Professional
Major Leaks
An unattended leak can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural problems. Delaying repairs or trying to solve this with your plumbing tools will likely worsen the situation, leading to more expensive repairs and potentially risking your health.
Sewer Line Issues
Sewer line issues, such as slow drains or foul odors, are complex and require specialized equipment. Tree root intrusion, blockages, or damaged pipes can cause these problems. These issues can lead to sewage backups and pose health hazards if not resolved promptly.
Professional plumbers have the specialized equipment and training to diagnose and repair sewer line issues.
Water Heater Issues
Water heaters are typically powered by electricity or gas and can be dangerous to work on without the proper training and equipment. Gas water heaters, in particular, can pose a risk of gas leaks, which can lead to fires or explosions. Improperly working on a water heater can also cause leaks, electrical shocks, or other hazards that could put your safety at risk.
Looking for a Plumber in West Palm Beach?
Having these essential plumbing tools in your toolbox will prepare you for many common plumbing issues that may arise in your home. However, if you’re not comfortable performing plumbing repairs yourself, it’s always best to call a professional plumber. Legacy Plumbing Experts Experts are always here to help, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment or contact us for expert plumbing services.
