Many of the plumbing issues you face as a homeowner will need the expertise and experience of a professional plumber. There are, however, a few common scenarios that most homeowners can address themselves if they are armed with the right tools. The following plumbing tools are part of a well-stocked toolbox and can help you address some minor plumbing situations that could arise.

 

  1. Plunger
    Even if you are not the do-it-yourself type, every home needs to have at least one plunger. A plunger for each bathroom is an even better idea. Using a good plunger can help you address those minor clogs that tend to crop up in every household. Without a plunger, these minor inconveniences could mushroom into larger issues quickly. If possible, purchase a plunger that is flange shaped for your toilets. A bell-shaped plunger is ideal for other drains such as your tub, shower, and sink.
  2. Plumbing Snake
    A plumbing snake -- sometimes it's also called an auger --  is the ideal tool for breaking up and clearing clogs that are too stubborn for the plunger to clear. A plumbing snake is a simple tool that features a long and flexible cable that is able to bend to accommodate the twists of your home's pipes. At the end of this cable is a crank that helps you manipulate the auger inside the pipe.
  3. Teflon Tape
    For minor leaks, Teflon tape can be a good stop-gap measure. Flexible, thin and inexpensive, Teflon tape is an essential tool for keeping in your toolbox in case of a minor leak at your shower head, for example. You can also use it to prevent a leak from becoming worse while you wait for the plumber to arrive.
  4. Channel Locks
    Sometimes called tongue and groove pliers, channel locks are specialized tools whose usage extends beyond plumbing. Using channel locks will make tightening, loosening, gripping and holding fittings and nuts easier. You will also be less likely to break or strip a nut or fitting if you use channel locks. While you can find them in a variety of sizes, the most versatile for home use are the 10 inch and 12-inch versions.

 

Steve's Plumbing & Heating offers professional heating and plumbing services to the areas of Stevens Point, Wausau, Marshfield and Wisconsin Rapids. If you have plumbing issues that cannot be handled by what's in your toolbox, contact Steve's Plumbing.