You may consider yourself pretty handy around your home, able to tackle those regular little home maintenance projects that can be a real joy–or headache–to sort out. Nonetheless, whenever taking on a plumbing job, you need to be sure that you’re utilizing the proper plumbing tools. Some of these plumbing tools may just help you solve the problem temporarily until a plumber can come and take a look. Let’s take a look at some of the plumbing tools you should be familiar with before trying to tackle any plumbing issues yourself.
Plungers
Most homeowners own a plunger, but what a lot of people don’t realize is that you should actually have two plungers. Flange plungers are usually great for unclogging toilets, whereas cup plungers are better for sinks or shower drains.
Adjustable Wrench
Plumbing work involves all kinds of differently shaped pieces with fittings, supply lines, and hexagonal-shaped nuts that come in different shapes and sizes. Using an adjustable wrench gives you the versatility to tighten or loosen any of these varying pieces. If you’re serious about your plumbing tools, you should own both a 6- and 10-inch adjustable wrench.
Pipe Wrench
Similar to an adjustable wrench, a pipe wrench is much larger and used for tightening or loosening actual plumbing pipes. If you have two of these, you can use one to grip the pipe while using the other to tighten or loosen the fitting
Plumber’s Tape
Fittings on plumbing pipes are often threaded which can lead to leaks if damaged. If you notice any small leaks on your water lines, threaded pipe connections, or shower heads, your best bet is to apply some plumber’s tape and keep the leak from getting worse. That said, as soon as you apply the plumber’s tape, you should call your local plumber and set up an appointment.
Hand Auger
If a clog is too serious for your plunger, the hand auger may be the solution. It is used to feed a metal wire into your sink or drains, piercing the blockage and letting you break it up by pulling the wire back up. Hand augers aren’t meant for toilets, however, there are toilet augers as well.
Get in Touch With Mahon Plumbing
Mahon Plumbing has been serving the Baltimore region’s plumbing needs since 1994. We’re ready to offer quality plumbing services and gas installation for both commercial and residential uses. Our tracks and employees are ready to handle the toughest of jobs.
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