Turn-to-turn fittings that can control liquid flow can be found in various sizes and types, making it possible to start, stop, or regulate it as desired.
Press fitting systems assist plumbers in joining pipes securely while decreasing soldering time. Pipe benders allow plumbing professionals to change the shape of their piping for installation or repair purposes.
1. Tape Measure
A tape measure is an indispensable tool for accurately measuring spaces and objects. The end hook can be pressed against surfaces to take measurements; pressing down will lock its housing in place when pressing.
Tape measures include markings in both imperial and metric units, with unit breakdowns for accuracy. They also come equipped with a serrated scribing tool on the end of their blade hook which can serve as an alternate marker when no pencil is available.
2. Screwdrivers
Keep a multi-bit screwdriver on hand to tackle a variety of repairs and projects quickly. These tools feature hollow handles which hold multiple bits such as flathead, Phillips, Robertson Torx and Hex-head screwdriver bits for use on multiple repairs or projects.
Selecting and purchasing the appropriate screwdriver bit configuration and size are vitally important, to avoid an unfortunate “cam-out” effect due to using inappropriate bits in a toolbox. When keeping multiple types of bits handy in one’s toolkit it helps avoid this effect of misusing a single one and can save valuable time during projects.
3. Pliers
Pliers can perform many tasks, from gripping objects tightly and turning them to having cutting jaws for cutting tasks.
Other varieties feature a curved design with serrated metal teeth to grip slippery pipes securely, like water-pump pliers commonly employed by plumbers, which may also be known as channel-lock or arc-joint pliers.
Combination pliers serve multiple functions and have wide heads to give greater leverage, while needle-nose pliers feature slimmer designs to grasp fasteners in hard-to-reach places and turn them.
4. Screwdriver Bits
Screwdriver bits are indispensable tools that allow you to accomplish various assembly, maintenance and construction tasks more quickly and with minimal physical strain. There is a vast selection of bit types available; including phillips bits (also referred to as PH bits), square recess power bits with slots; hex head bits; spanner bits as well as hex heads.
Pozidriv screw driver bits offer an upgrade on traditional Phillips bits; their four contact points provide superior grip, mitigating cam-out and wear.
5. Measuring Tapes
Measuring tapes are flexible rulers used for linear measurements. They’re commonly employed in building and construction.
Search for indicator lines that divide inches into fractions – the larger number represents one full inch; then half an inch increments until 1/4-inch increments appear on tapes with such markings. Some tapes also feature metric markings.
Most tape measures come equipped with both a hook and nail slot to facilitate measurement. The nail slot allows you to take measurements without needing someone else to hold onto the tape while reading it; in addition, its hook allows it to easily grab onto nails.
6. Plumbers Tapes
Plumber’s tape should be part of every professional or DIY plumber’s toolbox, known as PTFE or Teflon tape. Used both as preventative measures against future pipe leakage as well as emergency sealant in case of an unexpected break, plumber’s tape provides invaluable protection and emergency seal.
Thread seal and lubricant, sold as two-part containers to preserve their longevity, serves as both thread sealer and lubricant to make screwing connections easier while simultaneously protecting their threads from seizing when unscrewing connections.
7. Plunger
Plungers are one of the most useful and affordable plumbing tools, helping users fix clogged drains and toilets themselves and save them from professional service providers.
When most people think of “plungers”, they typically envision an elementary model with a rubber cup at its tip attached to a handle and designed for flat surfaces like sinks.
8. Hacksaw
Hacksaws are classic hand tools used for cutting plastic, steel and other metals with firm and precise cuts, ideal for various projects and applications. Their adjustable frame resembles the letter D and secures blade tensioning firmly to hold blades firmly against one another.
When working with a hacksaw, it is critical to select an appropriate TPI (Tooth Per Inch). A higher TPI will create finer cuts.
9. Tubing Cutter
Tubing cutters are small tools designed to cut soft copper or PVC pipe. Working like ratcheting pruners, the tubing cutter cuts tubing when squeezed onto its handle.
Specialized tube cutters are available, while most general-purpose saws can also cut most types of plumbing pipes. Wood-cutting blades may be suitable for plastic pipe while metal-cutting blades work better when cutting metallic plumbing pipes.
10. Channel-Type Pliers
Pliers are one of the most versatile tools in any tool kit, as they can grip, tighten, loosen and cut objects.
Nail puller pliers feature standard jaws with serrated teeth to grip nail shanks without crushing them, and an adjustable pivot point that rides along material and increases leverage.
Crimping pliers feature angled jaws to squeeze electrical terminals onto wire ends and are an indispensable tool for projects such as rewiring or hose grip repair.