Are you prepared to tackle common plumbing issues in your home? Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or have years of experience maintaining your property, having the right tools on hand is vital for handling basic plumbing repairs.

While contacting a professional plumber is always recommended for complex problems, certain tools can help you address minor issues quickly and effectively. Here are the top five plumbing tools, recommended by St Paul Pipeworks, that every household should have for basic repairs to plumbing fixtures.

1. Six-Way Screwdriver

A six-way screwdriver is an essential tool, not just for plumbing but for a variety of household projects. This versatile tool combines multiple screwdriver types into one compact, space-saving device. It includes:

• Small and large Phillips head screwdrivers

• Small and large flathead screwdrivers

• Two nut driver sizes

This all-in-one tool is perfect for repairing plumbing fixtures and other items around the home, eliminating the need to store multiple individual screwdrivers. Its versatility and convenience make it a must-have for any homeowner’s toolbox.

2. Slip Joint Pliers (Channel Lock Pliers)

Slip joint pliers, often referred to as channel lock pliers, are indispensable for plumbing pipe repairs. These adjustable pliers feature a pivot point that can be rotated to customize the jaw opening size, allowing the tool to grip various fixtures securely. The benefits of slip joint pliers include:

• Adjustable jaw size: Makes them suitable for square nuts of varying dimensions.

• Dual usage: A pair of pliers allows you to hold one pipe steady while working on the adjoining nut or fitting, preventing accidental damage further down the line.

While slip joint pliers don’t cut wires, they are ideal for providing stability during plumbing repairs. Every homeowner should have two of these for maximum efficiency and durability.

3. Adjustable Wrench with Smooth Jaws

The adjustable wrench is another versatile tool essential for home plumbing repairs. Often referred to as a crescent wrench, it features a fixed jaw on one side and an adjustable, rotating jaw on the other, making it suitable for nuts and bolts of various sizes. Here’s why this tool is a plumbing necessity:

• Smooth jaws: Prevent marring or damaging the finish on finer, detailed nuts, such as those on bathroom fixtures or sink fittings.

• Versatility: While moderately adjustable, you may want to invest in multiple wrenches of varying sizes for larger or smaller nuts.

Unlike slip joint pliers, the adjustable wrench is the preferred choice when working with delicate, polished finishes that you want to keep intact.

4. Plunger

No plumbing toolkit is complete without a reliable plunger. Plungers are essential for clearing clogged drains and toilets, and different types are designed for specific tasks. The most common types include:

• Cup Plunger (Sink Plunger): Features a flat rubber cup and is most effective on flat surfaces, such as kitchen sinks, bathroom basins, and shower drains. Its flat rim creates a tight seal for efficient unclogging.

• Flange Plunger (Toilet Plunger): Designed specifically for toilets, this plunger has a narrower cup with a flange collar that extends into the toilet drain for an optimal seal.

There are also specialty plungers, such as accordion or taze plungers, which are used for less common situations. Whether you’re unclogging a sink or addressing a toilet backup, having the right plunger can make all the difference.

5. Drain Snake or Drain Auger

For heavier clogs that a plunger can’t tackle, a drain snake or drain auger is the go-to tool. Unlike plungers, which use suction to clear blockages, drain snakes physically break up obstructions deeper within the pipe. Here’s how they work:

• Flexible design: Allows the end wire to be fed into the drain pipe.

• Rotating mechanism: Helps break apart debris or obstructions clogging the pipe.

A drain snake is especially useful for clogged kitchen sinks, heavily blocked shower drains, or areas where plungers alone aren’t effective.

Bonus Tip: Always Keep a Bucket Handy

While not considered a tool, a small bucket is incredibly useful during plumbing repairs. Ideal for catching water when you disconnect fittings, a bucket helps prevent messes and protects your floors, cabinets, and countertops from unnecessary damage. A gallon-size bucket, such as those used for ice cream, is compact and easy to store with your plumbing tools.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While these tools can help you address minor plumbing issues at home, some repairs or more complicated problems require the expertise of a professional. St Paul Pipeworks has a team of trusted plumbers ready to assist with major plumbing repairs in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro areas.

Whether you’re dealing with persistent clogs, leaks, or more significant plumbing concerns, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today to ensure the job is done right the first time.

Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager

Plumbing Tools FAQs

Here are five frequently asked questions about essential plumbing tools for homeowners, along with expert answers to help you tackle basic plumbing repairs efficiently.

Q: What tools do I need for basic plumbing repairs in my home?

A: To handle simple plumbing issues, every homeowner should have:

• A six-way screwdriver for versatile use across multiple fixtures.

• Slip joint pliers (channel lock pliers) to grip pipe fittings securely.

• An adjustable wrench with smooth jaws for working on delicate nuts and bolts.

• A plunger (both cup and flange types) for unclogging drains and toilets.

• A drain snake or drain auger for breaking up deeper clogs in pipes.

Additionally, keep a small bucket handy for catching water during repairs to minimize messes. For help with complex plumbing repairs, contact St Paul Pipeworks in the Twin Cities area.

Q: How do I choose the right plunger for my plumbing needs?

A: There are two primary types of plungers:

• Cup Plunger: Best for flat surfaces like sinks, shower drains, and bathtubs. Its design creates a tight seal for efficient unclogging.

• Flange Plunger: Specifically designed for toilets, featuring a flange collar that fits into the toilet drain for better suction.

Specialty plungers, such as accordion or taze plungers, are available for unique situations. If you’re unsure which plunger to use, consult with a plumbing expert like St Paul Pipeworks, serving St. Paul and Minneapolis homeowners.

Q: When should I use a drain snake instead of a plunger?

A: A drain snake or drain auger is ideal for blockages deeper within the drain pipe that cannot be resolved with a plunger. It works by feeding a flexible wire down the drain and rotating it to break apart clogs. Use a drain snake for:

• Persistent sink clogs.

• Shower or bathtub drains with slow drainage.

• Toilet blockages that extend beyond the flange plunger’s reach.

For stubborn clogs that resist DIY solutions, contact St Paul Pipeworks, your trusted plumbing professionals in the Twin Cities.

Q: Why should I use slip joint pliers instead of regular pliers for plumbing repairs?

A: Slip joint pliers are uniquely designed for plumbing tasks due to their adjustable jaws, allowing you to handle square nuts and pipe fittings of various sizes. They enable precise gripping without damaging your plumbing fixtures. Having two pliers ensures you can:

• Hold one pipe steady while working on another fitting.

• Prevent damage to adjacent pipes and fittings during repairs.

If you’re unsure how to use slip joint pliers effectively, consider reaching out to St Paul Pipeworks, a dependable plumbing service for St. Paul and Minneapolis homeowners.

Q: Are adjustable wrenches suitable for all types of plumbing repairs?

A: Adjustable wrenches, such as crescent wrenches, are versatile tools that can be used for many plumbing tasks. They are particularly useful for:

• Nuts and bolts of varying sizes.

• Plumbing fixtures requiring smooth jaws to protect delicate finishes.

However, they may not be ideal for larger fittings or tasks requiring more torque. For specialized plumbing repairs, it’s best to consult professional plumbers like St Paul Pipeworks, serving St. Paul and Minneapolis homeowners with expert care.

By equipping your home with these essential tools and knowing how to use them, you can handle minor plumbing fixes with confidence. For larger repairs or emergencies, trust the team at St Paul Pipeworks, proudly serving the Twin Cities area!