Plumbing is an essential trade that relies on having the right tools for the job. With new technology and innovations constantly emerging, plumbers now have access to advanced tools that make their work more efficient. Here are the 30 best plumbing tools that are gaining the most popularity this year.
Basic Plumbing Hand Tools
These standard tools form the foundation of every plumber's toolkit.
1. Plumber's Putty
This sealant fills gaps and prevents leaks around faucets, drains and other fixtures. It's great for quick fixes and seals that don't require permanence.
2. PTFE Tape
Also called plumber's tape, this tape wraps around pipe threads to create a tighter seal and prevent leaks. It's useful on all threaded pipe connections.
3. Adjustable Wrenches
Used to grip and turn nuts and bolts. Look for corrosion resistant models with comfortable grips.
4. Channellock Pliers
The adjustable jaws on these versatile pliers allow them to grip pipes, Tap nuts, and many other plumbing fixtures.
5. Basin Wrench
Designed to reach nuts and bolts in the tight confines around sinks and toilets.
Cutting Tools
For shaping and sizing pipes.
6. PVC Pipe cutter
Cuts plastic PVC pipe quickly and easily with a simple squeeze of the handle.
7. Copper Tubing Cutter
Slices through copper pipes leaving a smooth edge. Useful for creating clean joints.
8. Hacksaw
For cutting plastic metal and other piping in places a pipe cutter can't reach. Use fine-tooth blades for best results.
9. Tube Bender
Creates precise angled bends in copper tubing that gently curve to fit around obstacles.
Joining Tools
For assembling a strong, leak-proof pipe system
10. Pipe Wrench
Grips and turns pipe joints tightly when assembling or disassembling piping.
11. Soldering Torch
Heats metal fittings and solder to form permantent seals between copper pipes.
12. Wire Brush
Cleans grime and oxidation from pipes prior to soldering for stronger joints.
13. Sand Cloth
Used to scuff PVC pipe where glue will be applied to create better adhesion.
14. Deburring Tool
Removes rough edges from the inside and outside of cut metal and plastic pipes so joints fit together smoothly.
15. Pipe Joint Compound
Seals threaded fittings to prevent leaks. Won't harden like pipe joint tape.
Drain Cleaning Equipment
For removing clogs and obstructions from drain lines.
16. Plunger
Creates suction/pressure for unclogging sink and toilet drains. Get an overflow plate style for efffective plunging
17. Drain Auger
Flexible metal cable penetrates deep into drains, breaking up debris to clear clogs. Hand crank models give you more control.
18. Drain Snake
Designed for longer straight runs. Feed the spinning cable into the drain line to scrub away build up and clear blockages.
19. Shop Vacuum
Catches water and debris when used with drain cleaning tools. Models with detachable blowers can also force air to clear clogged drains.
Specialty Plumbing Tools
Advanced gadgets for specific jobs
20. Pipe Inspection Camera
scans the insides of pipes and drains on a monitor to locate clogs, leaks and other problems.
21. Brass Cable Drain Rods
Stiff brass rods fit down kitchen sink drains to remove blockages like food waste.
22. Thermal Imaging Camera
Identifies moisture in walls, leaks in pipes and other hidden plumbing issues by detecting temperature differences.
23. Water Leak Sensor
Automatically shuts off water flow and sounds an alarm when a leak is detected in the surrounding area.
24. Digital Manometer
Tests pressure levels in gas lines. Important for adjusting and troubleshooting gas appliances.
25. Hydrostatic Test Pump
Pressurises water supply systems to check for leaks during installation and repairs.
Basic Plumbing Power Tools
For drilling, cutting, fastening and more.
26. Cordless Drill
Drives self-tapping screws into studs for installing pipe hangers, plus drills holes for pipes and fittings.
27. Circular Saw
Cuts ventilation ducts, plastic sheet material, and other items plumbers often encounter on jobsites.
28. Reciprocating Saw
Cuts through nails, screws, and through plumbing materials like cast iron pipes in tight spots.
29. Oscillating Tool
Handy for plunge cuts into drywall and flooring when running new supply lines. Sands and grinds too.
30. Impact Driver
Drives lag bolts and other fasteners with force. The impact action prevents stripping screw heads.
This covers the most in-demand plumbing tools that enable plumbers to do quality work. Investing in the latest equipment makes projects faster and provides long-term value.