Every professional plumber needs a reliable toolkit for any job, whether in the commercial or residential sector. That’s because they must overcome many obstacles in the field. Regrettably, plumbers work in small and cluttered areas, so having the appropriate tools is essential. This article explores the vital equipment every plumber should have.
The Benefits of High-Quality Plumbing Tools
The use of high-grade plumbing equipment can be beneficial for professional plumbers. Here are a few benefits:
- Increased safety: Using high-quality tools that rarely break down or malfunction helps plumbers avoid potentially dangerous workplace situations. Plumbers can avoid potentially dangerous situations while working by using high-quality tools that are less prone to breaking or malfunctioning.
- Improved work efficiency: With the help of top-notch equipment, professional plumbers can finish tasks faster and more efficiently, enabling them to handle additional projects and increase their income.
- Better quality work: Using high-quality tools, plumbers can deliver high-caliber work, leading to repeat business and referrals.
Here are a few essential tools that professional plumbers must have:
Pressing Technology and Power Tools
In plumbing, pressing technology is a new invention that allows plumbers to create connections without soldering. Some of the pressing technology tools that are indispensable for this process are:
Press Tools
Press tools eliminate the need for soldering or welding when joining pipes and fittings. These tools use hydraulic force to crimp and fit the pipe together, creating a secure and leak-free joint. Press tools are available in different sizes and can be used with various fittings, including copper.
Press Jaws
Press jaws are the interchangeable parts of press tools used to crimp pipes and fittings. They come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the fitting type. The right press jaw is essential to ensure a secure, leak-free joint.
Oscillating Multi-Tools
Oscillating multi-tools are versatile power tools designed for a wide range of applications. These tools feature interchangeable accessories, such as cutting blades, sanding pads, scraping attachments, and grout removal tools, allowing them to handle tasks like cutting, sanding, grinding, and more. Oscillating multi-tools excel in tight spaces and intricate cuts where other devices may struggle. The high versatility of oscillating multi-tools makes them invaluable in any plumber, contractor, or technician toolbox.
Drain Cleaning
When it comes to plumbing problems, clogged drains are among the most common. To clear blockages and debris from drains, urinals, and toilets, professional plumbers use specialized tools of the trade, such as:
Drain Augers
One of the essential tools for professional plumbers is the drain auger. That’s because the equipment helps to unclog blockages in pipes and toilets. Also called drain snake, drain augers come in various designs, such as toilet and combination models. Toilet augers best serve smaller pipes, while combination augers serve larger ones and more difficult clogs.
Hydro Jetters
Pipe blockages can be removed using high-pressure water systems called hydro-jetters. These pieces of equipment are perfect for clearing out stubborn clogs brought by debris like grease and dirt. Hydro-jetters come in various sizes, from compact handheld models to bigger trailer-mounted models.
Drain Cleaning Machines
If you’re looking for essential equipment for professional plumbers, drain-cleaning machines are the ultimate choice. These tools of the trade are perfect, especially when dealing with more challenging clogs in industrial and commercial applications. They rotate a cable with a cutting head to cut through stubborn blockages. Various types are available, including sink, drum, and sectional machines.
Wrenches and Tubing Tools
Wrenches and tubing tools are indispensable in any plumbing project as they tighten and loosen fittings and connections. Some of the critical wrenches and tubing toolkits include:
Pipe Wrenches
The purpose of a pipe wrench is to turn and grip pipes and fittings. They are available in various shapes and sizes, such as straight, offset, and chain pipe wrenches. The proper size wrench must be used to avoid harming the pipe or fitting.
Basin Wrenches
Basin wrenches are the best option for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts in small spaces, like beneath sinks. They feature an extended, narrow handle that can fit into small spaces and a swiveling jaw that can hold nuts and bolts at an angle.
Tubing Cutters
If you’re working on a plumbing project that involves replacing or repairing pipes, you’ll need tubing cutters to cut through copper, brass, and other tubing materials.
Diagnostic Tools
Identifying plumbing issues requires diagnostic tools of the trade for locating leaks, blockages, gas and other problems. Some of the necessary diagnostic tools include:
Pipe and Cable Locators
Accurate identification of the location of underground pipes and cables is essential to prevent accidental damage during repairs and installations. Pipe and cable locators utilize electromagnetic signals to pinpoint the pipes and cables ‘ location precisely.
Pro Tip: If you want a clearer idea of how deep pipes or cables are buried, find a locator with a depth indicator for pipes and cables.
Inspection Cameras
Inspection cameras are a must-have tool for identifying issues in pipes and drains that are not easily identifiable. They are fitted with LED lights and high-quality cameras that allow you to see inside pipes and drains, and they come in various sizes and are used for different purposes, including sewer lines and ductwork.
Combustion Analyzers
A combustion analyzer is vital for precisely monitoring and analyzing combustion processes in industries and applications involving fuel-burning appliances like boilers, heaters, and furnaces. It measures key parameters like oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, stack temperature, excess air, and efficiency. By providing real-time data, it optimizes fuel consumption, reduces emissions, ensures compliance with regulations, and ensures the target appliance is in proper working order.
Manometers
A manometer is a pressure measurement device that uses a liquid-filled U-shaped tube and a scale to determine pressure differences. It is essential in HVAC, plumbing, and industrial processes for precise pressure monitoring, diagnosing issues, and ensuring system safety.
Leak Detection Equipment
Plumbers must have the equipment necessary to find and fix leaks quickly. That is because even minor leaks can result in significant challenges. Examples of leak detection equipment include digital leak detectors, acoustic leak detectors, and infrared thermometers.
Conclusion
To enhance the quality of work, improve productivity, and avoid costly repairs, every proficient plumber must stock themselves with the necessary tools and equipment. If you’re a city plumber needing essential equipment, we’ve got you covered.
Visit our warehouse to browse our wide variety of essential tools and supplies, browse our list of industry-leading manufacturers, and contact us today to see how we can become your “Supply House of Choice.”
