You don't have to be a plumbing genius to know that it can be helpful to have basic supplies around the house. That way you can prepare for emergencies, solve minor leaks and deal with disasters while waiting for the professionals to show up. Best of all, you can create a good plumber's kit at very little cost. We suggest you start with:
- Adjustable wrench: An adjustable wrench is an incredibly versatile and inexpensive tool that you can use to tighten connections, test valves, get a grip on slippery pipes, and much more. While an ordinary adjustable wrench can go a long way, if you don't mind spending around $15 extra dollars then you may also want to get a basin wrench, which is made to work with awkward sink pipes.
- Pliers: Pliers, especially needle-nose pliers, are excellent at more sensitive jobs and smaller components that a wrench just can't get a grip on. Pliers may also come in useful when clearing clogs and other delicate tasks.
- Towels: Keep several spare towels in your plumbing kit and thank yourself later! These will come in handy for mopping up leaks and spilled water, of course. But they have a whole lot of other uses, like cleaning grease off your hands, gripping hot pipes without getting burned, and much more. Plus, cheap towels can be bought in affordable bundles at nearly any store.
- Silicone tape: Silicone tapes are great for sealing minor leaks or at least slowing them down while you wait for a plumber. There are many brands, but products like Rescue Tape are quite common. Don't confuse this for plumber's or Teflon tape, which are used on the threading of pipes before they are screwed together.
- Caulk or putty: Either plumber's putty or silicone caulk are required items for working on pipes yourself. If you plan on ever installing or replacing a plumbing product like a sink, washing machine, toilet, or tub (even if it's a simple project), then you'll want these tools to properly connect pipes and complete the installation.
- Spare flashlight: You'll probably be dealing with dark spaces – having an extra flashlight with new batteries can be a godsend when finding a problem or working in small spaces.
For more info on tools and what to do during plumbing emergencies, contact Ragsdale – we've got the answers and service you need!
