33 Best Plumbing Tools Every Plumber Must Have in 2024

A plumber needs to have a reliable set of tools on hand to get the job done in a timely and quality manner under any conditions. In addition to must have plumbing tools like wrenches and pipe vises, the modern plumber needs power tools, inspection chambers, pipe press systems, and more.

 

Cheap, low-quality tools can compromise safety and lead to subpar work, so investing in professional-grade hardware is essential. This article looks at 33 indispensable tools for plumbers in 2024. You will find detailed descriptions, usage guidelines, and tips on how to choose each tool. 

 

After reading this article, you can replenish your toolbox with the best plumbing tools and improve efficiency. Provide everything you need to perform quality plumbing work in the new year 2024!

Best Plumbing Hand Tools

 

Hand tools are the backbone of any plumbing arsenal. Below is a plumbing tools list that no professional plumber can do without:

 

• Wrenches of various types and sizes

 

• Pipe vises and clubs

 

• Tools for working with pipes: pipe cutters, bending devices, and reamers

 

• Tools for cleaning drains and pipes: plungers, hand pipe cleaners

 

• Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers

 

• Measuring tools: tape measures, levels, angle gauges

 

• Specialized tools: fitting wrenches, thread extractors

A detailed description of each type of hand tool with examples and recommendations for selection can be found in the corresponding sections of our article. We also guide you in choosing trusted brands and manufacturers known for producing high-quality, reliable,  basic plumbing tools.

Plumber Wrenches

 

They are an essential part of the plumbing toolkit. They allow you to work with threaded connections, pipe fittings, fittings and other elements of plumbing systems. So, what tools do plumbers use?

 

 

Pipe Wrench

 

The pipe wrench is a solid adjustable for working large-diameter pipes and fittings. Its powerful notched jaws hold the parts firmly in place, allowing them to rotate freely. The pipe wrench is used for assembling/disassembling pipes and tightening/ loosening threaded connections.

 

Wrench

 

 

The adjustable or lever wrench is a universal plumbing tool with an adjustable opening range of the jaws. It allows you to work on various thread sizes without using a whole set of wrenches. The extended handle provides good leverage.

 

Key for Working with Cranes

 

The special T-wrench is used for mounting, dismounting, and adjusting taps and faucets in hard-to-reach places, e.g., under the sink. Its elongated rod and swivel head allow you to work freely, even in tight spaces.

 

Pipe socket wrench

 

The pipe socket wrench is a type of wrench with rectangular end jaws and a ratchet mechanism. It is designed to work with hexagonal socket pipe joints. The compact shape of the socket wrench allows access in confined spaces.

 

Wrench for Taps and Valves

 

A special wrench in the form of a cross or square with splines for specific types of valves and taps is used for working with external shut-off valves. It provides a secure grip and sufficient force to open/close the valve.

Choosing the proper wrench largely determines the convenience and efficiency of plumbing work. The described wrenches are mandatory in the arsenal of any master plumber.

 

Plumbing Tools for Pipe Work

 

Working with piping is essential to plumbing work, whether repairing, installing, replacing, or cleaning pipes, water, and supply lines. Plumbers need specialized tools designed to perform these tasks efficiently and safely. This section will look at the best plumber tools for working with pipes.

 

Metal Hacksaw

 

 

A metal hacksaw is an indispensable tool for plumbers because it can cut a variety of materials, including metal and plastic pipes, screws, bolts, etc. Plumbers always carry spare hacksaw blades with them to be ready to go.

 

Pipe cutters and plastic pipe cutters

 

To properly work with copper or plastic pipes, plumbers need the proper tools to remove, replace, and resize pipes. There are many hand-held pipe cutters, plastic pipe cutters, and lever tools for PVC pipes on the market from which beginners and experienced plumbers can choose the most suitable ones.

 

Blowtorch (gas torch)

 

 

Plumbers need soldering lamps to join copper pipes and fittings by soldering. These compact hand tools allow plumbers to heat pipe sections to high temperatures locally, making it possible to solder new pipes or replace existing ones.

 

Plumber's tape (FUM tape)

 

 

Also known as "plumber's tape," plumbers use it to prevent leaks at threaded pipe connections. Quality sealing tape is resistant to high and low temperatures, can stretch for a better fit, and never dries out.

Choosing the suitable pipe tools is critical to the success of any plumbing job. These tools allow plumbers to install, repair, and maintain piping systems safely and efficiently.

Plumber Drain Cleaning Tools

 

Clearing clogs and unclogging pipes is a common task for plumbers. To do this effectively, the best tools for plumbers are required. In this section, we'll look at the top tools for pipe cleaning.

 

 

Plungers (piston vacuum pumps)

 

Plumbing plungers are one of the most common tools used to clear clogs. There are two main types: cup plungers for sinks and shower trays and flanged plungers specifically for toilets. These hand tools use air pressure to clear clogs in drains and pipes.

 

Manual Pipe Plungers

 

Manual pipe plungers are specialized tools for clearing clogs in sinks and tubs. They are a flexible metal cable with a screw tip on the end. The plumber inserts the plunger into the clogged pipe, finds the clog, and pulls it back out, clearing the path.

 

Mechanical pipe plungers

 

Unlike manual plungers, mechanical pipe plungers are powered by an electric motor, making them more powerful and effective for clearing deep and complex clogs. These machines are equipped with a long flexible rope with cutting attachments to break up blockages.

 

Pipe Inspection Cameras

 

Inspection cameras are compact video cameras attached to a long, flexible cable. Plumbers run the camera through pipes to visually assess the condition of the pipes and detect clogs, cracks, and other damage. This helps to accurately diagnose the problem before fixing it.

 

Hydrodynamic cleaning machines

 

Hydrodynamic cleaning machines use powerful, high-pressure water jets to clear drain and sewer pipes' most difficult clogs and buildup. These high-performance systems provide deep and thorough pipe cleaning.

Having the right pipe-cleaning tools is crucial for plumbers. Whether you need to remove a trivial clog in a sink or clear a deep blockage in a central pipe, professionals should always have access to reliable tools.

Plumbing Power Tools

 

When hand tools are insufficient, plumbers must turn to power tools. Modern power tools significantly increase productivity and make many plumbing jobs more accessible. In this section, we look at the best power tools for plumbers.

 

 

Impact drills

 

Impact drills are indispensable for drilling holes in stone, brick, and concrete - materials that plumbers must regularly work with. The impact mechanism in these drills provides extra force to drill hard surfaces more efficiently. For mobility, many plumbers prefer cordless impact drills.

 

Circular Saw Kits

 

Circular saw kits include saws of various diameters to cut perfectly round holes in materials, including wood, plastic, drywall, and metal. These attachments mount on a drill and rotate at high speeds to provide precise cuts for installing pipes and electrical wiring.

 

Drills with SDS+ chuck

 

Perforators are powerful percussion tools designed to drill holes in harsh surfaces such as concrete. Plumbers often need to remove walls or floors to install pipes, and perforators make this task much more accessible.

 

Sabre saws

 

Sabre saws are highly productive and versatile. They can cut plastic, wood, copper, and steel pipes and cut openings in various materials. Their compact size and flexibility make saber saws handy for working in confined spaces.

 

Angle grinders

 

Angle grinders are universal tools for grinding, polishing, and deburring. They can also be used to cut bolts, rods, and pipes. Such a tool in a plumber's arsenal allows them to handle various tasks effectively.

From impact drills to perforators and saber saws, modern power tools open up new opportunities for plumbers, increasing their productivity and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These powerful gadgets have become essential tools in a plumber's arsenal, allowing them to tackle even the most challenging jobs easily.

Plumbing Safety Tools

 

A plumber's work involves many risks, such as exposure to hazardous materials, falling objects, cuts, and burns. Therefore, the use of appropriate personal protective equipment is essential. This section looks at the best safety tools for plumbing work.

 

 

Safety glasses

 

Plumbers must work with harsh chemicals, stay in dusty areas, and perform operations where small particles can fly around. Safety glasses that fit snugly over the face provide reliable eye protection from damage.

 

Gloves

 

Gloves protect the plumber's hands from cuts, punctures, sprains, and contact with harmful substances. Modern gloves are made of durable and wear-resistant materials while maintaining the necessary sensitivity of the fingers for working with small parts.

 

Thermal shields

 

When performing soldering work, there is a risk of burns or damage to surrounding surfaces. Heat shields and pads protect the plumber and the work area from high temperatures and accidental sparks.

 

Respirators and masks

 

Plumbing work often generates dust, chips, and other harmful particles. Respirators and masks protect the plumber's respiratory system from such contaminants, reducing the risk of respiratory illness.

 

Headphones and earplugs

 

Plumbers often have to work in environments with a lot of noise from power tools and equipment. Properly using appropriate headphones or earplugs can help avoid hearing problems for years.

 

Safety is paramount for plumbers. Observing all safety precautions and using appropriate personal protective equipment protects the technician's health and allows him to concentrate on doing his job to the best of his ability.

 

Other Essential Tools for Plumbers

 

In addition to standard hand and power plumber tools, the list of specialized accessories includes other tools that make the work much easier. 

 

Expanders and fittings for PEX pipes

 

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are increasingly being used as an alternative to metal and PVC pipes due to their flexibility and ease of installation. PEX expanders are a drill that expands the end of the pipe to insert a metal fitting into it. The pipe then assumes its original shape, snugly encompassing the fitting and creating a tight connection.

 

Crimping tools (crimpers)

 

Crimping tools are widely used not only for PEX pipes but also for other types of pipes. They create strong joints by deforming or compressing the material, locking it in place. Quality crimpers ensure long-lasting and leak-proof joints.

 

Pipe benders

 

Pipe benders allow you to carefully bend copper or stainless steel tubing to the desired angle without creasing or pinching. They are an indispensable tool for creating smooth pipe bends around obstacles.

 

Shortened screwdrivers

 

Shortened screwdrivers can save a plumber time and effort despite their apparent simplicity. Their compact size and short handle make it easy to work with screws and bolts in hard-to-reach places where standard screwdrivers simply won't fit.

 

Measuring devices and calculators

 

 

Specialized measuring devices and calculators are necessary for accurate calculations of plumbing system diameters, flow rates, volumes, and other parameters. They help to avoid errors and inaccuracies in the planning and execution of work.

 

From unique tools for working with PEX pipes to measuring equipment, a professional plumber should be equipped with all the tools necessary to tackle the tasks at hand effectively. These tools increase productivity and improve the quality of the work performed.

 

Software Tools by Orcatec for Your Plumbing Business

 

Orcatec is a universal software solution for managing the work of service companies in the home services software. It combines many valuable tools for plumbing and commercial plumbing operations in one platform, simplifying organization and optimizing work processes.

 

Planning and dispatching tools

 

Orcatec makes it easy to plan tasks for your team and optimize logistics with artificial intelligence-based algorithms. The system automatically calculates optimal routes for technicians based on location, traffic congestion, and other factors.

 

Accounting module

 

The integrated accounting tool tracks revenues, expenses, and profits in real time. This helps in making informed decisions and forecasting future financial flows.

 

Invoicing and online payment

 

Orcatec's platform simplifies customer billing and provides a secure online payment gateway to accept credit cards directly in the mobile app with the lowest fees in the industry.

 

Customer Relationship Management

 

Built-in customer relationship management (CRM) tools help you track service history, capture feedback, and maintain effective communication with existing and potential customers.

 

With Orcatec, plumbing companies can increase efficiency, reduce time spent on routine tasks, and focus on what matters most - providing quality customer service. With all the tools you need in one system, Orcatec becomes the trusted digital assistant for running a profitable residential services business.

 

Conclusion

 

In this article, we looked at an indispensable list of plumbing tools that every professional should have in 2024. From basic wrenches and pipe plungers to specialized power tools, measuring devices, and personal protective equipment, this arsenal is essential to effectively perform plumbing work of any complexity.

 

Beyond physical tools, however, today's professionals need reliable plumbing business software to help organize business processes, increase productivity, and simplify customer interactions. That's why we recommend trying Orcatec's innovative platform.

 

Orcatec is a universal solution that combines many useful tools for running a service business in the consumer services industry. Job scheduling, logistics optimization, accounting, billing, online payment, and customer relationship management are all available in one intuitive system.

 

Use Orcatec today and experience all the benefits of digitalizing your plumbing business. Combining reliable physical tools with advanced software will help you reach new heights in your professional life and provide a seamless service to your customers.

 

FAQ 

 

Where to Buy Plumbing Tools?

 

It is important to choose trusted online resources and stores specializing in selling professional plumbing devices. Carefully study reviews before purchasing.

 

What are the Most Essential Tools for Plumbers?

 

Essential tools used for plumbing include wrenches, pipe vises, pipe cutters, plungers, hammers, and press tools. A detailed description can be found in our article.

 

Are Power Tools Necessary for Plumbing?

 

From impact drills to perforators and saber saws, the list of tools used by a plumber

 is quite extensive. These modern tools open up new opportunities for professionals, significantly increasing their productivity and expanding the boundaries of work performed.