Best Plumbing Tools: Top 30 Must-Haves for Every PlumberWhether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic DIYer, having the best plumbing tools is the difference between a seamless fix and a frustrating leak. Plumbing requires precision, strength, and a toolkit that can tackle a wide range of jobs. Below is a comprehensive list of the 30 most important plumbing tools, ranked by their utility, durability, and frequency of use.
Essential Plumbing Tools You Can't Go Without
1. Pipe Wrench
The cornerstone of every plumbing kit—ideal for gripping and turning threaded pipes.
2. Adjustable Wrench
Perfect for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts of various sizes, especially compression fittings.
3. Basin Wrench
Specially designed for hard-to-reach nuts under sinks and behind basins.
4. Plunger
A household hero. Useful for unclogging toilets and drains quickly.
5. Tongue-and-Groove Pliers
Versatile gripping tool for turning, twisting, or squeezing pipes and fittings.
6. Hacksaw
Used for cutting through metal and plastic pipes, nuts, bolts, and screws.
7. Pipe Cutter
Provides a clean and smooth cut for copper pipes—more efficient than a hacksaw.
8. Plumbing Snake / Auger
Vital for clearing stubborn clogs deep in drain lines.
9. Tape Measure
Accurate measurements are critical when installing or replacing plumbing components.
10. Teflon Tape (Thread Seal Tape)
Essential for sealing threaded connections and preventing leaks.
Intermediate Tools for Added Versatility
11. Pipe Threader
Required for cutting threads on the ends of pipes so they can be screwed together.
12. Faucet Key
A compact tool for turning outdoor faucet handles and sillcocks.
13. Propane Torch
Used to sweat copper pipes during soldering.
14. Plumber’s Torch
Smaller than propane torches; perfect for quick soldering jobs.
15. Tubing Cutter
Specialized for cleaner cuts on softer piping materials like plastic and copper.
16. Compression Sleeve Puller
Aids in removing compression sleeves from pipes without damage.
17. Closet Auger
Designed specifically for clearing toilet clogs deeper than a plunger can reach.
18. Pipe Bender
Helps form bends in copper piping without kinking.
19. Pipe Reamer
Removes burrs and debris from the inside of cut pipes, ensuring smooth flow.
20. Deburring Tool
Used for smoothing the edges of plastic or metal pipes after cutting.
Advanced Tools for Pro-Level Results
21. Inspection Camera
Used to visually inspect inside pipes and diagnose issues without disassembly.
22. Wet/Dry Vacuum
Clears water, debris, and clogs efficiently before repairs or installation.
23. Crimping Tool
Secures PEX connections with crimp rings.
24. Pipe Locator
Helps find buried or hidden pipes—crucial for remodeling or repair.
25. Pressure Gauge
Monitors water pressure for safety and troubleshooting.
26. Drain Test Plug
Used to block off drains to test for leaks or flow efficiency.
27. Pipe Freezing Kit
Freezes water in pipes to allow repairs without draining the system.
28. Soldering Kit
Contains flux, solder, and cleaning brushes—essential for copper pipe connections.
29. Radiator Spanner
Specialized for working with radiator valves and fittings.
30. Safety Gear (Gloves, Goggles, Knee Pads)
Protect yourself from flying debris, burns, or chemical splashes.