
Emergency Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
CATEGORIES
- Blog
- 10 - 09 - 2024
- By Jude Saad

It’s late, and a laundry pipe bursts, slowly flooding your basement. You remembered turning off the main valve, but there’s a problem. You don’t have a pipe wrench to shut it down. You call an emergency plumber but can’t seem to get through. If only you had emergency plumbing tools.
Sometimes, a busted pipe, a backed-up toilet, or a clogged drain can be easily handled, at least until help comes. Emergency home plumbing essentials such as simple tools and supplies can save you time by allowing for quick fixes before the issue escalates. You also save on costly repairs and cleanup by taking care of the plumbing emergency early.
This guide is about basic plumbing tools for homeowners, with a list of the most important tools and supplies you must include in your DIY kit. Remember, preventing plumbing disasters is in your hands. Prepare for emergencies by having your plumbing emergency kit at home.
Why Homeowners Should Have Emergency Plumbing Tools
Do you know that 94,800 active/employed professional plumbers are in Australia? Based on the country’s 2024 population, this means there is one plumber for every 282 people! This also means there are not enough plumbers to handle emergencies quickly for everyone!
But if you have basic plumbing tools for homeowners, you can be ready for emergencies. Whether at home or your business, these tools can save you from costly repairs and give you peace of mind, knowing you can handle any plumbing issues that may come your way.
Avoiding Costly Repairs
Having handy tools can help you fix minor plumbing issues before they turn into major problems requiring expensive repairs and upgrades. For instance, using a hand wrench to tighten a leaking kitchen pipe prevents water damage and costly cabinetry and flooring repairs.
Gaining Peace of Mind
A typical household leak, if left unaddressed, can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water each year. Imagine a leak in your kitchen—having the right plumbing tools on hand provides peace of mind and allows you to address minor leaks promptly. With these tools, you can manage unexpected issues effectively, avoiding waiting for a professional to arrive the next morning.
Essential Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
Now that you know the importance of having DIY plumbing tools at home, it’s time to complete your plumbing emergency kit with the following tools and supplies.
1. Plunger
You must have a high-quality plunger ready to unclog drains, sinks and toilets quickly. A plunger can easily remove blockages and avoid water damage. Choose a plunger with a strong seal and a sturdy handle. To use a plunger effectively:
- Ensure the cup covers the drain opening completely.
- Add enough water over the plunger head to apply a strong force.
- Apply a strong and quick force to loosen the clog.
- Repeat the action until the clog clears.
2. Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench tightens or loosens connections, providing a strong grip. The head of a pipe wrench has an adjustable jaw that can lock on securely, allowing you to fix larger pipes with threaded connections. Remember the following when using a pipe wrench:
- Adjust the jaw well to ensure a secure fit.
- Apply steady pressure as you turn the wrench.
- When using the wrench on delicate fittings, wrap tape or cloth around the pipe before using the wrench.
3. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
A plumber’s tape is great for DIY plumbing fixes. It seals pipe threads before connection to ensure watertight connections. Teflon tape is also great for connecting gas connections to prevent gas from escaping. Ensure the correct use of a plumber’s tape by following these tips:
- Wrap the tape around the pipe in the direction of the threads.
- Wrap the tape three times around the thread.
- Avoid bunching the tape, and always ensure a smooth and secure fit.
4. Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench allows you to work on various types and sizes of plumbing nuts and bolts. Like the hand wrench, an adjustable wrench comes with an adjustable jaw, allowing you to adjust or loosen plumbing connections, pipes, faucets, and more. Remember these tips for using this kind of wrench.
- Ensure the jaw grips the nut or bolt securely.
- Turn the wrench using steady and strong pressure.
- Keep the adjustable jaw on the side where you apply pressure for the best grip strength.
5. Drain Snake (or Auger)
Stubborn clogs are no match for an auger or drain snake. This tool extends a coiled and long wire into the drain, sink or toilet. This wire will break up the blockage (usually hair, food waste, grease and mineral deposits) deep within the pipes. Here are ways to effectively use a drain snake:
- Insert the tip of the auger slowly as you rotate the handle.
- Continue inserting the auger even as you feel resistance.
- Pull it out slowly and remove the debris.
- Wear gloves when using a drain snake.
- Clean the tool after every use.
6. Bucket
A bucket can be used to catch water from leaking pipes or as you work on plumbing issues. It can also contain spills to prevent water damage and keep small fixtures or plumbing parts during repairs.
- Solve a simple, slow-flowing leak by placing a bucket under it.
- Place a mat underneath the bucket to avoid a mess.
- Use only durable buckets with a strong handle.
7. Plumber’s Pliers (Channel Locks)
Plumber’s pliers or channel locks can help you securely grip fittings, making it easier to tighten and loosen them. It has an adjustable jaw to use on different pipe sizes. Remember these tips when using plumber’s pliers:
- Adjust the jaw to accommodate the size of the pipe efficiently;
- I prefer plumber’s pliers with longer handles to ensure leverage.
- Apply a strong and steady grip.
8. Flashlight or Headlamp
Often, plumbing repairs require you to work in dark areas (under the sink, basements, bathroom closets, laundry areas, etc. A reliable flashlight or a headlamp illuminates these areas so you can work effectively. Flashlights are handheld, but headlamps allow you to use your hands as you deal with plumbing repairs freely. Always remember these tips:
- Keep your flashlights and headlamps well-charged.
- Have extra batteries handy if your lamps require batteries.
- Use a flashlight with adjustable beams to focus or widen the light to suit your needs.
9. Plumber’s Putty
A plumber’s putty is great for minor plumbing repairs, such as a small leak. You can shape it according to use, for example, using only a small amount and pressing it flat on gaps to keep water from leaking or wrapping a long piece to cover pipe connections.
- Use high-quality plumber’s putty; never settle for cheap products.
- Apply the putty around the base of drains, faucets or other plumbing fixtures to prevent leaks.
- Use your hand or use a flat tool or applicator to apply the putty.
- Choose the right putty for your needs. Some products can work even when the surface is wet.
- Dry the surface completely to allow a firm hold, even if the product can be used on wet surfaces.
10. Safety Equipment
Safety is always your priority, even when working with simple plumbing issues. You must have the following protective safety items handy:
- Safety gloves – rubber gloves give you a good grip and keep your hands clean especially when you’re fixing drains and faucet clogs.
- Goggles – wear goggles to avoid accidental splashes.
- Utility boots – wear boots before wading in flood water.
- Tool box or bag – keep your emergency plumbing tools handy and safe inside a toolbox or bag. With everything inside your bag, you don’t need to move back and forth to get tools and supplies to solve a plumbing issue.
Remember to buy mid-range plumbing tools, preferably with replacement warranties. Avoid budget tools, as these are inefficient and can be very frustrating.
When to Call a Professional
DIY plumbing can only do so much. You still need the help of a professional to get to the root of the issue and apply the right solution.
Recognising the Limits of DIY Plumbing
Simple leaks, clogs and blockages may be resolved by DIY plumbing; however, some issues require immediate professional attention. Issues such as:
- Busted pipes – bursting due to old and damaged pipes and fixtures
- Major leaks – water leaks you can’t solve with putty or by tightening the connections.
- Sewer line problems – sewer backup, smell of sewage inside your home
- Gas leaks – the smell of gas inside your home
- Water heater problems – no water or cold water issues
should be handled as soon as possible for safe and effective repairs. For these issues, do not wait for things to become worse. Call an emergency plumbing service at once.
Avoiding Further Damage
Using a wrench to tighten an old leaking pipe can cause it to burst open and cause major damage. Using a plunger to fix an overflowing toilet can only make the clog worse, causing black water to back up and creating a huge mess!
Fixing these issues yourself can lead to further damage, expensive repairs, and health hazards. To deal with complex issues, call a professional as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Emergency plumbing tools can help you quickly handle minor plumbing issues before they turn worse. These tools can save you time, money, and effort, avoiding further damage. However, plumbing issues are best left to the care of experts.
Link Plumbing offers fast, affordable, same-day services anywhere in Sydney and nearby suburbs.
Call Link Plumbing for emergency plumbing services at 0412 056 027
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