PLUMBING
PLUMBING TOOLS
Plumbing tools split into two categories: hand tools that handle 90% of residential repair, and specialty gear (PEX expanders, drain machines) you only need on rough-in or stubborn clogs. The list below covers both. If you only buy three, a 14" pipe wrench, basin wrench, and PEX cinch tool will get you through every common task without a hardware-store run. The drain auger and propane torch land in the upgrade tier — needed often enough to own, rare enough that quality matters more than features.
Links below are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Picks are based on what tradespeople and serious DIYers actually use.
ESSENTIAL14-in pipe wrench (Ridgid)
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The single most useful plumbing tool. Ridgid heavy-duty (red handle) is the contractor standard — replaceable jaws, lifetime guarantee. Cheap pipe wrenches round off galvanized fittings.
ESSENTIALBasin wrench
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The only tool that reaches the supply nuts behind a sink. Spring-loaded swiveling head gets the angle that pliers can't. Worth its weight the first time you replace a kitchen faucet.
ESSENTIALPEX cinch clamp tool
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Lowest-cost entry to PEX work. Pinches stainless rings around fittings — code-compliant and reliable when done right. Pair with a removal tool for redos.
PEX expansion tool
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Used with PEX-A (Uponor/Wirsbo) — expands the tube over a fitting and lets it shrink back. Cleaner connections than cinch, but more expensive tool ($150+) and only works with PEX-A.
Tubing cutter (copper)
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15-22mm cutter handles ½", ⅝", ¾", and 1" copper. Roller-style cuts square and clean — sweat joints fit better when both ends are square.
Channel lock pliers (10-in pair)
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Two pairs side-by-side for unscrewing fittings and tightening compression nuts. Real Channellock brand — same as for electrical work.
Adjustable wrench set (8, 10, 12 in)
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For hex-shaped supply nuts and angle stops where pliers slip. The Bahco Crescent series is the gold standard.
Propane torch + striker
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For sweating copper joints. Self-igniting MAPP torches save the striker step but cost more. Bernzomatic TS8000 is the standard — broad flame for ½" and ¾" copper work.
Drain snake (25 ft hand auger)
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Clears most kitchen and lavatory drain clogs without a powered machine. The drum-style hand auger spins from a crank — adequate for residential clogs up to 40 ft of pipe.
Toilet auger (closet auger)
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Bent at the right angle to navigate the trap of a toilet without scratching the porcelain. Different tool from the standard drain snake — get one of each.
Water pressure test gauge
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Threads onto a hose bib and reads incoming static pressure. Check before sizing supply lines, regulators, or expansion tanks. Confirms whether you're running at code (40-80 PSI).
Plumber's putty + Teflon tape
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Putty for under sink strainers and base seals; Teflon (PTFE) tape for threaded pipe joints. Two cheap consumables you'll burn through faster than expected.