A plumbing problem such as a clogged drain or toilet is always an irritating problem for a homeowner. Fortunately, there are a number of plumbing problems that a homeowner can fix without having to hire a plumber. For instance, clogged drains and toilets and mild leaks that are not a symptom of a bigger problem, can often be easily repaired. For this reason, every homeowner should have a basic plumbing tool kit in the event they encounter a minor plumbing problem.
There are low cost basic plumbing products that homeowners should include in their toolkit. These products can be purchased at a plumbing supply store and hardware store. You may also find these tools at a department store where you can often get a really good price. For instance, for clogged drains, there are inexpensive drain plungers that can be used to clear drain clogs. There are also toilet plungers that are used for clearing clogged toilets.
Plumbers putty is another product that should be included in a tool kit. It is useful for sealing small cracks and holes in pipes, toilets, faucets…etc. A plumber snake is another tool that is useful if the toilet plunger is not clearing the clog. There is a special sink auger that is used specifically for sink drains, and not the sewer line. Both the plumber snake (toilet auger) and sink auger contain a long flexible cable and is fed through the pipe. As well, pliers and a pipe wrench are essential for dealing with a plumbing problem. They are important for holding pipe fittings when soldering, and unscrewing and tightening nuts, screws, and washers. It is important to remember that different pliers and wrenches are used for different plumbing repairs. You want to make sure that you do not use the wrong tool and damage the plumbing mechanisms.
Plumbers tape is another important item that should be included in a home plumbing repair kit. This tape can be used to wrap the threaded plumbing joint connections. It is effective at stopping and preventing minor links in the pipe connections. It is also used to prevent sewer gas from escaping from the threaded joint connections. It is a very inexpensive product. Another important item that a homeowner should have is a flashlight. A flashlight will allow the homeowner to see in dark and small places.
There are many plumbing issues that require mild repair that often can be performed by a homeowner. These items can be purchased at affordable places in a wide variety of stores that carry home renovation and repair supplies at greatly discounted prices. If there is a serious plumbing problem which requires repair by a person who has experience with plumbing systems, it is important to call in a professional plumber. If you try to fix a problem and create more damage, you will likely end up with a much higher repair than if you had just called the plumber. They have the education, certification, and experience to handle all plumbing issues and will be able to make the repair in a professional and skilled manner.