Basic tools that you should have on hand to make simple plumbing
repairs include:
Wrenches, including pipe wrenches, in a range of sizes to fit the
pipe, fittings, fixtures, equipment, and appliances in the system.
Screwdrivers in a range of sizes to fit the faucets, valves, and
other parts of the system.
Ball peen hammer or a 12- or 16-ounce clawhammer.
Rubber force cup (plunger or "plumber's friend").
Cold chisel and center punch.
Cleanout auger ("snake").
Friction tape.
Adjustable pliers.
Additional tools required for more extensive plumbing repairs include:
Pipe vise.
Set of pipe threading dies and stocks.
Hacksaw and blades (blades should have 32 teeth per inch).
Pipe cutter, roller type.
Tapered reamer or half-round file.
Carpenter's brace.
Set of wood bits.
Gasoline blowtorch.
Lead pot and ladle.
Calking tools.
Copper tube cutter with reamer (if you have copper tubing).
Always use the proper size wrench or screwdriver. Do not use pipe
wrenches on nuts with flat surfaces; use an adjustable or open-end
wrench. Do not use pipe wrenches on polished-surface tubings or
fittings, such as found on plumbing fixtures; use a strap wrench. Tight
nuts or fittings can sometimes be loosened by tapping lightly with a
hammer or mallet.
It should not be necessary to stock a large number of spare parts. Past
plumbing troubles may give some indication as to the kind of parts most
likely to be needed. Spare parts should include:
Faucet washers and packing.
One or two lengths of the most common type and size of piping in the
plumbing system.
Several unions and gaskets or unions with ground surfaces.
Several couplings and elbows.
A few feet of pipe strap.
An extra hose connection.