Most plumbing problems start small: a running toilet, a slow drain, a drip under the sink. With a few basic tools and the right spare parts, you can stop the damage in minutes and often fix the problem yourself, or at least keep things under control until a plumber arrives.
The basic plumbing tool kit
- A flange plunger for toilets and a cup plunger for sinks and tubs.
- An adjustable wrench and slip-joint pliers for supply lines, P-traps and fittings.
- A hand auger (drain snake) to clear hair and debris that a plunger cannot reach.
- Thread seal tape to stop small leaks at threaded joints.
- A bucket, towels and a flashlight for working under sinks and catching water.
Spares worth keeping in a drawer
- A toilet flapper and fill valve that fit your toilets.
- Faucet washers and O-rings for your most-used fixtures.
- A couple of braided supply lines for sinks and toilets.
- Hose washers for outdoor faucets and the washing machine.
Before you start any repair, find the shut-off valve for that fixture, and know where the main water shut-off is for the whole house.
When to put the tools down
Gas lines, water heater controls, sewer backups, repiping and anything inside a wall are jobs for a licensed plumber. The same goes for a leak you cannot stop with a shut-off valve. In those cases, close the main valve and call us.
We are here when you need us
Specialty Plumbing handles repairs, fixtures and emergencies for homes across Lake County and Northern Illinois. Request service or see our residential services.