25+ Must-Have Plumbing Tools For Every Plumber and Homeowner

Working on plumbing issues becomes far easier when you have the right tools at hand. A well-chosen plumbing toolkit protects fixtures, cuts the risk of leaks, and ensures repairs last. Professional plumbers rely on specific tools every day because they offer precision, reach, and control that general household tools can’t match. Even homeowners who prefer handling minor repairs benefit from keeping a few essential pieces ready.

This guide pulls from the tools plumbers use in real field conditions. You’ll find practical insights on basic plumbing tools, how each one is used, and why certain items belong in every plumbing toolkit list. Whether you’re tightening a loose faucet, clearing a drain, or installing new pipework, the right equipment makes the job safer, cleaner, and far more efficient.

Essential Plumbing Tools Every Plumber Should Own

A reliable plumbing toolkit is built around tools that deliver grip, control, and precision. These pieces are staples on residential and commercial job sites because they help prevent overtightening, damaged fittings, and unsafe work positions. Below, each tool is paired with real-world examples and common mistakes to avoid.

Pipe Wrench (Straight, Offset, Aluminum)

A pipe wrench is designed to tighten or loosen threaded pipes and heavy fittings. Its serrated jaws bite into metal, giving plumbers the leverage needed to work on stubborn connections.

Where are Pipe Wrenches used?

Removing old galvanized pipe sections
Tightening threaded iron or brass fittings
Holding pipe steady while applying torque with another wrench

Recommended Pipe Wrench sizes:

Size	Function
10 Inch	Light fixture work, short pipe sections
14 Inches - 18 Inches	Standard household plumbing
More Than 24 Inches	Commercial or Heavy Duty Repair

Straight vs. offset heads:

Straight head: best for open areas and standard pipe runs
Offset head: ideal for tight corners, overhead work, and awkward angles

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Pro Tip: The jaws in the pipe wrench can spoil your decorative finish - make sure you use it carefully if you can’t avoid using one on decorative/chrome fixtures.

Adjustable Wrench (Crescent Wrench)

An adjustable wrench handles a wide range of hex nuts and compression fittings. Its smooth jaws make it suitable for fixtures where a pipe wrench would cause damage.

Why do the best plumbers choose adjustable wrenches?

Works on supply lines, shutoff valves, and under-sink hardware
Adjusts quickly to multiple sizes
Protects softer metals like brass

Remember that over-tightening chrome or nickel-plated fixtures can do more harm than good. Excessive pressure can distort the fitting or leave visible marks, leading to leaks or cosmetic damage.

Tongue-and-Groove Pliers (Channel Locks)

These pliers are used constantly on job sites because they lock into multiple positions and maintain a firm grip on irregular shapes.

Where are these Tongue & Groove Pliers Mostly Used?

Holding slip nuts while tightening traps
Adjusting pump fittings
Securing connectors in tight spaces
Clamping parts during disassembly

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Pro Tip: If you grip too close to the jaw tips, it reduces bite strength and increases the chance of slipping

Basin Wrench

A basin wrench solves one of the most frustrating plumbing challenges: reaching nuts tucked behind sinks. Its pivoting jaw grabs hard-to-reach hardware without forcing awkward hand positions.

Where do you use a basin wrench?

Installing or removing kitchen and bathroom faucets
Tightening mounting hardware in narrow sink cavities

Ratcheting Basin Wrench Heads vs. basic models:

Ratcheting heads speed up work in cramped spaces and are preferred by professionals
Basic fixed-head models work well for occasional home use

Strap Wrench

A strap wrench wraps around pipes or fittings without damaging their finish, making it the right choice for delicate or polished parts.

Strap Wrenches are best for:

Chrome traps
Decorative faucet bodies
Shower arms and extensions

Metal-to-metal contact from other wrenches can leave scratches that permanently mark fixtures. A strap wrench avoids this entirely while maintaining strong grip.

Cutting, Soldering & Pipe Preparation Plumbing Tools

Accurate pipe cutting and proper joint preparation are essential for preventing leaks. Even a slight angle or rough edge can stop fittings from seating correctly, weaken solder bonds, and create gaps that fail under pressure. Plumbing experts rely on specialized cutting and prep tools because they produce clean, uniform surfaces that support long-lasting, watertight joints.

Pipe Cutters (Copper, PVC, PEX)

Pipe cutters create smooth, square cuts that help fittings align correctly and ensure strong seals.

When to use which type of Pipe Cutters?

Copper pipe cutter: Best for copper tubing where soldered or compression joints require a precise cut.
PVC cutter: A ratcheting model prevents cracks and delivers straight cuts on PVC and CPVC.
PEX cutter: Ensures clean, straight cuts on flexible PEX for reliable crimp and expansion fittings.

How Clean Cuts Make plumbing jobs easier?

Benefit	Why It Matters
Smooth edges	Allows fittings to slide fully into place
Stronger joints	Ensures even solder distribution on copper
Less debris	Keeps plastic and metal shavings out of the line

Tubing Reamer / Deburring Tool

Deburring removes sharp inner and outer edges left behind after cutting.

How deburring prevents water leaks:

Smooth edges help fittings sit flush
Copper solder flows more evenly around a clean edge
Reduces interior turbulence caused by jagged pipe lips

Skipping this step is one of the most common causes of poor joint integrity.

Hacksaw

A hacksaw offers flexibility where pipe cutters cannot reach or when cutting through hardware.

The most common hacksaw uses:

Cutting metal pipes in tight or awkward spaces
Trimming brackets, bolts, and anchors
Removing rusted screws or hardware during repairs

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Tip: A fine-tooth blade creates cleaner cuts. Follow up with a deburring tool to refine the edges and improve joint fit.

Torch Kit (Propane or MAPP Gas)

A torch kit is essential for heating copper pipes so solder can flow into joints and form a watertight seal.

Basics of soldering copper pipes:

Clean pipe and fitting thoroughly
Apply flux to prep the metal surface
Heat the joint evenly - not the solder
Allow solder to flow naturally around the seam

Safety precautions to take while soldering:

Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
Ventilate the workspace to avoid fumes
Protect nearby materials with a heat shield pad
Avoid heating near plastic components without shielding

Heat Shield Pad

A heat shield pad protects nearby surfaces while soldering, especially in finished areas.

Which surfaces do Heat Shield Pads protect?

Wood framing
Drywall
Cabinets and trim
Flooring materials

Using a heat shield reduces fire risk and makes soldering safer in tight or enclosed spaces.

Drain Cleaning Tools for Clogs & Slow Drains

Drain issues are among the most common plumbing problems in homes. Having the right drain‑cleaning tools helps clear blockages safely without damaging fixtures or pipes. Each tool below serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one prevents unnecessary strain on drains and reduces the risk of repeated clogs.

Toilet Plunger (Flange or Accordion)

A toilet plunger is designed with a specialized shape that creates a tight seal inside the toilet drain. This helps generate the pressure needed to dislodge clogs deeper in the trap.

Why is Plunger's shape important?

Flange plungers have an extended rubber sleeve that fits securely into toilet openings.
Accordion plungers offer stronger suction and work well for tougher toilet clogs.

Keep toilet plungers separate from other plungers to avoid cross‑contamination.

Cup Plunger

A cup plunger is the standard style many people recognize, but it’s not designed for toilets. It forms a flat seal that works best on smooth, even surfaces.

Where should you use a cup plunger?

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Point to note: Cup plunger doesn’t work on toilets as the seal doesn’t fill the curved drain opening.

Handheld Drain Auger

A handheld drain auger is a flexible cable tool that reaches into drains to break apart clogs that a plunger can’t clear.

Where can handheld Drain Auger’s be used?

Slow or blocked bathroom sinks
Shower drains filled with hair
Light kitchen sink clogs

When a handheld drain auger works vs. when it doesn’t -

Situation	Works Well	Doesn’t Work
Hair buildup	✔
Soap or grease accumulation	✔
Deep mainline blockage		✘
Toilet clogs		✘ (use a toilet auger instead)

Power Drain Snake

A power drain snake uses a motorized cable to reach deeper into plumbing lines. It delivers consistent rotation and force, making it suitable for tougher or long‑running blockages.

Power Drain Snakes are best for:

Grease‑heavy kitchen line clogs
Long horizontal pipe runs
Recurring blockages in older plumbing systems

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Important note: These machines are powerful. Improper use can scratch porcelain or damage pipes, so they’re best for experienced DIYers or professionals.

Toilet Auger

A toilet auger is built specifically for toilets, with a curved guide tube and a rubber‑coated head to protect the porcelain surface.

Why plumbers rely on a Toilet Auger:

Clears deeper toilet clogs without risking bowl scratches
The protective head prevents scraping or chipping the toilet’s glaze
Reaches past the toilet trap where most plungers can’t

Always feed the auger gently and crank slowly. Forcing the cable can kink it and may push the clog deeper into the waste line.

Diagnostic Tools Every Plumber Should Have

To be able detect the accurate plumbing issue without any guessing games or demolition - a set of diagnostic tools are a must-have for plumbers. Take a look at the ones that must be in your plumbing bag.To accurately diagnose plumbing issues without resorting to guesswork or demolition, plumbers require a specific set of diagnostic tools. Here is a look at the essential tools that should be included in your plumbing kit.

Diagnostic Tool	What It Identifies / Detects	Where It’s Most Useful	Key Advantages
Plumbing Inspection Camera (Borescope)	Blockages, cracks, corrosion, joint separation, tree roots, rust buildup	Long drain lines, sewer inspections, behind fixtures, wall cavities	Allows visual inspection without opening walls; precise blockage location
Moisture Meter	Hidden leaks, moisture levels, dampness vs. condensation	Behind walls, under flooring, around showers, basements	Confirms leaks before demolition; helps distinguish plumbing vs. humidity issues
Pressure Gauge	Low/high water pressure, pressure drops, valve issues	Whole-house pressure checks, regulator testing, leak diagnostics	Protects fixtures from high pressure; pinpoints pressure-related problems
Gas Leak Detector	Natural gas or propane leaks	Water heaters, furnaces, gas line inspections, older homes	Detects hazardous gas levels early; essential for safety during installations or inspections
Thermal Imaging Camera	Temperature changes, slab leaks, hidden moisture, line tracing	Floors, walls, ceilings, pipe locating, insulation checks	Non-invasive diagnostics; helps locate leaks or heat loss without removing materials

These tools allow plumbers to diagnose issues accurately and safely, reducing unnecessary repairs and preventing long-term damage.

Power Tools Used in Plumbing Jobs

Modern plumbing, a mix of skill and technology, requires power tools for professional efficiency. These tools are crucial for challenging tasks that demand superior cutting strength, high-precision drilling, and rapid material removal, which manual tools cannot achieve as effectively or quickly.

Power Tool	Primary Plumbing Applications	Necessity in Plumbing
Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall)	Cutting through various pipe materials (PVC, copper, cast iron), demo work, and accessing confined spaces.	Provides the heavy-duty cutting strength required for swift demolition and disassembly of existing piping, particularly robust materials like cast iron or thick-walled plastic, offering versatility unmatched by manual saws.
Hammer Drill/Rotary Hammer	Drilling anchor holes into concrete, brick, or masonry for pipe supports and fixtures; creating precise openings for pipe runs through walls and floors.	Essential for precision drilling into hard materials. A hammer drill's percussive action allows for rapid penetration of concrete and stone, which is vital for new construction and renovation where structural anchoring is mandatory.
Cordless Drill/Driver	Driving screws for pipe clamps and hangers, assembling drain fittings, drilling smaller diameter holes in wood and drywall for pipe passage, and opening access panels.	Offers unmatched versatility and mobility. It's crucial for the high-speed and repetitive task of securing fixtures and supports, dramatically increasing installation speed and reducing physical strain.
Angle Grinder	Cutting metal pipes (e.g., steel or iron) cleanly, smoothing rough edges, and removing rust or old solder from components before welding or joining.	Provides the high-speed rotational force necessary for aggressive material removal and precise metal cutting. It is critical for altering or prepping metallic pipes that require clean, smooth cuts for secure joint assembly.
Power Threader	Cutting precise, tapered threads onto the end of steel pipe for secure, leak-proof connections.	Indispensable for commercial and industrial plumbing involving black iron or galvanized steel pipe. It ensures the necessary precision and consistency for pipe threads that must withstand high pressures and strict codes.

These power tools are not merely conveniences; they are integral to meeting the industry's demands for speed, accuracy, and adherence to stringent building codes. They enable the modern plumber to execute complex tasks with professional quality and efficiency.

Consumables Every Plumber Needs in Their Tool Bag

Consumables are materials that get used up during repairs and installations. Even though they’re small, they play a major role in preventing leaks, ensuring tight seals, and keeping fixtures secure. Using poor‑quality consumables often leads to repeat failures, loose joints, weeping leaks, foul odors, or fittings that loosen over time. Reliable materials help create long‑lasting seals and reduce callbacks.

Teflon Tape (Thread Seal Tape): Used on threaded pipe connections for a watertight seal (e.g., shower arms, faucets, gas joints). Quality is key to prevent tearing, uneven application, and leaks.
Plumber’s Putty: Creates flexible, watertight seals around fixtures (e.g., sink strainers, faucet bases). Low-grade options can dry out, crack, or shrink, leading to leaks.
PVC Cement + Primer: Primer cleans and softens PVC pipe surfaces; cement permanently bonds them. Essential for PVC/CPVC plumbing and drainage. Weak bonding can lead to joint separation and difficult-to-repair leaks.
Solder & Flux: Essential for copper pipe installations. Flux cleans the surface; solder melts to form a solid, watertight seal. Inferior materials can result in uneven flow or weakened bonds.
Silicone Sealant: Waterproofs around plumbing fixtures (e.g., sinks, showers, exterior penetrations). Cheaper alternatives lose elasticity, allowing water penetration and potential mold/damage.
O‑Ring / Gasket Assortment Kits: Create vital seals within faucets, valves, and traps, primarily for quick repair of drips. Poor quality leads to failure due to cracking, poor sealing under pressure, or improper sizing.

Safety Gear for Plumbing Work

Plumbing, especially without the right gear, is risky. You might end up with burns, nasty debris, harsh fumes, and just plain strain. It is absolutely essential that you choose the right plumbing gear for every plumbing job.

We've put together a quick table to make it super easy to see what you need and when you should use it.

Gear You Need	What It's For	When You'll Use It	Why It's a Lifesaver
Safety Glasses / Goggles	Keeps your eyes safe from stray bits, shavings, and splashes.	Cutting pipe, drilling, clearing drains, or working overhead.	Stops eye injuries and protects your eyes from chemicals and solder smoke.
Heat-Resistant Gloves	Protects your hands from getting burned and touching hot stuff.	Soldering copper pipes, using a torch, or handling fittings that have been heated up.	Gives you a better grip on hot metal and hugely lowers the risk of burns.
Knee Pads	Takes the pressure off your knees and joints.	Fixing things under sinks, installing toilets, or crawling into tight spaces.	Keeps you comfortable during long jobs and shields your knees from rough floors.
Headlamp	Gives you light without having to hold a flashlight.	Under cabinets, in crawl spaces, near basement pipes, or any dark area.	Direct, focused light; leaves both your hands free to work with tools.
Respirator Mask	Filters out bad particles, gases, and dangerous fumes.	Using strong drain chemicals, soldering in small rooms, or dealing with sewage/mold.	Protects your lungs from fumes, bacteria, and anything else floating in the air.

If you pick the right safety gear and use it smartly, you'll seriously cut down on injuries and make those long, tough plumbing jobs much safer and way more manageable.

How to Pick the Best Plumbing Tools?

Picking out your plumbing tools with a little thought is a smart move. It means your tools will work better, you’ll make fewer screw-ups, and they’ll last way longer. The right materials and design make a huge difference in how safe, accurate, and durable your work will be. Here's a casual guide on what plumbers (and even us homeowners!) should look for when putting together a solid toolbox.

Don't Skimp on Material Quality

The metal your tool is made from really determines how well it performs.

Look for these tough materials:

Chrome vanadium steel: Super strong and durable - perfect for wrenches and pliers.
Forged steel: This is extra tough and resists wearing out.
Heat-treated alloys: They’re specially hardened so they won’t bend or break under pressure.

Choosing tools made with these materials helps you keep a strong grip and means they won't warp or crack easily.

Grip and How It Feels in Your Hand (Ergonomics)

Comfort is a big deal, especially when you're on a long job, squeezed into a tight spot, or really need to twist something hard.

Key features you want:

Handles with non-slip rubber grips.
Contoured shapes that fit naturally in your hand.
Tools that feel balanced to keep your wrist from getting tired.

Ergonomic tools mean you can be more precise and you won't strain yourself doing the same motion over and over.

Keep the Rust Away (Corrosion Resistance)

Plumbing tools are always getting wet, covered in metal bits, and exposed to chemicals. Coatings that fight rust and corrosion are essential for a long lifespan and consistent performance.

Recommended finishes for Corrosion-free fittings:

Nickel-chrome plating
Black oxide coating
Rust-resistant alloys

Protecting your tools from corrosion stops them from getting pitted, worn down, and slippery.

Check the Warranty

A solid warranty basically says the manufacturer believes in their product.

Why does a good warranty matter?

It protects you from defects right out of the factory.
It gives you peace of mind about the tool's long-term reliability.
It saves you money on replacing your most-used tools.

Try to find a lifetime warranty on basic hand tools and at least a strong multi-year one on anything powered.

Stick with Reliable Brands

Some companies just consistently make better, more durable tools than others.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a plumbing supply brand:

Do they have a good reputation for quality and precision?
Can you easily get replacement parts if something breaks?
Do they offer decent customer support?

Using tools from trusted brands helps ensure you get consistent, good results on every project. DK Hardware lists the top global brands for you to have the best-quality plumbing tools installed!

Homeowner Tools vs. Pro Tools

Everyone has different needs. Picking the right type of tool prevents you from overpaying or getting something that's not up to the job.

User Type	What to Buy	Why
Homeowners	Mid-grade tools for occasional fixes.	They're affordable and tough enough for light, infrequent use.
DIY Enthusiasts	Higher-grade tools, especially ones with comfortable grips.	They'll hold up to frequent use without falling apart.
Professional Plumbers	Heavy-duty, high-torque tools made from the best materials.	They're built for daily abuse, high precision, and maximum lifespan.

Conclusion

The right tool is the difference between a quick, professional fix and a frustrating, leaky mistake. Whether you are a homeowner tackling your first clog or a seasoned professional overhauling a commercial system, investing in quality, purpose-built equipment pays dividends in safety, efficiency, and the longevity of your work.. For everything from basic wrench sets to professional diagnostic cameras and high-grade consumables, trust reliable sources to equip your next project. DK Hardware is dedicated to providing the high-quality, professional-grade plumbing tools and supplies that ensure your work - and your water systems - last.