GENERAL SAFERY RULES.

PERSONAL PLUMBING SAFETY TIPS

1. Prepare for the Job

There is no shortage of cliches about preparation so we won’t attempt to create a new one here. But
preparing for a plumbing job means looking up the appropriate plumbing and building codes to know
what the job entails. Be sure to practice the skills needed – like soldering – before going to the job if
you’re rusty. The reality of awkward positions is often more difficult than theory, so be prepared.

2. Protect Your Eyes

Most good safety articles bring up the eyes fairly quickly. It’s also one of our key plumbing safety
tips. Plumbers need their eyes to get the job done. Put on some protective eyewear that won’t fog and
leave it on. If you put eyewear on top of your head, it’s easy to forget you’re unprotected.

3. Protect Your Ears

There are plenty of sharp, loud noises on a plumbing jobsite. Over time, these noises take a toll on a
plumber’s hearing if ears are unprotected.
4. Cover Your Arms and Hands

Long sleeves protect against burrs and other cut hazards. Some Pros don’t care for gloves, at least
during some of the job, because gloves can impede dexterity. But gloves play an important role in
preventing infection. As such, they remain a key piece of safety equipment when plumbers come into
contact with waste, hazardous industrial chemicals, and mold.

5. Protect Your Feet

Shoes may not seem like an obvious inclusion in an article about plumbing safety tips. However,
walking is inherently more dangerous around puddles. Slip-resistant boots protect the feet and also the
whole person from falls.
6. Wear Nose mask

Gloves protect skin from mold but perhaps a greater danger is mold inhalation. Masks protect a
plumber’s lungs from mold and dangerous fumes.

7. Watch and Look Out for Your Head

A hard hat won’t always be necessary on a plumbing job, but it’s a good idea to have one handy.
Plumbers wear them more often on industrial and new construction jobs.

8. Extreme Temperatures

This is no place to be a hero. Plumbers can protect themselves with appropriate workwear, hydration,
and common sense.

9. Gas Lines and Power Off

Water, electricity, and combustibles don’t mix. If a plumber smells gas, it’s time to evacuate until the
source is found and safety returns.

10. Use the Right Tools

Our plumbing safety tips wouldn’t be complete without talking about using the right tools. Every
tradesman knows the value of the right tool. It makes the job easier, faster, and safer. Part of
preparation is anticipating what tools might be needed.
11. Have Emergency Contact Information Handy

The Pros know who to call for all of the systems they contact – gas company, electric company,
building supervisor, and homeowner.

12. Ensure there is enough lighting

As a plumber, ensure that you work in an environment with enough lighting. In case you are working
in a room, lights should be turned on, windows and doors should be wide open and curtains folded.

WORKSHOP RULES
1. No more than 50 students are permitted to work in the shop at one time.
2. Ensure shop is clean before beginning work.
3. Clean up after yourselves.  
1. Place tools back in proper location before leaving shop.
2. Promptly clean up liquid spills.
3. Dispose of scraps and sawdust.  Brooms and shop-vac are provided.
4. Do not remove any tools or equipment from the shop.  There are supplies you may
check out from the check-out cabinet at the EPICS front desk.
5. Close the door and ensure it’s locked.
4. Refer to Shop Safety Rules to avoid injuries. But, in case of injuries:
1. First aid kit is available by the bathroom.
 2. If debris gets in eyes, wash thoroughly in eye wash station for at least 15 minutes.  If
problem persists get professional help.
3. Call 911 in the case of a serious injury.
5. Keep walkways and workspaces stable and clear.  No extension cords across walkways, or
tools balanced precariously on the edge of tables or shelves
6. Read the product safety data sheet / instructions before using potentially toxic materials
such as chemicals, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or insulation.
7. Place any broken tool, blade, drill bit, etc. in the broken tools bin.
8. Use tools and machines only for their intended purpose.  If unsure, ask.  
9. Storage of projects is limited to those that are labeled with the owner’s name, email, and the
date.  Please remove your project when the class is complete.  Abandoned items will be
recycled.

Marking out tools

a) Tape measure: - Is used for measuring straight lines and setting out work. Usually graduated in mm
and cm length and inches.

Figure

b) Pencil: - Is used for marking and setting out lines on the prepared timber. It should be used an HB
or H pencil as it keeps a sharp edge for longer periods. A soft pencil gets blunt quickly.
 Figure

c) Try square:

- These are made either all metal or with a wooden stock and metal blade. They are supplied with
blades ranging from 100 mm to 450 mm in length and are used for either squaring lines across the
face or edge of timber, for testing the squareness of the edge from the face, and for testing the flatness
of the timber surface.

Figure

- Trueness of the trysquare: Care should be taken exercised when testing it. The test is - place the
stock against the straight edge of a piece of wood and mark a fine line against the edge of the blade;
then reverse the stock, and if the edge of the blade coincides with the line, the square is true; if not,
half the difference will be the amount of the error. Both edges of the blade should be tested and if
necessary corrected by filing.
 Figure

d) Combination Try Square: - It is a tool that combines four marking-out tools in one. It has a slotted
blade passing through a stock which gives a right angle on one side and a mitre angle on the other.
Attached to the stock is a small spirit level for testing level and uprightness. Because of the adjustable
stock it is possible to use it as a marking gauge.

Figure

e) Sliding Bevel: - The sliding bevel can be set to any angle other than a right angle. These can be
obtained with either a wood or metal stock, with a sliding blade from 150 mm to 300 mm length
which is fixed, in the case of a wooden stock by a screw or lever nut, and in the case of a metal stock
by a blade clamping screw which runs down the centre of the stock.

Figure
PIPE AND TUBING TOOLS
The complete selection of pipe and tube manipulation equipment from Ridgid. Here you'll find
everything you need to thread, cut and bend pipe quickly and efficiently. Shop from bending and
forming tools, drilling and tapping tools, pipe/tube cutting and preparation, threading machines,
wrenches, pipe stands, pipe vises, roll grooving, shut-off tools, tube repair and joining, and valve tools
and keys.

Bending and Forming Bevelling Drilling and Tapping Pipe/Tube Cutting &
Preparation

Pipe Stands Pipe Vises Roll Grooving

Shut-Off Tools Threading Tube Repair and Joining

 Valve Tools and Keys

Fastening tools
Being prepared for a plumbing job and having the right tools is crucial for the success of any project.
From a plumber’s torch to plumber’s putty, these tools will help you handle any plumbing problem.
This list is a great resource for any tools and gadgets that are needed for any professional plumber.
 
Plungers
If we are talking basic plumbing tools, no hand tool beats a plunger. Most homeowners should own a
plunger, but it is also one of the number one items on a plumbing tools list. It is essential a plumber
should carry one. Plumbers should be equipped with the specific plunger that will be the right fit for
each job.
 
1. Cup Plunger
The most common plunger is the cup plunger. It is used for unclogging showers, sinks, and bathtubs
by putting a rubber cap over the drain.
 
2. Flange Plunger
A flange plunger is a plunger specifically made for unclogging toilets. It is a cup plunger that has a
soft rubber flap designed to fit snugly into the hole of the toilet to seal well for optimal pressure.
Certain flange plungers can fold and be used as cup plungers as well.
 
Pliers
Pliers allow for the tightening and loosening of nuts and bolts in smaller and harder to reach places.
This tool can come in handy when a wrench doesn’t fit in the space you need to contact.
 By Kai Beercrafter
3. Channel Locks
Channel locks, or tongue and groove pliers, are pliers with adjustable jaws that can lock into place
depending on the size you need them to be. They are often used when you need two pliers of the same
size, or when you must hold one pipe with pliers and unscrew the second pipe with the other.
 
4. Slip Joint Pliers
Slip joint pliers are also known as water pump pliers or groove pliers. These are often used for
gripping other tools because they have a slot in the head that slides up and down and adjusts to the
width you need.
 
5. Drain Snake
When the plunger isn’t clearing the clog, using a snake is the next step. A snake is a motorized device
with a cable that is fed down a pipe in a circular motion to clear any obstructions in the
pipeline. Drain snakes usually clear smaller lines, generally 1-1/4″ -2″.

6. Drain Auger
A drain auger functions the same way a snake does, but it is used to clear more extensive lines,
usually 1-1/2″ -3″. You can also get a hand auger, which functions the same way, but is handheld. 
 
Wrenches
Wrenches come in all shapes and sizes and are used for various jobs. It is essential to make sure that
you have the proper wrench, or pipe wrenches, for each project. This is an important item to have on
your own plumbing tools list. 
 By Stasique
7. Adjustable Pipe Wrench
Pipe Wrenches are designed to grip pipes tightly with their sharp teeth. This adjustable wrench is
usually only used on heavy-duty fixtures such as galvanized steel or iron, for they will leave teeth
marks on smaller, shiny pipes.
 
8. Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is a specialized tool used specifically for work on faucets. It is a specialized wrench
that is able to fit into tight spaces. It is designed to be T-shaped and has a clamp-like mechanism so it
can reach behind the basin of a sink to install or remove the valve.
 
9. Faucet Valve-Seat Wrench
When a seal has dried up and cracked, leaks occur in any item that uses water lines, such as radiators
or sinks. Once the old seal has been removed, a faucet valve-seat wrench is a proper tool to use to
help install a new seal.
 
10. Faucet Keys
Faucet keys aren’t necessarily a type of wrench, but they are a necessary tool needed to open and
close spigots and sillcocks. They are small, X-shaped tool with different stem fittings of various sizes.
 
11. Allen Wrench
 An Allen wrench is a small L-shaped wrench that comes in many different sizes. The hexagonal
heads are used with many plumbing fasteners, so it is essential to get an assortment of sizes to be fully
prepared.
 
12. Stubby Screwdriver
A stubby screwdriver is a small screwdriver used for screws in small spaces when a drill or normal-
sized screwdriver cannot reach.
 

13. Plumber’s Tape (Thread Sealing Tape)

Plumber’s tape , also known as thread sealing tape, it the thin tape wrapped around the threads on
pipes and fittings before they are put together. It is utilized to prevent possible leaks at the joints. A
good quality plumber’s tape will be able to withstand high and low temperatures, as well as stretch to
better fit each pipe end.
 
Saws and Cutters
Saws and different cutting tools are important to have on the job site. Pipes may need to be resized
and cut, holes need to be made to fit plumbing, and sometimes old rusty fixtures need to be cut open.
 

By JooFotia
14. Hacksaw
Frequently, pipes and tubing get rusty, or you cannot remove old nuts and bolts, and you need a tool
to take them apart. A hacksaw will come in handy when removing a variety of hardware such as old
pipes, nuts, bolts, and screws. It is essential to secure the blade tightly, and to keep extra blades, to be
properly prepared
 
15. Hole Saw
A hole saw is simply a saw used to cut holes in flooring or walls to run plumbing piping through.
 
16. Tube and Plastic Pipe Cutters
As a plumber, you will frequently need to deal with copper or plastic pipes, and there will be times
when you need to remove and replace them. The pipe cutters, or tubing cutters, are used by clamping
onto the pipe and rotating it entirely around the pipe. Each couple of rotations, the tubing cutters
should be tightened, and as a result, the tube will be cut all the way through.
 
17. Borescope
Borescopes are small cameras attached to a long, flexible cable. They meant to be inserted far down
drains and supply lines to give plumbers a look at anything obstructing the pipe, or the condition of
the pipe they are inspecting. Borescopes are now standard on a plumbing tools list, for they allow
professionals to gather more information about what they are working with.
 
18. Washers and O-Rings
Washers and O-rings work to keep seals tight and prevent leaks from occurring. When they get old,
they dry up and crack, so it is crucial to remove the old ones and replace them with newer ones.
Washers and O-rings come in all different sizes, so for you to get the proper seal, you must have the
appropriate size.
 
19. Pipe Bender
A pipe bender is a tool used to bend pipes into various shapes to fit into the space that they are going
to be installed. It can be used to bend pipes around corners or shape a pipe to replicate an old existing
pipe that needs to be replaced.
 
20. Metal File
Metal files are a great tool to have on hand when cutting pipes. A metal file is used to smooth down
any rough edges once the pipe is cut. This can be used on all types of pipes, whether they are plastic
pipes or metal. 
 By igor moskalenko
21. Plumber’s Torch
Copper pipes are sealed using solder, and in order for the solder to melt, you must use heat. A
plumber’s torch is a small, handheld torch used to seal pipes by melting the solder to hold the copper
pipes together. The torch works by applying a very intense heat in specific and precise areas to seal up
new or replaced copper piping.
 
22. Business Software
As times are changing, more and more contractors are switching over to software  to manage and
keep a record of all payments, labor hours, and estimates. Keeping records through software allows
you to have all the information necessary at your fingertips, wherever you go.
 
Safety
Finally, some of the most critical tools on a plumbing tools list are safety tools. A plumber should
always have protective tools to stay safe on the job site.
 By Ljupco Smokovski
 
 
23. Goggles
In the plumbing business, things can get messy when dealing with a plumbing problem. Many tasks
that plumbers must do involve dangers to the eyes, such as carefully inspecting leaks or soldering
pipes together. A good plumber values his or her safety, so wearing goggles while on the job is
crucial.
 
24. Gloves
It is not shocking that plumbers must deal with many situations where they would not want to be
using their bare hands. Having a good set of gloves handy will protect your hands and help you to
keep a better grip when pipes are wet.
 
25. Heat Shields
As mentioned before, soldering can be a large part of a plumber’s job. If that is the case, having the
proper protection is vital to keep you and the homeowner’s property safe. There are many heat shields
available that function to prevent heat damage on the property and any fires from occurring.
 Wrenches

PLUMBING TOOLS

CATEGORIES TOOLS BASIC USE

MEASURING AND LAY- Tapes Used to measure linear dimensions of pipes and objects
OUT TOOLS

Rules Used to outline a short straight line or

a shape with straight edges on an object, pipe or wall.

Squares Used for making perfectly square shaped cuts,

marks, etc. on woods, pipes, and walls.

ALIGNMENT TOOLS Plumber’s level Used for checking elevations and

measuring horizontal levels and slopes.

Plumb bulb Used for accurate uniformity and vertical levels in

the construction of walls, frames, etc. plumb bobs are genera

 used as backups to levels.

Chalk line They are used to create lines, directions and

boundaries to be utilized during work.

Dividers and Used to draw arcs and circles using a pencil.

compass

ASSEMBLY TOOLS Wrenches used for screwing up and loosening valves,

geysers, pipes, bolts and nuts etc.

Spanners Used for loosening and tightening bolts and nuts

Soldering Used to combine thermo-plastic pipes using heat

machine

CUTTING TOOLS Hack saw Used for generally cutting plastic pipes.

Jab saw Used to cut through small diameter of pipes; mostly plastic

Compass saw Used to cut through larger diameters of objects/ pipes

Saber saw Used to cut through soft materials.

Reciprocating saw Used to cut thicker materials than wood

Files Used for shaping metals, woods or any other materials in plum

Grinding machine Used to cut off unwanted or needed dimensions of materials; h

soft.

Wooden chisel Used for making long narrow openings and

 cuts for pipes mostly on a wooden surface.

Pipe cutters Used for cutting PVC, CPVC and burnished pipes.

Soil pipe cutter Used to cut soil pipes.

Internal pipe Used for cutting plastic pipes or copper pipes.

cutter

PIPE BENDING TOOLS Pipe bending Used for bending and turning pipes
machine

Threaded die Used to create thread on pipes and metals.

DRILLING AND BORING Portable electric Used to create holes or openings within soft and hard materials
TOOLS drills namely;

word, plastic pipes etc.

Rotary hammer Used to create large drilled holes in concrete and masonry wall
drills

Diamond core Used for cutting through reinforced concrete and rebar.
drilling equipment

Jack hammer Used for breaking concrete obstructions, or creating holes thro
concrete walls/ platforms

HOLDING PLUMBING Bench vice Used to hold pipes and solid objects firmly in place
TOOLS
Pipe vice Used to hold pipes firmly place during threading, cutting, assem
and disassembly
TESTING TOOLS Pressure buckets Used for testing lengths of pipelines,

mainly plastic supply pipes for leakages.

EXTRAS Hammer Used in driving, shaping and breaking applications

Carpenter’s Used for driving nails, striking the head of a wooden

hammer
chisel and pulling out nails where you don’t want them.

Screw driver Used for turning slotted screws into threaded holes.

Pliers Used for cutting, twisting, disassembly and

assembly operations.

Trowel Used for plastering, spreading and

smoothing mortar on a surface.

Spade Used for digging or cutting sand, turf, etc.

Shovel Although wider that spades, they used for digging.

Pick-axe Used for digging areas encrusted with

solid objects underneath soil

Mortar pan / head Used to hold or carry cement, water, sand or mortar
pan

Hangers Used to supports or hold pipes

Wheel barrow Used for moving and carrying materials from one place to
 another

Plunger Used to clear drains and clogged toilets

Plumber’s snake Used instead of a plunger in drain pipes and toilet that cannot b
unclogged using the plunger

1. MEASURING AND LAYOUT TOOLS

Measuring tools are generally used to measure heights, diameters, lengths of pipes, appliances etc. On
the other hand, if you wanted to create marks on an object, make accurate lines, even a circle or take
accurate measurements of your pipes or work area; layout tools is what you use.

Examples of measuring and layout tools include;

 TAPES

Use; Tapes are used to measure linear dimensions when and where it is required; they may be used to
measure circular dimensions but it’s not the most ideal practice to do so; as accurate values will not be
acquired.

Maintenance/ Precautions;

 Avoid keeping them exposed to excess moisture or sunlight

 Avoid entry of tiny particles; such as sand or soil
 Avoid excessive bending of tape especially if dealing with steel tapes
  RULES

We have steeled rules and also folding wood rules.

Use;

 Also a measuring tool, rules are used in plumbing to fathom a straight line especially
when outline a piping route for supply line about to the passed through the wall. The
usefulness may play out in unconventional circumstances but they do come in handy
quite often.

Maintenance/ Precautions;

 Steel or any form of metallic alloy reacts to extreme temperatures and climate, like
the steel tape, avoid excess exposure to the climate as it affect the dimensions of the
steel rule by expanding it ( if we’re considering heat).
 Avoid contacting rule with chemical, as they may wipe away the readings
 Avoid leaving them bare and keep the edges away from damage or any sort of
deformity.
 Avoid recklessly dropping rules like the steeled tape plumber’s rule to prevent errors
in measurements.

 SQUARES
There are three common squares out there; the try square, combination square, and the framing
square.

Try squares are used for marking or taking measurements on woods or pipes. Framing squares on the
other hand are used for squaring, and marking cuts or holes on a wall. While combination squares are
used for marking cuts on both wood and metals.

Popular marking tools used in plumbing are yellow keel and soapstone. The first is wax-based and
used mostly on galvanized or black pipes. The latter is a soft stone that occurs naturally. It is cut into
thin strips and used to make marks on cast, galvanized and black pipes.

Use;

 They are basically used for making perfectly square shaped cuts, marks, etc. on
woods, pipes, and walls.

Maintenance/ Precautions;

 They are typically made of steel, plastic and wood; having them kept safe mostly in
shaded environments is best for keeping it at its best form.
 Avoid using them for tasks outside their normal functions.

                     

2. ALIGNMENT TOOLS

Because alignment of plumbing equipment is very important especially when installing a drain pipe,
the importance of alignment tools in a plumber’s toolbox cannot be overlooked. If you are a DIYer or
a plumber, these are must have tools.

The vertical (plumb) and horizontal (level) of plumbing materials are very important and should be
checked properly before finishing an operation.

PLUMBER’S LEVEL
A level is generally used to check the linear position of plumbing fixtures. Levels have vials which
are used to determine accurate linear positions.

A general rule for a well vertically position fixture is: when the bubble in the horizontal vial is in a
center position, the object it is used on is perfectly horizontal on that surface, at least almost perfect.

Laser, torpedo, builder’s and electronic levels are popular levels used by plumbers. Laser levels are
used to perform a wide variety of alignment and layout tasks. Electronic levels are good for measuring
slopes. They can also be used for horizontal and vertical alignments.

Use;

 Builder’s level is used for checking elevations and measuring horizontal levels and
slopes.

Maintenance/ Precautions;

 A plumber’s level is a delicate tool; using it requires proper care and the abstinence
from using it as an impact tool; it will disrupt the alignment of the vial
 Avoid placing them recklessly around the work area or surrounding.

PLUMB BOB
For accurate uniformity and vertical levels in the construction of walls, frames, etc. plumb bobs are
generally used as backups to levels.

CHALK LINE

Making a straight line on relatively flat surface can be hard especially with hands. In this case, chalk
lines come in handy. They are used for making straight lines on flat surfaces. These straight lines are
made with the help of a taut long string that has been dipped in a dye. The string when stretched to the
required end on the other side of surface of the flat material is pulled up and released, making a
tapping sound on the flat surface, in turn creating a straight line boldly stamped on the face of the flat
surface.

Use;

 They are used to create lines, directions and boundaries to be utilized during work.
 Chalk lines can also be used on surfaces that are not smooth or irregular in shape. A
good example is walls that have studs on them.

Maintenance/ Precautions;

 Avoid placing them in wet spots or surroundings

 Cutting or reducing the length of the line is not advised.

DIVIDERS AND COMPASSES

If you are keen on dividing the surface of any material into two equal parts, a divider is great asset.
It is particularly used on wood and very good on hardened materials like metal.

Use;

 Compasses are used to draw arcs and circles using a pencil.

 Dividers are also used to scratch or inscribe on the surface of a material.

Maintenance;

 Having them kept in a secluded container/ space is best advised to prevent damage to
the tool and injury to the user.
 Using dividers as a pencil-like object; to frequently use as a writing material is not
ideal. It is only required for mild marks.

3. ASSEMBLING TOOLS

You won’t get a good grip of your pipes when making a hole or trying to get a fine cut or even
making threads on a steel pipes when they are not tightly held.

Holding and assembling tools will ensure your pipes and other plumbing fixtures are in place when
operating on them. If you ever want to add any to your plumbing toolbox as a home owner wrenches,
and spanners are good options.

 
WRENCHES

If you are going to be nutting, twisting, turning, fitting and fastening pipes in place, the wrench is an
indispensable plumbing and fitting tool; hence, small tasks like unscrewing a copper nut couldn’t be
done with hands. Wrenches come in varying designs. Some have jagged teeth and others are flat out.
If you are going to turn a pipe without searing a mark on it then flat out wrenches are the best option.
Unless you want to grip a nut and have it turned then the later will come in handy.

Some are toothless and others have jagged teeth for strong grips especially for easy grips of bolts and
nuts when turning and unscrewing.

Wrenches serve different purposes in plumbing. Understanding the type of wrench to be used for a
particular plumbing fixture is important.

 Adjustable wrench

Adjustable wrenches are used to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts. A typical adjustable wrench has two
chiseled jaws. The upper is fixed and rigid while the lower’s adjustable and replaceable, with a worm
screw that helps it slide in the body of the fixed jaw.

Use;

 They can be used on regular or odd sized nuts and bolts; for loosening and tightening
 The adjustable wrench can also be used for screwing up and loosening valves,
geysers, pipes, etc.

 
Pipe wrench

Pipe wrenches like adjustable wrench have toothed jaws for gripping pipes. The teeth in each jaw help
to hold the pipes in place when turning and tightening them during assembly. Pipe wrenches come in
three basic designs. They are straight, end and offset. Straight ends pipe wrench are popularly used by
plumbers. The others are used at a very uncomfortable position. Pipe wrenches have adjustable upper
jaws. The width of the pipe is used to determine the gap between both jaws.

The teeth of a pipe wrench can wear off overtime causing less powerful grips but, using a triangular
file to sharpen and clean the teeth will ensure steady grips on pipes. The pipe wrench is turned anti-
clockwise when loosening a pipe, while it is turned clock-wise when wrenching the pipe.

Use;

 Typically, they are used to assemble and disassemble threaded pipes, by holding and
intertwining them together

Chain Wrench

Chain wrenches are used for gripping and rotating pipes. They require less space than a pipe wrench
and does not leave teeth marks on pipes like the pipe wrench does. Chain wrenches apply even
pressure around gripped areas on the pipes which makes them a good alternative as this wouldn’t hurt
the structure of the pipes.

Use;

 Chain wrenches are used for gripping and rotating pipes that have width that’s more
than 2 inches.

Basin Wrench

Can’t get your typical, traditional wrench under that sink or countertop with drain pipes jumbled up
against each other in your RV or cramped cabin?
Tasks that a normal wrench should do with a breeze especially when unscrewing a nut under a sink
are trumped easily with a basin wrench. They are also applied on nuts used to fastened faucets to an
entire sink layout. Like your conventional wrench, basin wrenches have a rigid jaw and an adjustable
one.

For nuts made out of plastics, the plastic nut basin wrenches are used.

Use;

 Basin wrenches are used for confined spaces so as to turn fasteners that are difficult
to reach with the use of the conventional plumber’s wrench.

Strap Wrench

Strap Wrenches are used on chrome-plated pipes or any finished pipe to avoid spoiling the decorative
appearances of the pipes.

Monkey Wrench

The monkey wrench is quite striking at a distant glance because it borrows the same structure as a
pipe wrench. A closer look up and you could immediately tell the difference between them. The
monkey wrench has smooth teethed jaws unlike the roughed and jagged ones on the pipe wrench.

Use;

 Monkey wrenches are used on pipes, plumbing fixtures that have six-sided or square
shaped shoulders.

 
How to maintain your wrenches (All types) / Precautions

 Pipe wrenches are commonly be made from steel or aluminum amongst others; hence
they can be prone to rust. Avoid contacts with harsh chemicals and keep them away
from other rusting metals.
 When rusted, applying the use of a steel brush or aluminum foil to clear off rust is
vital in stopping the degrading process.
 Wash with soap and have them dried out after use to prevent the entry and piling of
dust between the joints.
 Apply lubricants when joints seem stiff, and avoid forcing them as much as you can.
 Avoid moving the wrench unnecessarily or recklessly when attached to an object (a
nut or a pipe). They in turn may wear out the teeth making them less effective in
future.

SPANNERS

Spanners are essential plumbing tools used for tightening and loosing bolts and nuts of varying
standardized sizes. You could say spanners are like wrenches. Although both the wrench and spanner
have jaws for gripping nuts and bolts, the standout characteristic here of a spanner is that it’s non-
adjustable and therefore come only in sets. The fixed jaws on the open end and box end spanners give
a firmer grip and hold on pipes than the monkey wrench.
Commonly used spanners in plumbing are:

Open End Spanners

Like the name, open end spanners have open jaws jutting out at either ends of their stretched, polished
body. They are used for screwing up or loosening nuts and bolts with square or hexagonal sides.

Ring Spanners

Ring spanners have circular rings at either ends of it burnished body.

Combination Spanners

Combination spanners give you the luxury of having an open end with jaws on one side and a closed
ring end on the other.

Bi-hexagonal Spanners

Bi hexagonal spanners are specially designed as double-headed and single pieced spanners. They have
troughs or peaks that grip the faces of nuts and bolts.

Use (All types);

 Spanners have a basic function of loosening and tightening bolts and nuts

How to maintain your spanners (All types) / Precautions

 Use appropriate sizes for functions; neither bigger nor smaller

 Avoid placing them recklessly around the work space, they should be in a separate
containment when not used
 Avoid contact with electricity, heated objects or harsh chemicals.

PLASTIC PIPE SOLDERING MACHINE

Speaking of assembly tools, soldering machines are used to combine plastic pipes mostly PPR pipes.
The soldering effect with the use of heat melts the pipes at the joints; and combines them while they
are still melted. The plastic polymers then solidify together as one.
Use;

 A soldering machine is used to combine thermo-plastic pipes using heat as its means
 They are used to combine and assemble pipes with regards to design made by
plumber.

Maintenance;

 Soldering machine are special tools that utilize electricity to function; ensure plugs
are fully connected to avoid partial contact or damage to circuit.
 After use, residue of the melted pipe may tend to stay on the equipment, use a small
wooden piece to clear plastic residue before they solidify.
 Avoid plugging machine to low current as they mostly require high voltage to
function.

4. CUTTING TOOLS

These tools are primarily used for shaping and cutting through material like wood, metal and plastic
pipes etc. Commonly used cutting tools are listed below.

 HACKSAWS

It is hard not to find the hacksaw in a plumber’s toolbox. it is a very vital tool. As a homeowner, we
recommend getting one.

For simple cutting tasks at home, the hand-operated or manual handsaw can be the most efficient if
you are going to be cutting through a few numbers of pipes

When using a hacksaw, avoid using large teeth on thinner surfaces or you risk catching the blade
against the hard surface in turn causing the teeth to break off. Using larger teeth for thinner surfaces
also shortens the length of the pipe and creates a rough looking cut edge.

Generally, blades with 32 teeth-per-inch are perfect fits for tubings, while those with 24 teeth-per-inch
are rather used on galvanized pipes.
Use;

 Hacksaws are used for cutting pipes. They can be used to cut PVC, ABS, CPVC,
galvanized pipes and wood
 Hacksaws can also be used for cutting nuts, bolts and metallic alloys.

Maintenance;

 They require lubrication at joints with screws from time to time

 Replacing the blade is also important as they tend to get worn out easily if frequently
used.

JAB SAW

The jab saw is a perfectly fallback to the hacksaw. Jab saw are not as tall as the hacksaw which make
them a great pick for cutting pipes fitted in tight places. This is also a good selection for homeowners.

They are hand-held in the form of a typical knife. Hence, handling is easy and simplified.

Use;

 They are used to cut through small forms of pipes; mostly plastic or soft / dry wood

Maintenance;

 Avoid the using it to cut through larger objects

 Avoid using it as a screwdriver or for any function asides its own.

COMPASS SAW

The compass saw has a taper point at one end that widens as it stretches to the handle of the saw. It
can be considered a direct alternative to the hack saw. The tapered area handles cutting smaller radii
seamlessly. A bigger radius is done using the wider part of a compass saw.
Use;

 Similar to a jab saw, it simply is used for what a jab saw is not; to cut through larger
diameters of objects (mostly plastic or soft / dry wood)

Maintenance;

 Keep teeth filed and sharpen; avoid using blunt cutting edges as it may disfigure
ongoing constructions.

SABER SAW

The saber saw is a hand-held powered tool used to cutting out straight and curves lines on plastic,
wood and any other soft material that is just as thick as wood for example gypsum. But they cannot be
used to cut surfaces that are more one-and-the-half inches wide. That is where a reciprocating saw
fills in.

Use;

 It can used to cut through soft materials.

Maintenance;

 Constant lubrication is a factor to consider when intending to maintain

RECIPROCATING SAW

The reciprocating saw is operated electronically. It is used to cut thicker materials than wood.

FILES

Woods, pipes and materials that have taken cuts usually have roughed edges. For this reason, files are
used for shaping and smoothing them. Like saws, files have teeth. They are measured from the heel to
the end. Files have different kinds of teeth. They are: rasped cut, single cut, double cut and curved.
Files can get clogged when shaping or smoothing out materials.
Use;

 Files are used for shaping metals, woods or any other materials in plumbing.

Maintenance;

 To keep them usable and clog-free, brush in a parallel manner on the file surface.
 Use wire bristles to remove stubborn materials lodged in the teeth.

GRINDING MACHINE

A grinding machine is a conventional electrical –powered cutting tool that can be used on soft and
hard materials. Also known as a grinder, it makes use of a cutting disk; which in turn may be an
abrasive wheel or a steel disk. Grinding machines and the disks exist in different sizes to be chosen
with regards to personal preference and job to be done.

Use;

 It is an electrical powered tool used to cut off unwanted or needed dimensions of

materials; hard or soft.
 It is also used to smoothen surfaces if utilized properly.

Maintenance;

 Ensure disks are properly tightened before use to avoid damage to tool or user
 Utilize the disks according to the thickness and size of the object; the smaller the
object, the smaller the disk used; the bigger the object, the bigger the disk.
 

WOOD CHISEL

Chisels are made of tough steel with a significantly wider metal head where you can hammer a mallet
on. To keep the cutting edge of a chisel sharp, it should be honed at a 25° angle on an oil stone. This
will help trim out excess metal.

Another kind of chisel is the cold chisel. This is used for chipping off parts of a metal surface.

Use;

 The wood chisel is used for making long narrow openings and cuts for pipes.
 They can be used for making indentations on walls

Maintenance;

 Have the edges of the chisel filed and keep sharp at all times
 Avoid using them needlessly, except when duly required.

PIPE CUTTER

A pipe cutter is comprised of a handle, screw and cutting reel that cut the pipe. When turned, the
cutting reel performs the function of cutting into the gripped pipe seamlessly provided it is well
placed and handled.

Use;

 The pipe cutter is used for cutting PVC, CPVC and burnished pipes. The pipe cutter
has a hollow that is clamped to the body of the pipes, which can be adjusted for
steady grip using a screw.

Maintenance;

 Occasionally disassemble the cutter and clean off the residue or dust.
  Rusting isn’t a frequent detriment for pipe cutters, however keeping them safe and
not overly exposed serves as a good preventive measure to erase the possibility of
damage or rust.

SOIL PIPE CUTTERS

Soil pipe cutter give clean cuts to soil pipes, cast iron pipes, clay pipes and small diameter concrete
pipes.. The cutter wheel hidden within the chain impact enough pressure in the pipe causing it to snap.
Soil cutters are perfect for cutting pipes in tight areas.

To cut a cast iron using a soil cutter, turn counter-clockwise the adjusting knob of the soil pipe cutter
until it’s fully open. Place it on the pipe on the desired cutting spot and wrap the chain around the
pipe. Place the nearest chain pin into the hooks. Turn the adjusting knob clockwise to firmly tighten
the cutter around the pipe. Tighten the feed screw at the top of the knob until the pipe’s cut.

Use;

 Soil pipe cutters with applied pressure are used to cut pipes and are great for gray
water pipes application

INTERNAL PIPE CUTTER

This pipe cutter is used for cutting plastic pipes or copper pipes.

5. PIPE BENDING TOOLS

Most plumbing operations require bending pipes to varying angles. Some of the tools used for
bending are mentioned below.

 PIPE BENDING MACHINE

This machine is used for bending and turning pipes. The material of the pipe and the size of its
diameter determines what kind of pipe bending machine you should use. Hand operated bending
machines are used on pipes that are less than one inches in diameter. For diameters that climb higher,
an hydraulic manually operated pipe bending machine is used.

 
THREADING DIE

Fixing pipes and fixtures together can be made easily using a threading die. Threading die is used to
create thread on pipes and metals. It makes joining pipes to fixtures very easy.

 DRILLING AND BORING TOOLS

If you are going to successfully pin a pipe sturdily against any surface, drilling tools are your best bet.
They are used for boring holes into surface where plumbing pipes are to be installed.

Awls, gimlets and augers are used to make holes.

Popularly used tools for drilling and boring are mentioned below.

 PORTABLE ELECTRIC DRILLS

You can choose two options here. Cordless or cord electric drills. However, cordless drills are a little
more convenient. You won’t have to tug on and find that you can’t go too far with a cord that’s
plugged in somewhere. This is where the cordless drill has an upper hand. Although it’s rechargeable
battery discharges faster when used during drilling operations.

A ½ inches potable electric drill can be used to drill holes of any size in plumbing. For a ½ inches
sized chuck where you insert your drill bits, drills up to ½ inches can be used.

There are different drill bits that serve different purposes in plumbing. Some of them are mentioned
below;

Multispur Drill Bits

They are used for making precise holes in woods. These drill bits can drill smooth and clean holes in
softwoods and hardwoods. If you are looking to make a big gape inside a wooden structure use a
multispur drill bit. They are available in varying diameters from 1 inch to 4/5/8 inches

Plumber’s Auger

These are designed to cut through wood only. They are sharpened using an auger’s file. They do an
excellent job in drilling holes inside a wooden structure.
Spade Bits

They come as a cheap and are used for drilling holes in woods also.

 Use;

 Electric drills are used to create holes or openings within soft and hard materials
namely; word, plastic pipes etc.

Maintenance;

 Oiling the metal parts of the machine is required at a frequent rate

 Loosen and clean your equipment occasionally to prevent clogging up with dust
 Keep drill at a dry space
 Keep drill bits off the ground or any rough surface
 Sharpen drill bits regularly and consciously.

Other kinds of drills that are rarely used at are mentioned here. These are considered as heavy duty
drills.

 ROTARY HAMMER DRILL

A powerful hand tool which when drilling, the pounding or hammering action done by the drilling on
the concrete or masonry helps break the walls into bits, making drilling deeper a lot easier. The
pounding action on the rotary hammer drill is thanks to an installed piston which creates the pounding
force. The rotary hammer is famously known for heavy duty tasks.

Use;

 Rotary hammer drills are typically used to create large drilled holes in concrete and
masonry walls.

Maintenance;

 Have the keyed chucks properly lubricated as they provide the primary function of
holding the bits together with the tool, preventing it from falling apart
  Avoid pressing so hard when trying to drill an opening
 Avoid trying to widen hole by excessively rotating the equipment while drilling
 Wipe off excess debris or dust that goes into the hammer to prevent failure or
jamming
 Apply manufacturer recommended grease or lubricants to be applied into the
equipments.

 DIAMOND CORE DRILLING EQUIPMENT

Diamond core drills are similar to a hole saw and can make holes of up to 60 inches deep. Water is
used to cool the heating core of a diamond core drill.

They can cut both horizontally and vertically and are considered as first pick among plumbers when
more accurate and very rounded cuts are needed.

Use;

 Diamond core drills are generally and largely used for cutting through reinforced
concrete and rebar.

Maintenance;

 Ensure water is continuously applied without shortage; for the reason of keeping the
instrument cool
 Apply lubricants to the metallic parts of the tool
 Ensure proper cleaning of the tool against the entry of debris or excess dust.

JACK HAMMER

A times during the process of plumbing or construction; the need to create space through a concrete
obstruction arises. The use of a jack hammer is then required. It’s utilized as tool that uses air
compression to repeatedly impact surface to rapidly break it into bits.
Use;

 It is used to break down concrete obstructions, which may seem too much for a
manual chisel

Maintenance/ Precaution;

 Utilize the right tip or chisel before demolition process; the punch tip when breaking
aimlessly and the flat tip when trying to maintain an edge neatly.
 Always hold at a slight angle with a firm grip; for effectiveness
 When not using the jackhammer, shut off the air supply and relieve pressure from
supply hose
 Avoid damaging or coming in contact with an electric wire

7. HOLDING PLUMBING TOOLS

Thick pipes like cast iron, during drills or when being cut, or assembled need to be firmly held in
place for a clean operation. Some of the commonly used holding tools in plumbing are mentioned
below.

BENCH VICE

You cannot have a properly done fitting, drilling, cutting, threading, etc. if your pipes are always
slipping off. Vices are a much better option than having to use hands to hold a pipe firmly. Bench
vices are bolted to a wooden structure helping if sat comfortably preventing it from shifting during
operations.

The bench vice has two jaws. One is fixed and the other is adjustable using a handle attached to a
spindle. When the pipe is put in between the jaws, the spindle is turned clockwise to give a solid grip
that holds the pipe in place. Now, you can use any cutting, threading or filing tool to carry out your
operation without losing a finger.
This is a must-have for DIYers and homeowners.

Use;

 They are basically used to hold pipes and solid objects firmly in place

Maintenance/ Precaution;

 Always keep threaded and moving parts/ joints clean from dusts and debris
 Lubricate joints and threaded parts
 Avoid forcefully trying to move held object while being held firmly by the bench vice

Pipe Vice

Pipe vices are typically used to hold pipes firmly place during threading, cutting, assembly,
disassembly, etc. The pipe vice might get plenty of thumbs up from plumbers, but it toothed jaws use
for grasping pipes during cutting, threading, etc. always leave marks on the pipes. For this reason,
pipe vices are not usually used on pipes that will not be exposed.

Pipe vices can come with a threaded spindle–very popular–or the less common design which is chain-
typed. Both perform the same operations.

8. TESTING TOOLS

After plumbing operations; it’s typically an ideal practice to ensure the constructs are tested and
certified to be alright before use. Having constructs without testings especially plumbing; resonates
the risks of having the whole system fail if care is not taken. Hence as basic as it seems, it is the most
important.

PRESSURE BUCKETS
Testing pipelines utilized for water, oil or gas requires a certain amount of pressure to fish out the
leakages at any point. Pressure buckets are handy semi- manual special equipments used to pass water
into the pipelines (mostly supply) placing it under the pressure. The pressure should be left for 24 hrs.
A gauge is attached to the pressure bucket, once recorded; if there happens to be a decrease of the
reading. It translates to the having a leakage along the pipeline.

Use;

 The pressure bucket is primarily used for testing lengths of pipelines, mainly plastic
supply pipes.

9. OTHERS / OPTIONALTOOLS

Other commonly used plumbing tools by plumbers are mentioned below. These tools are used for
basic tasks and should be in your basement if you’re a homeowner or DIYer.

Hammers

The hammer is used for a wide range of things. It is used in driving, shaping and breaking
applications.

The hammer is a slender material consisting of a handle and a head which is made of tempered steel.
The impact made by a hammer is usually on a small area given the size of its head.

Common hammers used by a plumber are mentioned below.

Carpenter’s Hammer

Basically used for driving nails, striking the head of a wooden chisel and pulling out nails where you
don’t want them.
The typical peen hammer doesn’t have a claw. Just a big mass of tempered steel head on one side and
a peen on the other. However, there are exceptions when placed side by side with a claw hammer. The
end was replaced with steeled claws (curve or straight). This end is used for pulling out nails from
wood and other surfaces.

A hammer face may be plain or bell shaped. Hammers vary in weight. There are 4, 6, 8, and 12
ounces. For heavier tasks, 12 ounces are often used. For lighter operations 4 and 6 ounces are winners
in this category.

For pelting against a cold chisel, ball peen hammers are a preferred option.

Screwdrivers

Usually hand-operated, screwdrivers are used for turning slotted screws into a threaded hole. For
screws with a straight diametrical slot, a standard screwdriver with flat blade tips is used. They come
in different sizes. Screws with cross-head slots used a special kind of screwdriver that has a blade tip
that fits the pattern of the slot. The shank or stretched length of a screwdriver is made of hardened
steel. The tip is toughened to minimize rust. Handles of screwdrivers can be metal, wood or plastic.

A 4-in-1 screwdriver has two straight blades and two Philip blades. In situations where a typical
screwdriver cannot fit the any of the steeled slots on the head of a screw, a shank screwdriver may be
used.

Pliers

This gripping instrument is used for a wide range of things. They are used for cutting, twisting,
disassembly, assembly operations, etc. The plier has a rubber handle that gives you a firmer yet
comfortable grip. It has an exposed tough head made of steel which consist of a pivot joint, jaws
which houses the cutters for cutting through things like plastic and a pipe grip for holding pipes in
places when pressed inward.

Pliers that are generally used and can serve a wide range of functions in a plumbing toolbox are
the groove-joint pliers and the slip-joint pliers.
For clamping that packs an overwhelming punch when pressure is applied, the locking pliers are
great choices. They have hardened toothed jaw like the wrench. Locking pliers should not be applied
on finished surfaces because they leave indelible marks made from intense pressure exerted by the
plier on surface.

Trowel

Trowels are used for spreading and plastering purposes. This small handheld tool has a curve blade
that meets at a point; sometimes the blade could be rectangular. Trowels are also used for smoothing
mortar on a surface. It can be used for moving small amounts of viscous materials.

Spade

The metal blades of spades are typically rectangular in shape. The spade is made up of a cutting edge,
a shaft that stretches all the way to a handle grip, and a handle grip. The grip on the handle can be
made of metal or wood. Spades are generally designed for digging or cutting sand, turf, etc.

Shovel

Shovels bear the same design as a spade. Only the blade of a shovel is a tad bit different from a spade.
They are broader which makes them good lifters of soil materials than spades. Shovel blades are quite
strong and can also be used for digging. Other applications are for moving bulk materials, lifting, etc.

Pickaxe

This T-shaped hand tool is primarily used for digging. It has a broad axe blade on one side, and a
pointed end on the other. The pointed end is used for breaking and prying, while the axe blade end is
used for hoeing, digging, chopping, etc.
 

Mortar pan

A mortar pan, like a shallow basin, is made of steel that is used to hold or carry cement, mortar, etc.

Hangers

Hangers are basically used to supports or hold pipes.

Wheelbarrows

This cart with a single wheel and two separated handles of equal length is used for moving and
carrying materials from one place to another. The wheelbarrow is designed to carry heavier and
bulkier loads. The weight of the load in a wheelbarrow is evenly distributed on a which makes lifting
bulkier items a lot easier.

Plunger

The plunger is an important plumber’s help tool that is used to clear drains and clogged toilets.

Plumber’s Snake

The plumber’s snake and plungers carry out the same functions. However a plumber’s snake is used
instead of a plunger in drain pipes and toilet that cannot be unclogged using the plunger. The
plunger’s snake is slender and flexible. It is also called a toilet jack.

 
In conclusion, plumbing tools make plumbing operations very easy. Instructions on how to use them
should be strictly followed. You don’t want to create a wreck scene when using any of these plumbing
tools.