Working in the plumbing industry takes more than just being handy. It is necessary to be aware of how to securely explore your way through a work-site and more importantly, your tools. Experts in the trade business maneuver around various problems and perils, to give the best plumbing solutions and encounters to customers.
There are hundreds of different types of tools that a plumber could need when on site and every job is different. Consider these top five utensils part of your uniform and carry them in your toolbox at all times. By having the proper tools on site, you are approaching each job with the appropriate precautions. Below, we have provided you with a list of the top 5 essential tools to optimize your service performance.
1. Pipe Wrench- The wrench is perhaps the most common mechanical gadget associated with plumbing. However, just like most service tools, there are many different kinds of wrenches that serve a different purpose. The pipe wrench, The Stillson type to be more specific, is an adjustable wrench that has solidified serrated teeth. The purpose of these teeth like appearance on the jaw of the wrench is so it can sink into the softer metal around the pipe enough to grip it for turning against resistance. These wrenches are utilized to adjust fittings on pipework and tighten and loosen nuts. Fluctuating in length, pipe wrenches are typically the largest wrench in the average toolbox.
Davisware Tip: Plan to go on site with multiple wrenches so you are prepared. Some plumbers even use two at a time when working with certain pipes.
2. Plungers- Perhaps the most underrated tool, simply because most homeowners own them. However, sometimes an average home plunger isn’t strong enough to complete the task. Plumbers should always come prepared with their own. A trade professionals version of a plunger can produce significantly more suction than the average consumer plunger.
Davisware Tip: To use a plunger in the most effective way, always plunge straight and vertical. To create a better seal, make sure to get the air out of the plunger cup. Lastly, make sure there is enough water to submerge the plunger (if there isn’t add some!) Apply these tips to receive the best results.
3. Thread Sealing Tape- This kind of tape is used to patch or prevent possible leaks that are found at the threaded joint connections in piping. For convenience, it is sold pre-cut to specific widths, making it easy to wrap around pipe threads.
Davisware Tip: We highly recommend spending a little extra to purchase the best thread sealing tape. Having the best quality can ensure its resistance to both high and low temperatures. It also, stretches easier for better, form-fitting coverage.
4. Tube and Plastic Pipe Cutters- Whether you're dealing with copper or plastic piping, having a tube and plastic pipe cutter on hand is always a lifesaver. Being a plumber, you need to be crafty when working on any type of repair. This type of tool is used by plumbers to cut pipe when they need to remove, replace, or resize them. When working with a stronger (thicker) pipe; a pipe cutter with a sharp wheel and adjustable jaw grips serve best for easier use. Like wrenches, there are many different types of pipe cutters for different jobs. Professionals find it useful to have a pair or two on hand to choose which models work best for every job.
5. Goggles- As we have previously said, smart is safe! Being a plumber means getting up close and personal to leaks, soldering, and other situations that can be potentially dangerous to the bare eye. Having appropriate eye-wear is arguably the MOST essential plumbing tool. Experienced professionals in this field are aware of the potential risk of getting injured on the job, so they never leave this tool at home!
Reminder: As technology advances, fewer trade professionals are relying on a paper and pen recording system to form estimates and write out invoices. With software provided by Davisware, your company will have access to view your service vehicles, job locations, vendors and employee home locations all on the same live map. By transitioning to this software, plumbers and other trade workers can better sell their products and services to homeowners, reduces mistakes, and process payments on site. Not only are you able to provide better and faster service by dispatching the closest available technician, but you will gain access to reports on vehicle idle time, stop time, speeding, mileage and more.
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