Plumbing repairs are not to difficult when it comes to the most common issues such as drips, running toilets or slight pipe leaks from the drain pipe joints. The key is to ensure that you have the proper tools and parts necessary to tackle these jobs in an efficient manner. This article will point out those that you need to have on hand in case of small plumbing emergencies which can be repaired in only a few short minutes from the time you are able to turn off the water to the problem area.
Obviously we need to have some parts on hand for emergency repairs as it is easier to have them sitting in the junk drawer than having to turn off water and run to your favorite store only to discover they are out of the parts you need. It is a good idea to simply pick up two packs of assorted washers and rings. These are under 3 dollars each and you need to ensure you have enough of the particular washers required on hand which is why two packs are suggested.
In most cases, a flapper is required for running toilets and in other cases the tower valve that fills the tank is the issue. While flappers are a great piece to have lying around, it is recommended to simply have a full flush repair kit on hand. A cheaper old school system will be less than 10 dollars while a low flow will cost a bit more. This is ideal as the internal pieces should be replaced at once just to save from future issues. If the flapper has gone bad due to rot or damage from hard water, you can be assured in knowing that the other components are also suffering from the same problem. It is just easier to replace all of the working parts in the tank at once.
Fix it manuals for plumbing, while not necessary for those mechanically inclined, are highly recommended. These manuals are a comprehensive how to on all aspects of plumbing repair, including some that should be left to a professional. These will cover leaks, fixture replacement and pipe cleaning among others that you should be educated on. You do not need to be sweating in new piping or replacing water tanks in your first or second endeavors so keep the big jobs for a professional who will be responsible for any installation issues.
Pipe wrenches are a must and a full set is recommended. There are tool stores and flea markets that have these at great prices and are of a quality that will get the job done for a nice price. This is mentioned as many will buy a high dollar item only to realize they are not doing the work that would require a high end pipe wrench. In most cases, you will be dealing with PVC or flex line and simply want a big wrench to give you proper leverage.
Ensuring that you have these items in stock will guarantee that you are prepared for any plumbing emergencies that occur on a regular basis in the home. The repairs themselves, as mentioned, are not difficult and the right tools will only make the repair that much easier to complete.