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.
What Are Plumbing Tools?
Any system that distributes liquids for a variety of purposes is referred to as plumbing. In plumbing, fluids are transported using pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, tanks, and other equipment.
The most typical uses of plumbing include waste removal, potable water delivery, and heating and cooling (HVAC), but they are not limited to these applications.
Plumbers frequently encounter some various difficulties when providing services to homeowners, including squeezing through tight spaces, avoiding potential health risks, and other difficulties.
Plumbing is a challenging job for any plumber, whether you are a residential plumber or a commercial plumber. These jobs require the right tools and a certain skill set to be successful.
Here, we will look at the 50 most useful tools that plumbers should use while on the job to ensure a successful project.
So let’s get started.
List Of Plumbers Tools
There are several essential tools that every plumber should have, which are listed below:
#1. Pipe Wrench.
A pipe wrench is a big, heavy wrench that plumbers use to grab round metal pipes. Its jaws have sharp teeth that bite into the pipe so it does not slip while you turn it. You can open and close the jaws to fit different pipe sizes, so one wrench can work on many pipes. This tool is great for tight or rusty metal pipes that will not move easily.
Plumbers often use two pipe wrenches at the same time: one to hold the pipe still and the other to turn a fitting or another pipe. This gives more control and keeps things from twisting or breaking. Pipe wrenches are not usually used on shiny faucet parts because the teeth can scratch them. Instead, they are used on strong metal pipes in basements, behind walls, or in mechanical rooms.
If you ever see a plumber working on big metal pipes, there is a good chance you will see a pipe wrench in their hands.
#2. Adjustable Wrench.
An adjustable wrench looks like a regular wrench, but one jaw can slide in and out to fit many different nut and bolt sizes. You turn a small wheel to open or close the jaw until it fits tightly on the nut. This means you do not need a separate wrench for every size, which saves space in the toolbox.
Plumbers use adjustable wrenches on sink supply lines, shut‑off valves, and many small metal parts around faucets and toilets. When the wrench is adjusted correctly, it holds the nut tightly so it doesn’t round off the corners. You just pull or push the handle to loosen or tighten the connection.
Adjustable wrenches are also useful for many non‑plumbing jobs at home, like putting together furniture or fixing bikes. Because they are so flexible and easy to use, most beginner plumbing tool lists suggest buying at least one small and one medium‑size adjustable wrench.
#3. Tongue‑And‑Groove Pliers.
Tongue‑and‑groove pliers are sometimes called “channel‑lock” pliers. They have long handles and jaws that can be set in different positions using a sliding groove system. This lets them open wide or stay narrow, so they can hold many different shapes and sizes of parts.
Plumbers use these pliers to grip nuts, pipes, and fittings when they need extra strength. The long handles give a lot of leverage, which makes it easier to turn stuck parts. The jaws are shaped to grab flat sides or round objects, so they are very handy in all kinds of plumbing work.
Because they can be adjusted so quickly, tongue‑and‑groove pliers are one of the first tools new plumbers are told to buy. They are useful under sinks, in tight corners, and whenever you need a strong grip. Many professionals keep more than one size so they can choose the best one for the job.
#4. Locking Pliers (Mole Grips).
Locking pliers, also called mole grips or vise‑grips, are special pliers that can clamp down and then lock in place. You squeeze the handles to close the jaws tightly on an object, and a small lever locks them so they stay closed without your hand holding them.
Plumbers use locking pliers when they need a very firm grip on something, like a rusty bolt or a part they are heating with a torch. Because the pliers stay locked, your hands are free to use another tool or to keep your fingers away from heat or sharp edges. If the part is stuck, you can also use the locked pliers as a handle to twist or pull harder.
To release the pliers, you pull a small lever on the handle, and the jaws open. Many plumbing tool guides suggest having at least one pair of locking pliers because they are so useful in tricky situations.
#5. Basin Wrench.
A basin wrench is a very unusual‑looking tool with a long handle and a small, claw‑like head that can turn sideways. It is specially made to reach up behind sinks where your hands and normal wrenches cannot fit.
Under a sink, the nuts that hold the faucet in place are high up and hidden. A basin wrench lets you reach those nuts from below. You hook the claw around the nut, and then you turn the long handle to tighten or loosen it. The head can flip to work in both directions, which is very helpful in tight spaces.
This tool is not used for many other jobs, but when you need it, nothing else works as well. That is why beginner plumbing lists often name the basin wrench as a must‑have tool for installing or removing faucets.
#6. General‑Purpose Pliers Set.
A general pliers set usually includes different types, such as slip‑joint pliers, needle‑nose pliers, and maybe small cutting pliers. Each type has a special shape to help with certain tasks. Slip‑joint pliers can open wider or narrower for different sizes, while needle‑nose pliers have long, skinny tips that fit into small spaces.
Plumbers use these pliers to hold small parts, bend wires, pull out clips, and grab things that fingers cannot reach. For example, if a tiny part falls behind a sink or inside a cabinet, needle‑nose pliers can help pick it up. Slip‑joint pliers are handy for turning small nuts, pulling out old washers, and doing light gripping work.
Most plumbing tool lists suggest having a small set of mixed pliers because they are useful for many jobs, not just plumbing. They are part of basic hand‑tool training in plumbing courses for beginners.
#7. Pipe And Tubing Cutter.
A pipe or tubing cutter is a tool that cuts pipes cleanly and evenly. It usually has a sharp wheel and two rollers; you clamp it around the pipe, tighten it, and spin it around. With each turn, you tighten it a little more until the pipe snaps off with a smooth edge.
Plumbers like pipe cutters because they make very straight cuts that help fittings seal better and leak less. They are commonly used on copper pipes and can also be made for steel or plastic. Some cutters are big for normal work, and others are tiny “mini cutters” that fit into tight spaces.
Most professional and DIY plumbing tool lists say that pipe cutters are essential for installing or replacing water lines, since clean cuts are so important for good joints.
#8. Internal PVC Pipe Cutter.
An internal PVC pipe cutter is a small tool that fits inside a plastic pipe. It often attaches to a drill and has a little rotating blade on the end. Instead of cutting the pipe from the outside, it cuts from the inside out.
This is very helpful when a pipe end is buried in a wall, floor, or tight spot, and you cannot get a normal cutter around it. A plumber can slip the internal cutter down into the pipe, start the drill, and slowly move it until the blade cuts through. Then the damaged or unwanted piece of pipe can be removed, and a new connection can be made.
Guides for pipe tools explain that internal PVC cutters are best for repair jobs where you want to avoid breaking tiles, walls, or other finished surfaces. They are a more advanced tool, but very useful in tricky situations.
#9. Hacksaw.
A hacksaw is a simple hand saw with a thin, replaceable blade held in a metal frame. Plumbers use hacksaws to cut many materials, including plastic pipe, metal pipe, bolts, and brackets. The teeth on the blade are small, so they can cut metal without getting stuck easily.
When using a hacksaw, you move it back and forth with steady strokes, letting the teeth do the work. After cutting, plumbers often clean up the rough edges with a file or special tool so that fittings slide on more easily.
Even though there are many newer cutting tools, hacksaws are still included in essential plumbing tool lists because they are cheap, easy to find, and can be used in many situations. They are a basic part of most beginner plumbing toolkits.
#10. Hole Saw Kit.
A hole saw kit is a set of round cutting attachments that connect to a drill. Each one looks like a short metal cup with teeth on the edge. When the drill spins, the teeth cut a neat, round hole in wood, drywall, or thin metal.
Plumbers use hole saws when they need to run pipes through walls, cabinets, floors, or studs. The holes are smoother and better looking than if they used a regular saw. Different sizes in the kit match different pipe diameters, so the pipe fits nicely without too much extra space.
Professional tool lists point out that hole saws save time and make installations look more professional, especially in visible areas like under sinks or in cabinets. For this reason, many plumbers keep a small kit in their drill case.
#11. Pipe And Tube Bender.
A pipe or tube bender is a tool that bends pipes without flattening or kinking them. It often has curved shapes or formers that match the size of the pipe. You place the pipe in the tool and pull on the handles to bend it smoothly.
Plumbers use benders a lot with copper or similar tubing when they want neat, gentle turns instead of using many joint fittings. Fewer fittings can mean fewer possible leak points and better water flow. Bending also makes the job look cleaner and can save time and materials.
Guides to essential plumbing tools say a good pipe bender is important when working with copper or soft tubing, especially in places where the pipes are visible, like near boilers or inside cabinets.
#12. Plumber’s Torch.
A plumber’s torch is a small handheld torch used to heat metal pipes and fittings so that solder can melt and seal the joint. It usually runs on gas, such as propane, in a small cylinder. The torch makes a hot, focused flame that you aim at the pipe.
To solder a copper joint, a plumber cleans the pipe, adds flux, fits the pieces together, and heats them with the torch. Then they touch solder wire to the joint, and the melted solder flows in and seals the gap.
Because open flames can be dangerous, plumbers are trained to use torches carefully and keep flammable materials away. Many tool lists include a plumber’s torch as an essential tool if you work with copper piping.
#13. Flashlight Or Work Light.
Plumbing work often happens in dark places, like under sinks, in basements, or in crawlspaces. A good flashlight or small work light helps plumbers see exactly what they are doing.
With bright light, it is easier to spot leaks, rust, cracks, and small parts. It also makes the job safer because you can see tools, wires, and other hazards. Many plumbers prefer LED lights because they are bright, last a long time, and do not get very hot.
Beginner tool lists often remind people not to forget lighting, because even the best tools are hard to use if you cannot see the work area clearly.
#14. Cup Plunger.
A cup plunger is the classic plunger with a simple rubber cup on the end of a stick. It works best on flat drains, like those in sinks, tubs, and showers. You place the rubber cup over the drain, push down, and then pull up to create pressure and suction.
This push‑and‑pull motion can loosen clogs caused by hair, soap, or food bits. The key is to make a good seal so that air and water move through the pipe instead of around the edges of the cup. Plumbing tips often say that every home should have at least one good cup plunger because it is cheap and solves many small problems without calling a plumber.
#15. Flange (Toilet) Plunger.
A flange plunger looks like a regular plunger but has an extra narrow piece of rubber, called a flange, that sticks out from the bottom. This flange fits into the opening at the bottom of a toilet bowl.
Because toilets have curved shapes and deeper openings, a normal cup plunger does not seal very well. The flange plunger creates a much better seal inside the toilet outlet, so the push‑and‑pull force goes straight to the clog. This makes it more powerful and less messy.
Plumbing advice websites explain that a flange plunger is the right tool for toilets, while a cup plunger is better for sinks and tubs. Many tool lists suggest having both types in the house.
#16. Handheld Drain Snake.
A handheld drain snake, or drain auger, is a long, flexible metal wire coiled inside a small drum or handle. You feed the wire into the drain and turn a handle to push it farther down the pipe.
When the end of the snake reaches a clog, you can twist it to break up the blockage or to hook it and pull it back out. This works well on hair clogs in bathroom drains or food clogs in kitchen sinks. Drain snakes can reach farther than a plunger, so they are useful when simple plunging does not fix the problem.
Most guides to basic plumbing tools say that a simple manual drain snake is a powerful next step before calling a professional.
#17. Toilet Auger.
A toilet auger is a special kind of drain snake made just for toilets. It has a curved metal tube that fits into the toilet bowl and guides the cable through the trap without scratching the porcelain.
You place the curved end into the bowl, then crank the handle to feed the cable into the toilet’s internal passage. When it meets a clog, you can twist and push to break it up or grab it. Because it is designed for toilets, it can clear clogs that a normal drain snake or plunger might not reach.
Plumbing experts say a toilet auger is one of the most effective tools for stubborn toilet clogs and is safer for the toilet than using metal tools directly in the bowl.
#18. Automatic Or Powered Drain Auger.
An automatic or powered drain auger uses a motor, often battery‑powered, to spin and feed the cable into the drain. Instead of turning a handle by hand, you squeeze a trigger.
This makes it easier to push the cable through long or tough clogs, like those in main drain lines or long kitchen pipes. The motor keeps the cable moving smoothly and can save a lot of effort compared with a manual snake.
Professional plumbing tool lists point out that powered augers are especially helpful for plumbers who clear many drains each day. Some advanced DIYers also use them for frequent or serious clogs.
#19. Cartridge Puller.
Many modern faucets have a “cartridge” inside that controls water flow and temperature. Over time, the cartridge can wear out or get stuck because of mineral buildup.
A cartridge puller is a small tool that grabs the cartridge and pulls it straight out of the faucet body. Without this tool, you might have to pry or twist the cartridge using pliers, which can damage the faucet. The puller makes removal smoother and safer.
Plumbing tool articles mention cartridge pullers as very handy when you do a lot of faucet repairs. For a homeowner who wants to fix a dripping faucet themselves, having the right puller can make the job much easier.
#20. Faucet Valve Seat Wrench.
Older style compression faucets have a “valve seat” inside where the washer presses to stop the water. If this valve seat gets worn or pitted, the faucet can drip even after changing the washer.
A faucet valve seat wrench is a small, L‑shaped tool that fits into the faucet body and lets you unscrew the valve seat. Once removed, you can replace it with a new one or sometimes re‑grind it, depending on the design.
Plumbing guides explain that fixing the valve seat is often the final step in stopping stubborn drips in older faucets. That is why specialized tools like valve seat wrenches still appear in lists of useful plumbing repair tools.
#21. Solvent Cement and Primer.
For plastic pipes like PVC, plumbers usually do not use glue in the normal sense; they use solvent cement and primer. The primer cleans and softens the pipe surface, and the cement chemically melts a thin layer of the plastic.
When the pipe and fitting are pushed together, the softened surfaces fuse into one solid piece as they cure. This makes a strong, watertight joint. Plumbers are taught to always use the correct primer and cement for the pipe type and to follow the drying times.
Tool and material guides say solvent cement and primer are essential whenever you work with plastic drain or vent piping.
#22. PTFE Thread‑Seal Tape.
PTFE tape, often called Teflon tape, is a thin white tape wrapped around the threads of metal or plastic pipe fittings. It fills tiny gaps between the threads and helps prevent leaks when the pieces are screwed together.
The tape also makes it easier to tighten the parts and later take them apart if needed. You wrap it in the same direction that the fitting will turn so it does not unwrap while tightening.
Most plumbing tool lists include PTFE tape as a basic supply because it is cheap, easy to use, and very effective at sealing threaded joints in many water systems.
#23. Pipe Thread Compound.
Pipe thread compound, also known as pipe dope, is a thick paste that plumbers brush onto threads before assembling them. Like PTFE tape, it helps seal joints and prevent leaks, but some plumbers prefer it for larger metal pipes or high‑pressure lines.
The compound fills small spaces and stays a bit flexible, helping to maintain a seal over time. It is especially popular on gas lines and big threaded fittings where extra sealing power is desired.
Many professional guides recommend keeping both PTFE tape and thread compound in a plumbing kit and using whichever is best for the specific job.
#24. Press‑Fitting System Tools.
Press‑fitting systems use special metal fittings and a powerful press tool to join pipes without solder or open flame. The tool squeezes a ring or sleeve on the fitting, pressing it tightly onto the pipe.
This makes a strong, watertight joint very quickly. Because no torch is needed, press systems are safer in places where fire could be a risk, like in wooden buildings or crowded mechanical rooms.
Plumbing industry articles say press tools can save a lot of time on big jobs, even though the tools and fittings cost more. They are becoming more common in professional plumbing work.
#25. Safety Gear (Gloves, Goggles, And More).
Safety gear is just as important as any wrench. Plumbers use waterproof gloves to protect their hands from dirty water, sharp edges, and chemicals. Safety glasses or goggles keep eyes safe from splashes, dust, and flying bits of metal or plastic.
Knee pads protect knees when working on hard floors, and a headlamp or work light helps you see clearly in dark spaces. Some plumbers also wear masks or respirators when dealing with dust, Mold, or strong fumes.
Plumbing safety guides and tool lists always remind workers to use proper protective equipment, because plumbing jobs often involve pressure, heat, sharp tools, and dirty environments. Staying safe means you can keep working and avoid serious injuries.
#26. Tape Measure.
A tape measure is a long, flexible ruler that rolls up into a small case. Plumbers use it to measure how long pipes should be, how far apart fixtures are, and where to drill or cut.
Accurate measuring prevents mistakes like cutting a pipe too short or putting holes in the wrong place, so this tool is needed in almost every plumbing job.
#27. Spirit Level (Plumbing Level).
A spirit level, or bubble level, is a straight tool with a clear tube and a bubble inside that shows if something is perfectly horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb). Plumbers use it to make sure pipes slope correctly for drainage and that sinks, toilets, and bathtubs are not crooked.
Keeping things, level helps water flow properly and makes the finished work look neat and professional.
#28. Screwdriver Set.
A screwdriver is used to turn screws in or out, and a set includes different tips like flat (slot) and cross‑shaped (Phillips). Plumbers use screwdrivers to remove faucet handles, open access covers, attach brackets, and adjust small parts inside fixtures.
Without screwdrivers, you often cannot even reach the parts inside taps, valves, and other plumbing hardware.
#29. Allen Keys (Hex Keys).
Allen keys, or hex keys, are small L‑shaped tools that fit into screws with hexagon‑shaped holes. Many modern taps and shower handles use hidden hex screws to hold parts in place.
Allen keys are needed to remove or tighten these screws so you can repair or replace the handles and other fittings.
#30. Pipe Reamer Or Deburring Tool.
A pipe reamer or deburring tool smooths the rough, sharp edge left inside a pipe after it is cut. Plumbers spin this tool inside the pipe end to remove burrs so water flows smoothly and fittings can slide on fully. This helps prevent leaks and stops sharp edges from damaging seals or O‑rings inside joints.
#31. Pipe Vice Or Bench Vice.
A pipe vice or bench vice is a strong clamp that holds pipes or parts firmly while you work on them. Plumbers use it when cutting, threading, or filing pipes so the pipe does not twist or slip. Having the pipe held solidly makes cutting more accurate and working with sharp tools much safer.
#32. Water Pump Pliers.
Water pump pliers are adjustable pliers with long handles and jaws that can open to grip different sizes of nuts, fittings, and pipes. Plumbers use them when they need a strong grip on awkwardly shaped or larger parts. The long handles give good leverage, making it easier to loosen tight connections without slipping.
#33. Ratcheting Pipe Cutter.
A ratcheting pipe cutter has sharp jaws and a ratchet mechanism that slowly closes the blade onto plastic pipe, like PVC or PEX, with several squeezes.
It makes clean, straight cuts without needing a lot of hand strength. Smooth cuts help joints seal better and reduce the chance of leaks in plastic piping.
#34. Junior Hacksaw.
A junior hacksaw is a smaller version of a hacksaw with a short, thin blade and compact frame. Plumbers use it to cut small pipes, screws, brackets, or metal parts in tight spaces where a big saw will not fit. It is handy for detailed cutting and small repairs around plumbing fixtures.
#35. Caulking Gun.
A caulking gun holds a tube of sealant, like silicone, and helps squeeze it out in a smooth, controlled line. Plumbers use it to seal gaps around sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets so water cannot leak into walls or floors. Good sealing prevents water damage, Mold, and rot around plumbing installations.
#36. Plumber’s Putty and Sealant.
Plumber’s putty is a soft, moldable material pressed around parts like sink drains and faucet bases to stop water from seeping through.
Silicone sealant is a sticky, rubbery material used around tubs, showers, and sinks to close gaps where water might splash. These sealers protect surfaces and keep water where it belongs, inside the fixtures and pipes.
#37. Drain Rods.
Drain rods are stiff rods that screw together to form a long tool for clearing outdoor drains and sewer pipes. A special end, like a plunger head or corkscrew, goes on the front.
Plumbers push and twist the rods through outside drains to break up or move along leaves, mud, and other debris that cause blockages.
#38. Wet/Dry Vacuum.
A wet/dry vacuum is a powerful vacuum cleaner made to safely pick up water as well as dust and dirt.
Plumbers use it to suck water out of clogged pipes, toilet bowls, or flooded areas before starting repairs. Removing standing water first makes repairs cleaner and makes it easier to see and reach the problem.
#39. Bucket, Towels, And Rags.
A bucket, along with towels and rags, is used to catch and clean up water when pipes or fittings are opened. Plumbers place a bucket under traps, valves, and joints to catch any water that spills out.
Towels and rags help dry parts before sealing and protect floors and cabinets from getting soaked or stained.
#40. Pipe Inspection Camera.
A pipe inspection camera is a small camera on the end of a flexible cable that can be fed into drains and pipes; the picture is shown on a screen.
Plumbers use it to look inside pipes and find clogs, breaks, or tree roots without digging or breaking walls. Seeing the exact problem and location helps choose the best repair and saves time and effort.
#41. Pipe Freezing Kit.
A pipe freezing kit is used to turn water inside a section of pipe into ice, creating a temporary solid plug. This lets plumbers cut or change a pipe or valve without draining the whole system.
It is especially useful on large or hard‑to‑drain systems where shutting everything down would be difficult.
#42. PEX Crimping Tool.
A PEX crimping tool is used with PEX plastic pipe to squeeze metal rings around the pipe and fittings. When the ring is crimped, it tightly holds the pipe to the fitting and makes a leak‑resistant joint. This tool is necessary for building or repairing water systems that use PEX with crimp‑ring connections.
#43. PEX Expansion Tool.
A PEX expansion tool stretches the end of certain types of PEX pipe so a fitting can be pushed inside. After expansion, the pipe shrinks back and grips the fitting firmly, forming a tight seal. This tool is required for PEX systems that use expansion fittings instead of crimp rings.
#44. Pipe Threading Die Set.
A pipe threading die set cuts screw threads on the outside of metal pipes so they can be screwed into threaded fittings. The die is placed over the pipe end and turned to cut clean, even threads.
Threaded connections are common on steel or galvanized pipes for water and gas, so this tool is important when making or repairing such lines.
#45. Stopcock Key (Main Shutoff Key).
A stopcock key is a long tool used to reach and turn main water shutoff valves that are buried in the ground or set deep in boxes.
The shaped end fits over the valve head so it can be turned on or off. This tool is needed to control the main water supply when working on plumbing inside the building.
#46. Water Pressure Tester (Gauge).
A water pressure tester, or pressure gauge, measures how strong the water pressure is in a plumbing system. It usually screws onto a tap or test point and shows the pressure on a dial.
Plumbers use it to check if pressure is too high (which can damage pipes) or too low (which makes taps and showers weak), and to adjust pressure regulators correctly.
#47. Laser Level.
A laser level projects a straight line of light across a wall, floor, or room. Plumbers use it to line up pipes and fixtures along a perfectly straight path over longer distances.
The bright laser line makes it easy to see if something is out of line and to keep installations looking straight and even.
#48. Cordless Drill.
A cordless drill is a battery‑powered tool that drills holes and can also drive screws. Plumbers use it to drill holes in wood, drywall, and some metals for pipes and brackets, and to fasten screws for clips and supports.
Because it runs on a battery, it can be used in places without a nearby power socket, such as under floors or in attics.
#49. Tool Bag Or Toolbox.
A tool bag or toolbox is used to store and carry all the plumbing tools in an organized way. It has pockets, loops, and compartments so tools are easy to find and do not get damaged.
Being able to move all the needed tools quickly from one job to another makes work faster and helps prevent losing tools.
#50. Hammer.
A hammer is a basic tool with a heavy head and handle used for hitting. In plumbing, it can drive in nails for pipe straps, tap parts into place, or free things that are stuck with gentle blows.
It supports many small tasks around pipes and fixtures, making it a useful general‑purpose tool in a plumber’s kit.