Plumbing Tools: 56 Things Your Plumbing Business Needs in 2025

It’s 2025, and plumbing tools aren’t just wrenches and plungers anymore. From advanced inspection cameras to Bluetooth-enabled gauges, the right gear can make or break your plumbing business.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have plumbing tools list so you can work smarter, not harder.

Basic Plumbing Tools

Every plumbing business needs a reliable set of essential tools to tackle common jobs effectively. From wrenches and pliers to drain snakes and tube cutters, these basics are the backbone of any plumbing toolkit.

1. Wrenches

Wrenches are a plumber’s go-to tools for gripping, tightening, and loosening pipes, fittings, and fixtures. Each type serves a specific purpose, from heavy-duty pipe wrenches to precision-adjustable wrenches, making them indispensable for everyday plumbing work.

a. Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench is the heavy lifter in a plumber’s toolkit, designed to grip and turn metal pipes securely without slipping. It has serrated jaws that dig into pipes for a firm hold, making it perfect for tightening and loosening threaded connections. Typically used in pairs, one wrench holds the pipe steady while the other applies torque.

• Price Range: $20–$60+ (standard size)
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, Milwaukee, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Crescent

b. Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench is a versatile tool with a sliding jaw that adjusts to fit different sizes of nuts and bolts. Unlike fixed-size wrenches, it can handle various fittings, making it ideal for quick adjustments without switching tools. It’s essential for plumbing jobs involving pipes, valves, and fixtures.

• Price Range: $10–$35+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee, Crescent
• Recommended Brands: Crescent, Milwaukee, Klein Tools

c. Basin Wrench

A basin wrench is a specialized tool designed for reaching and tightening or loosening nuts in tight spaces under sinks. Its long handle and pivoting jaw make it perfect for accessing hard-to-reach faucet mounting nuts behind sinks. This tool is essential for faucet installations and repairs.

• Price Range: $15–$40+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Superior Tool

d. Faucet Seat Wrench

A faucet seat wrench is a small, T-shaped tool used to remove and install faucet seats inside valve bodies. It prevents leaks by allowing plumbers to easily access and replace worn or damaged seats without dismantling the entire faucet.

• Price Range: $8–$20+
• Where to Buy: SupplyHouse, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Superior Tool, Danco

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e. Faucet Key

A faucet key, also known as a sillcock key, is a compact tool designed to operate water spigots, hose bibbs, and shut-off valves that lack standard handles. It typically has multiple head sizes to fit different valve stems and is essential for controlling outdoor water access.

• Price Range: $5–$15+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Jones Stephens, Danco, Milwaukee

f. Faucet Installer Tool

A faucet installer tool is a multipurpose tool designed for installing and removing faucet mounting nuts, supply lines, and other plumbing fixtures in tight spaces. Its notched design and extended handle allow plumbers to access hard-to-reach connections beneath sinks with minimal effort.

• Price Range: $10–$30v
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Superior Tool, Milwaukee

g. Ratchet Wrench

A ratchet wrench is a socket wrench with a ratcheting mechanism that allows plumbers to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts without removing and repositioning the tool. It’s ideal for repetitive tasks in confined spaces, providing speed and convenience with every turn.

• Price Range: $15–$50+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Crescent, DEWALT

h. Strap Wrench

A strap wrench uses a flexible rubber or nylon strap to grip and turn pipes, filters, or other cylindrical objects without causing scratches or surface damage. It’s perfect for working with delicate or polished pipes where a standard wrench could cause dents or scratches.

• Price Range: $10–$30+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Titan Tools

i. Crescent Wrench/Adjustable Wrench

A crescent wrench, also known as an adjustable wrench, features a movable jaw that adjusts to fit various bolt sizes, making it versatile for plumbing tasks. It’s ideal for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, and pipes without the need for multiple fixed-size wrenches.

• Price Range: $10–$35+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Crescent Tools
• Recommended Brands: Crescent, Milwaukee, Klein Tools

2. Pliers

Pliers are essential for gripping, bending, cutting, and twisting pipes and fittings. With different types designed for specific tasks, a well-rounded set of pliers can handle anything from precision work to heavy-duty gripping.

a. Channel Locks

Channel locks, also known as groove joint pliers, have adjustable jaws that can grip pipes, nuts, and fittings of varying sizes. Their long handles provide extra leverage, making them perfect for turning stubborn fixtures without slipping.

• Price Range: $15–$40+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Channellock
• Recommended Brands: Channellock, Milwaukee, Crescent

b. Slip-Joint Pliers

Slip-joint pliers have a pivot point that can be adjusted to handle two different jaw sizes, allowing for both gripping and cutting tasks. They are versatile and commonly used for gripping small pipes, tightening nuts, and bending wires.

• Price Range: $8–$20+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Klein Tools
• Recommended Brands: Klein Tools, Milwaukee, Channellock

c. Needle Nose Pliers

Needle-nose pliers have long, slender jaws that taper to a fine point, making them ideal for reaching tight spaces and gripping small objects. They’re perfect for precision tasks like bending wires, tightening small fittings, and retrieving dropped screws.

• Price Range: $10–$25+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Klein Tools
• Recommended Brands: Klein Tools, Milwaukee, DEWALT

d. Tongue and Groove Pliers

Tongue and groove pliers, often called groove-lock or water pump pliers, feature adjustable jaws with multiple positions, allowing plumbers to grip pipes, nuts, and bolts of varying sizes. Their angled jaws provide extra leverage, making them ideal for gripping and turning in tight spaces.

• Price Range: $15–$35+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Channellock
• Recommended Brands: Channellock, Milwaukee, Knipex

e. Pump Pliers

Pump pliers, also known as water pump pliers or adjustable pliers, have a wide jaw range and a pivot point that allows for multiple jaw positions. They are excellent for gripping, twisting, and turning pipes and fittings, especially when dealing with larger diameters.

• Price Range: $12–$30+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Channellock
• Recommended Brands: Channellock, Milwaukee, Knipex

3. Cutting Tools

Cutting tools are essential for trimming pipes, cutting through metal or plastic, and creating openings for plumbing installations. From heavy-duty hacksaws to precision tube cutters, each tool is designed for specific materials and tasks.

a. Hacksaw

A hacksaw is a versatile, hand-operated saw with a fine-toothed blade designed for cutting metal, plastic, and even some types of pipe. Its adjustable frame allows plumbers to swap out blades for different materials, making it a go-to tool for cutting through stubborn pipes and bolts.

• Price Range: $10–$25+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Klein Tools

b. Pipe Cutters

Pipe cutters provide clean, precise cuts on copper, PVC, and other types of pipe with minimal effort. They come in various sizes, including handheld mini cutters for tight spaces and ratcheting cutters for thicker pipes, making them essential for accurate, burr-free cuts.

• Price Range: $15–$50+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Klein Tools

c. Tube Cutters

Tube cutters are specialized tools designed for cutting through thinner-walled tubing like copper, PVC, and PEX with precision and minimal effort. Unlike pipe cutters, which handle thicker, more rigid pipes, tube cutters are typically more compact and feature a rotating cutting wheel that delivers a clean, even cut without distorting the tubing.

• Price Range: $12–$35+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, DEWALT

d. Hole Saw Kit

A hole saw kit includes multiple circular saw blades designed to cut precise holes in wood, metal, plastic, and even pipe walls. Unlike standard pipe cutters or tube cutters, hole saws create round openings for plumbing fixtures, pipe installations, and drain access points.

• Price Range: $20–$60+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Lenox

e. Deburring Tool/Reaming Tool

A deburring tool, also known as a reaming tool, is used to smooth and clean the rough edges left after cutting pipes or tubing. It removes burrs and sharp edges from copper, PVC, and metal pipes, ensuring clean, even surfaces that prevent leaks and fit properly into fittings.

• Price Range: $10–$25+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Klein Tools

f. Oscillating Multitool

An oscillating multitool is a power tool with interchangeable blades that can cut, sand, grind, and scrape various materials. It’s especially useful for cutting through drywall, pipes, and tight corners where traditional saws won’t fit. Unlike other cutting tools, it vibrates rapidly, allowing for controlled, precise cuts without damaging surrounding areas.

• Price Range: $50–$150+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Fein

g. Ratcheting Pipe Threader Set

A ratcheting pipe threader set is a specialized tool used to create threaded ends on metal pipes for secure fittings and connections. It includes multiple die heads for different pipe sizes and a ratcheting handle that makes threading faster and more efficient than manual threading tools.

• Price Range: $80–$200+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Rothenberger

4. Clog Removal Tools

Clog removal tools are essential for clearing blocked drains, pipes, and fixtures. From simple plungers to powerful drain machines, these tools help plumbers tackle everything from minor clogs to major blockages.

a. Plungers (Cup and Flange)

Plungers are the simplest yet most effective tools for clearing clogs in sinks, tubs, and toilets. Cup plungers work best on flat surfaces like sinks and bathtubs, while flange plungers feature an extended rubber sleeve that fits snugly into toilet drains, creating a stronger seal for better suction.

• Price Range: $5–$20+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Korky, PlumbCraft, Oatey

b. Drain Snake

A manual drain snake is a flexible, coiled metal cable that plumbers insert into pipes to break up and pull out minor clogs. It’s ideal for clearing hair, grease, and small debris from sinks, tubs, and shower drains without the need for motorized equipment.

• Price Range: $15–$50+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Cobra, Husky, BrassCraft

c. Hand Auger

A hand auger, also known as a plumber’s snake or closet auger, is a manually operated tool with a coiled metal cable that reaches deep into pipes to clear clogs. It’s designed for toilets and floor drains, using a crank handle to push the cable through tough obstructions like hair clumps and small debris.

• Price Range: $20–$60+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Cobra, BrassCraft

5. Measuring and Marking

Accurate measurements and clear markings are essential for precise cuts, fittings, and installations. From tape measures to markers, these basic tools ensure every cut and connection is exact.

a. Tape Measure

A tape measure is a retractable measuring tool used to accurately measure pipes, fittings, and installation spaces. It typically features a durable metal or fiberglass blade marked with standard and metric units, ensuring precise cuts and measurements on every job.

• Price Range: $10–$25+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Stanley, DEWALT

b. Markers

Markers are essential for labeling pipes, fittings, and cut lines to ensure accuracy during installation and repairs. Plumbing markers are typically waterproof and quick-drying, allowing plumbers to write on wet or oily surfaces without smudging or fading.

• Price Range: $3–$10+ (per set)
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Sharpie, Milwaukee, Markal

6. Sealing and Fastening

Sealing and fastening tools are crucial for creating watertight connections and preventing leaks. From thread-sealing tape to plumber’s putty, these materials keep pipes and fittings secure and leak-free.

a. Thread Sealing Tape

Thread sealing tape, also known as Teflon tape or plumber’s tape, is a thin, flexible tape used to seal threaded pipe connections. It prevents leaks by filling tiny gaps between threads, creating a watertight seal. It’s ideal for water, gas, and air fittings.

• Price Range: $2–$10+ per roll
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Oatey, RectorSeal, Hercules

b. Plumber’s Putty

Plumber’s putty is a soft, moldable sealing compound used to create watertight seals around sink drains, faucets, and other plumbing fixtures. It remains pliable even after setting, making it ideal for areas that may need adjustments or disassembly later.

• Price Range: $3–$10+ per container
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Oatey, RectorSeal, Hercules

7. Tightening and Loosening

Screwdrivers are essential for assembling, disassembling, and securing plumbing fixtures. A reliable set with various sizes and types ensures that plumbers can handle any screw or fastener they encounter.

a. Screwdriver Set

A screwdriver set includes various flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers in different sizes, allowing plumbers to tighten or loosen screws on fixtures, clamps, and pipe fittings. Having both long and short handles provides versatility in accessing tight or hard-to-reach spaces.

• Price Range: $15–$40+ per set
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Klein Tools, DEWALT

b. Stubby Screwdriver

A stubby screwdriver has a short handle and compact design, making it ideal for working in confined spaces where standard screwdrivers can’t fit. It’s available in both flathead and Phillips head versions, providing maximum control in tight areas.

• Price Range: $5–$15+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Klein Tools
• Recommended Brands: Klein Tools, Milwaukee, DEWALT

8. Safety Gear

Safety gear is essential for protecting plumbers from injuries caused by sharp tools, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials. From gloves and glasses to hard hats and knee pads, these items keep plumbers safe on the job.

a. Gloves

Gloves protect plumbers’ hands from cuts, abrasions, and exposure to chemicals while handling pipes, sharp tools, and hazardous materials. Nitrile and rubber gloves provide waterproof protection, while heavy-duty leather or reinforced gloves offer extra grip and durability.

• Price Range: $5–$20+ per pair
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Mechanix Wear, Ironclad

b. Safety Glasses

Safety glasses shield the eyes from flying debris, splashes, and dust during cutting, grinding, or pipework. Clear, shatter-resistant lenses provide full visibility while protecting against potential eye injuries on the job.

• Price Range: $10–$25+ per pair
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, 3M

c. Knee Pads

Knee pads cushion and protect the knees during prolonged work on hard surfaces, such as installing pipes under sinks or working in crawl spaces. Heavy-duty pads with gel or foam padding provide added comfort and impact resistance, reducing strain and preventing injuries.

• Price Range: $15–$35+ per pair
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, ToughBuilt, DEWALT

d. Headlamp

A headlamp provides hands-free lighting in dim or confined spaces, allowing plumbers to work safely under sinks, in basements, or inside crawl spaces. Adjustable straps and multiple brightness settings ensure optimal visibility without obstructing movement.

• Price Range: $15–$40+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Energizer, DEWALT

e. Hard Hat

A hard hat protects plumbers from head injuries caused by falling objects, overhead hazards, and accidental bumps. Ventilated designs keep workers cool, while adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. Some models also include built-in headlamps for added visibility in dark work areas.

• Price Range: $20–$50+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, 3M, DEWALT

Advanced Plumbing Tools

As plumbing jobs become more complex, basic hand tools alone aren’t enough to handle every task. Advanced tools, like power drills, inspection cameras, and leak detectors, can help plumbers work faster, pinpoint problems more accurately, and deliver higher-quality service.

1. Power Tools

Power tools bring speed, power, and precision to plumbing jobs that require more than hand tools can handle. Whether it’s drilling holes for pipe fittings or clearing severe clogs, these tools can handle tough tasks faster and more effectively.

a. Cordless Power Drill

A cordless power drill is a versatile tool used for drilling holes in walls, floors, and pipes, as well as for driving screws and fasteners. Its battery-powered design allows plumbers to work freely without the hassle of cords, making it ideal for tight spaces and quick jobs.

• Price Range: $50–$150+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Makita

b. Bandsaw

A bandsaw is a power tool with a continuous loop blade that can cut through metal, plastic, and thick pipes with precision. It’s especially useful for making straight, clean cuts in larger pipes or when preparing pipe sections for installation.

• Price Range: $150–$300+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Makita

c. Hole Saw

A hole saw is a circular cutting tool that attaches to a power drill to create clean, round openings in materials like wood, metal, and PVC. Plumbers use hole saws to make precise cutouts for pipe installations, drains, and fixtures without damaging surrounding surfaces.

• Price Range: $20–$75+ (kit with multiple sizes)
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Lenox

d. Reciprocating Saw

A reciprocating saw, also known as a Sawzall, uses a push-pull motion to cut through pipes, metal, wood, and drywall quickly. It’s perfect for demolition work, cutting through old pipes, or making quick, rough cuts in tight spaces.

• Price Range: $75–$200+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, Bosch

e. Wet/Dry Vacuum (Wet Vac)

A wet/dry vacuum is a powerful suction tool designed to clean up both water and debris, making it essential for clearing flooded areas, clogged drains, and construction messes. It comes with multiple attachments to handle various surfaces and can quickly remove standing water after pipe repairs or leaks.

• Price Range: $50–$150+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, DEWALT, Shop-Vac

f. Hydro Jetting Machine

A hydro jetting machine uses high-pressure water to blast through severe clogs and buildup in pipes, effectively clearing grease, roots, and other obstructions without chemicals. It’s a powerful option for deep cleaning drains and sewer lines, restoring optimal flow without the need for digging or dismantling pipes.

• Price Range: $500–$3,000+
• Where to Buy: SupplyHouse, Home Depot, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, General Pipe Cleaners, Spartan Tool

g. Plumber’s Torch/Soldering Torch

A plumber’s torch is a handheld tool that generates a controlled flame for soldering copper pipes and fittings. It’s essential for creating watertight seals in plumbing systems and can also be used for thawing frozen pipes and loosening rusted bolts.

• Price Range: $30–$100+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Bernzomatic, Milwaukee, TurboTorch

h. Snake Machine/Drain Machine

A snake machine, also known as a drain machine, is a motorized tool that powers a rotating cable through pipes to break up severe clogs. It’s far more powerful than manual drain snakes, making it ideal for clearing heavy blockages in main sewer lines and larger pipes.

• Price Range: $300–$1,500+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, General Pipe Cleaners

2. Inspection Tools

Plumbing issues aren’t always visible from the outside. Inspection tools let plumbers get a closer look inside pipes and walls, helping them identify leaks, clogs, and damage without tearing everything apart.

a. Wireless Inspection Camera

A wireless inspection camera is a flexible, camera-tipped tool that sends real-time video footage to a connected device, allowing plumbers to see inside pipes, walls, and drains without invasive drilling. It’s ideal for locating blockages, leaks, and pipe damage in hard-to-reach areas.

• Price Range: $100–$400+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Milwaukee
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, DEWALT, RIDGID

b. Drain Inspection Camera (Borescope)

A drain inspection camera, or borescope, is a small, camera-equipped device that threads through pipes to capture live footage of clogs, cracks, and corrosion. It provides plumbers with a clear view inside drains and sewer lines, making it easier to pinpoint problems without extensive digging or dismantling.

• Price Range: $200–$600+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, General Pipe Cleaners

3. Other Specialty Tools

Some plumbing tasks require more specialized equipment to get the job done right. From pressing fittings without soldering to detecting hidden leaks, these specialty tools add precision and efficiency to complex plumbing work.

a. Press Fitting Systems

Press fitting systems use specialized tools to create secure, watertight connections between pipes without soldering or welding. They work by pressing fittings onto pipes using a hydraulic or battery-powered tool, making them faster and safer for large plumbing installations.

• Price Range: $300–$1,500+
• Where to Buy: SupplyHouse, Home Depot, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Viega

b. Electronic Leak Detectors

Electronic leak detectors use sensors to detect changes in pressure, temperature, or sound waves, helping plumbers locate hidden leaks in pipes, walls, and floors. These devices are particularly useful for pinpointing small leaks that are hard to spot with the naked eye.

• Price Range: $100–$500+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, General Pipe Cleaners, Fluke

c. Pipe and Tube Benders

Pipe and tube benders are specialized tools that allow plumbers to bend metal and plastic pipes without kinking or cracking them. They are essential for customizing pipe angles during installations and repairs, ensuring precise fits without the need for additional fittings.

• Price Range: $50–$200+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Imperial

d. PEX Pipe Expander

A PEX pipe expander stretches the ends of PEX tubing to fit over expansion fittings, creating a secure, leak-proof connection without the need for clamps or glue. It’s a vital tool for installing and repairing PEX plumbing systems, especially in tight or confined spaces.

• Price Range: $100–$300+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, SupplyHouse
• Recommended Brands: Milwaukee, Uponor, DEWALT

Next-Gen Plumbing Tools

The plumbing industry is embracing smarter, more advanced tools that can do much more than the basics. From Bluetooth-enabled gauges that provide instant pressure readings to digital locators that pinpoint leaks with precision, technology is transforming how plumbers work. 

In this section, we’ll look at cutting-edge tools and software that can streamline operations, reduce errors, and save time.

1. Smart Tools

Smart tools use advanced technology to provide plumbers with real-time data and enhanced accuracy. These tools can detect leaks, monitor water flow, and provide instant diagnostics, making troubleshooting faster and more precise.

a. Bluetooth-Enabled Pressure Test Gauges

Bluetooth-enabled pressure test gauges provide instant pressure readings and transmit data directly to a smartphone or tablet. This eliminates the need for manual checks and allows plumbers to monitor pressure levels in real time, log data, and identify leaks or pressure drops more efficiently.

• Price Range: $100–$300+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Fluke

b. Digital Pipe Locators

Digital pipe locators use advanced sensors and GPS technology to detect the exact location of underground pipes, cables, and other buried utilities. They provide plumbers with accurate mapping data, reducing the risk of accidental damage during excavation and pinpointing problem areas with precision.

• Price Range: $300–$1,000+
• Where to Buy: SupplyHouse, Home Depot, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, Bosch

2. Additional Smart Tools Suggestions

a. Infrared Leak Detectors: Use thermal imaging to detect hidden leaks by identifying temperature variations. Ideal for locating leaks behind walls or under floors without invasive probing.

• Price Range: $250–$800+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, Fluke
• Recommended Brands: Fluke, RIDGID, Klein Tools

b. Trenchless Pipe Equipment: Allows plumbers to repair or replace underground pipes without digging trenches. Methods include pipe bursting and pipe lining, minimizing disruption while saving time and labor costs.

• Price Range: $2,000–$10,000+ (equipment rental or purchase)
• Where to Buy: Rental Supply Shops, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Perma-Liner, HammerHead

c. Portable HD Inspection Cameras: Compact, high-definition cameras with LED lights for inspecting pipes, drains, and sewer lines. Provides clear, real-time visuals to identify clogs, cracks, and corrosion.

• Price Range: $300–$1,000+
• Where to Buy: Home Depot, SupplyHouse, RIDGID
• Recommended Brands: RIDGID, Milwaukee, General Pipe Cleaners

d. Automated Leak Monitoring Systems: Wireless systems that monitor water flow, pressure, and temperature in real time. Sends alerts for potential leaks, excessive pressure, or unusual water consumption patterns.

• Price Range: $150–$500+
• Where to Buy: SupplyHouse, Home Depot, Flume
• Recommended Brands: Flume, Moen, StreamLabs

3. Software Solutions

Running a plumbing business isn’t just about fixing leaks or installing pipes. Keeping jobs organized, managing crews, and tracking hours are just as crucial to staying profitable.

That’s where plumbing service software comes in. It helps streamline operations, prevent costly errors, and keep every job on schedule.

Workyard’s plumbing software comes with tools specifically designed for plumbing businesses to handle day-to-day challenges.

Here’s what it offers:

a. Job Scheduling

Double bookings, missed appointments, and chaotic schedules can frustrate customers and waste time. Workyard’s drag-and-drop scheduling system lets you assign jobs, adjust schedules, and track progress — all in real time. It’s like having a digital job board that keeps everyone in sync without the constant phone calls and texts.

Eliminate manual scheduling inefficiencies and errors.

Try it free for 14 days Book a demo

Eliminate manual scheduling inefficiencies and errors.

Eliminate manual scheduling inefficiencies and errors.

Eliminate manual scheduling inefficiencies and errors.

Eliminate manual scheduling inefficiencies and errors.

b. Time Tracking

Missing hours and inaccurate time logs can drain your profits fast. Workyard’s GPS-verified time tracking keeps everyone accountable. Crews clock in and out using the app, and each entry is tied to a specific location. This eliminates payroll disputes and ensures you’re billing accurately for every hour worked.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Try it free for 14 days Book a demo

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

Ensure accurate payroll with Workyard’s smart time clock.

c. GPS Tracking

Plumbers running behind schedule or getting lost on the way to a job? Workyard’s GPS tracking pinpoints crew locations, allowing you to monitor routes and dispatch the closest available tech to urgent calls. This helps you minimize travel time and respond faster to last-minute requests.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Try it free for 14 days Book a demo

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Get complete transparency across your whole team.

Ready to eliminate guesswork and keep your plumbing business running smoothly? 

Try Workyard for free for 14 days

Investing Wisely: Tips for Building Your Toolkit

When starting a plumbing business, it’s tempting to buy every tool in sight. But spending wisely means focusing on essentials, investing in quality, and maintaining what you already have. In this section, we’ll cover budgeting strategies, how to choose durable tools, and tips for keeping your gear in top shape.

1. Budgeting Strategies

Starting a plumbing business can get expensive fast, especially when it comes to buying tools. Here’s how to make the most of your budget without compromising on quality:

• Prioritize Essential Tools First: Focus on foundational tools like wrenches, pliers, and pipe cutters. These are used on nearly every job and should be your first investments. Avoid splurging on specialty tools that you won’t use regularly.
  
• Buy in Phases: Instead of purchasing everything upfront, start with basic hand tools and gradually add power tools and specialty equipment as business picks up. This approach prevents overspending and lets you reinvest profits strategically.
  
• Consider Multi-Function Tools: Tools like oscillating multitools or combination wrenches can handle multiple tasks, reducing the need for separate, single-purpose tools.
  
• Rent High-Cost Equipment: Tools like hydro jetting machines or drain cameras can cost thousands. Instead of buying them right away, consider renting them for specific jobs until your cash flow stabilizes.
  
• Watch for Sales and Tool Kits: Look for deals on toolkits that bundle essential items together at a lower price than buying each tool separately. Brands like Milwaukee and RIDGID often offer discounted sets for new contractors.

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2. Quality Over Quantity

Cheap tools might save you money upfront, but they can cost you more in the long run. Here’s why investing in durable, high-quality tools is a smarter move:

• Longer Lifespan: Premium tools from trusted brands like RIDGID, Milwaukee, and Klein Tools are built to withstand heavy use. A well-made pipe wrench or cordless drill can last years with proper care, unlike cheaper alternatives that wear out quickly.
  
• Better Performance: High-quality tools are more precise, reliable, and comfortable to use. For example, a heavy-duty pipe cutter delivers cleaner cuts without crushing pipes, reducing the risk of leaks.
  
• Reduced Downtime: Tools that break down in the middle of a job can stall progress and lead to costly delays. Investing in durable, contractor-grade tools means less time spent on repairs and replacements.
  
• Safety First: Well-constructed tools are less likely to slip, break, or malfunction, reducing the risk of injuries on the job. This is especially important for power tools, where malfunctions can lead to serious accidents.
  
• Resale Value: Quality tools hold their value longer. If you upgrade or change equipment, you can resell premium tools at a higher price than cheap, worn-out gear.

3. Maintenance Tips

Your tools are an investment, and proper maintenance ensures they stay reliable and safe to use. Here’s how to keep your plumbing tools in top shape:

• Clean After Every Use: Wipe down tools with a dry cloth to remove dirt, grease, and moisture. For cutting tools, use a wire brush to clear out metal shavings or pipe debris.
  
• Prevent Rust: Store metal tools in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent corrosion. Apply a light coat of machine oil to moving parts and blades to keep them lubricated and rust-free.
  
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly check tools for cracks, frayed cords, and loose screws. Replace worn parts or damaged handles to avoid accidents on the job.
  
• Sharpen Cutting Tools: Dull blades can slip and cause injury. Keep saw blades, pipe cutters, and reaming tools sharp for clean, precise cuts.
  
• Organize Your Toolkit: Store tools in a toolbox or pegboard to prevent misplacement and protect them from accidental drops or damage. Label each section so you can quickly grab what you need without digging through a pile of gear.

Wrapping Up 

The right plumbing tools can make or break your business. From essential hand tools to advanced inspection cameras, investing wisely ensures you’re ready for any job.

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