Top 10 Home Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have (and How to Use Them)
Plumbing issues are among the most common — and most expensive — household problems. The good news? Many minor plumbing issues can be solved quickly without calling a plumber, if you have the right tools on hand.
Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned DIYer, these are the 10 essential plumbing tools every home should have, along with when and how to use them.
1. Water-Powered Toilet Plunger (Johnny Jolter No-Mess Plunger)
Best for: Toilet clogs, low-flow toilets, stubborn blockages
Not all plungers are created equal. Traditional rubber cup plungers rely on air pressure and often fail or make a mess. A water-powered plunger uses hydraulic force to clear clogs quickly and cleanly.
How to use it:
Fill the chamber with water, seat it firmly over the drain opening, and deliver a controlled pressure shot to push the clog through the trapway.
Why it’s essential:
- Clears clogs fast
- No splashback
- Works better on modern toilets
- Far more sanitary than rubber plungers
This should be the first tool you reach for when a toilet backs up.
2. Toilet Auger (Closet Snake)
Best for: Deep or solid toilet blockages
A toilet auger is designed to reach deep into the toilet trapway without scratching porcelain.
How to use it:
Insert the auger gently, crank the handle, and break apart or retrieve the obstruction.
Pro tip:
Use after a plunger if the clog doesn’t clear.
3. Adjustable Wrench
Best for: Tightening or loosening plumbing fittings
An adjustable wrench is a must-have for supply lines, shutoff valves, and compression fittings.
How to use it:
Always tighten snug — never overtighten, as this can damage fittings.
4. Channel-Lock Pliers
Best for: Gripping pipes, removing slip nuts
These pliers offer extra leverage and are ideal for sink traps and drain assemblies.
Pro tip:
Wrap a rag around chrome fittings to prevent scratches.
5. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
Best for: Sealing threaded connections
A simple roll of plumber’s tape can prevent leaks before they start.
How to use it:
Wrap clockwise around threads 2–3 times before tightening fittings.
6. Drain Snake (Hand Auger)
Best for: Sink, tub, and shower clogs
Hair and soap scum are common culprits in bathroom drains.
How to use it:
Feed the snake into the drain, rotate, and pull debris out.
7. Basin Wrench
Best for: Tight spaces under sinks
Basin wrenches are designed specifically for faucet nuts in hard-to-reach areas.
Why it matters:
You’ll thank yourself the first time you replace a faucet.
8. Bucket
Best for: Catching water during repairs
Simple, inexpensive, and essential.
Pro tip:
Always keep a bucket nearby before disconnecting any plumbing.
9. Pipe Cleaning Brush
Best for: Maintenance and buildup removal
Great for cleaning trap arms and exposed pipe sections.
10. Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Best for: Emergency water removal and drain recovery
A wet/dry vacuum can remove standing water, retrieve dropped items, and even help clear minor clogs.
How These Tools Save You Money
Having these tools on hand can:
- Prevent emergency plumbing calls
- Reduce water damage
- Save hundreds (or thousands) in service fees
- Let you fix minor issues immediately
For most homes, toilet clogs are the #1 plumbing issue, which is why investing in a reliable, no-mess plunger like the Johnny Jolter makes sense.
You don’t need to be a plumber to handle basic plumbing problems — you just need the right tools.
A water-powered plunger, quality hand tools, and a few preventative items can keep your home running smoothly and help you avoid messy, stressful situations.
When it comes to toilet clogs, hydraulic pressure beats suction every time, and the Johnny Jolter No-Mess Plunger is engineered to deliver that power cleanly and effectively.
Get yours today and start clearing clogs FAST with NO MESS at https://johnnyjolter.com/
Leave a review for us on Google, Amazon, or directly at support@johnnyjolter.com
To discover ALL things Johnny Jolter please visit HERE.
Interact with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube!
