Whether you’re tackling a minor leak, unclogging a drain, or upgrading fixtures, having the right plumbing tools makes all the difference. While some plumbing projects require the expertise of professionals like HydroWorks Plumbing, there are plenty of everyday tools that can help homeowners handle small repairs and maintenance.
If you’re shopping at Bunnings, Australia’s go-to hardware store, here are some essential plumbing tools worth keeping in your toolbox:
1. Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench is a plumber’s classic tool. Its adjustable jaw grips round objects like pipes and fittings, making it indispensable for tightening and loosening threaded connections. Having two wrenches—one to hold and one to turn—gives you maximum leverage.
2. Adjustable Spanner (Shifter)
For nuts and bolts that don’t need the heavy grip of a pipe wrench, an adjustable spanner (or “shifter”) is perfect. Bunnings offers a wide range of sizes, and a medium-size adjustable spanner is often enough for most home plumbing tasks.
3. Plunger
Probably the most underrated tool in any home. A good-quality cup plunger for sinks and a flange plunger for toilets are must-haves. They create suction and pressure to clear blockages quickly without chemicals.
4. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
Also known as thread seal tape, this simple roll of white tape is essential for sealing threaded pipe connections. A few wraps around the thread prevent leaks and ensure a watertight fit—something every DIYer should have on hand.
5. Basin Wrench
If you’ve ever tried tightening or loosening a tap nut under a sink, you know how tricky the angle can be. A basin wrench’s long shaft and swiveling jaw make this job simple. It’s one of those tools you won’t use often, but when you need it, nothing else will do.
6. Drain Auger (Plumber’s Snake)
For stubborn clogs that a plunger can’t fix, a drain auger (manual or drill-powered) is the next step. It feeds into the pipe to physically break apart or pull out blockages. Bunnings carries compact versions suitable for household use.
7. Hacksaw
Pipes, bolts, and hardware sometimes need cutting, and a hacksaw is a versatile tool for the job. Make sure you keep spare blades handy—plumbing tasks can wear them down quickly.
8. Bucket & Towels
Not high-tech, but absolutely essential. A sturdy bucket and a few old towels save you from messy clean-ups during even the simplest plumbing job.