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60+ Essential Plumber’s Tools: The Ultimate Truck Checklist

Are Your Plumber’s Tools Ready for Anything?

For professional plumbers in Toronto, a well-stocked truck isn’t just a convenience—it’s the backbone of every plumbing business. Arriving at a job site with the right plumber’s tools means efficiency, professionalism, and the ability to tackle any challenge thrown your way. Missing a crucial tool of plumbers can lead to wasted time, extra trips, and frustrated customers.

Everest Plumbing May 21, 2025
essential tools for plumber 2025 full truck checklist
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This comprehensive plumbing tool list covers over 60 essential items, organized by the type of work they address. We’ve scoured insights from industry leaders and experienced professionals to bring you the ultimate guide to equipping your plumbing service vehicle. Whether you’re an apprentice building your collection or a seasoned pro looking to optimize, this list of plumbing tools will ensure you’re prepared. We’ll cover everything from fundamental hand tools for plumbers to more advanced tools for plumber specialists.

Need only shortlist of basic plumbing tools, here is the list for 11 Basic Plumbing Tools You Need in Your Arsenal for DIY Plumbing

The Essential Plumber's Tools: Organized by Job & Necessity

Having the right plumbing tools for the specific task at hand is critical. Here’s how we’ve broken them down

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1. Wrenches & Gripping Tools: The Foundation of a Plumber's Toolkit

These are the workhorses for tightening, loosening, and gripping pipes and fittings.

images of all the wrenches and gripping's tools for foundation of plumber toolkit
Foundation of Plumber’s Toolkit Images
Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Pipe Wrenches (Various Sizes: 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″, 14″, 18″, 24″) The quintessential plumber’s tool for gripping and turning pipes and fittings. Serrated jaws grip round surfaces; different sizes accommodate various pipe diameters. Essential for almost all pipe work.
Adjustable Wrenches (Crescent Wrenches – Various Sizes) Versatile for nuts and bolts of different sizes where a pipe wrench isn’t suitable. Adjusts to fit hexagonal and square nuts/bolts on fixtures, supply lines, and fittings.
Basin Wrench (Telescoping & Fixed) Specifically designed for reaching and turning nuts in tight spaces, like faucet mounts under sinks. Long shaft and swiveling jaw allow access to hard-to-reach nuts securing faucets and fixtures.
Strap Wrenches (Rubber & Metal) For gripping and turning polished or plastic pipes and fittings without scratching or marring them. A strap wraps around the pipe, providing grip without damaging the surface. Ideal for chrome, PVC, and other delicate materials.
Internal Pipe Wrench / Nipple Extractor Set To remove broken pipe threads or nipples from fittings. Inserts into the broken pipe end, expands to grip, allowing removal.
Socket Wrench Set (Standard & Deep Sockets) For quickly tightening or loosening nuts and bolts, especially in recessed areas. Sockets fit over nuts/bolts, ratchet mechanism allows for rapid turning.
Valve Socket Wrench Set Specifically designed for installing and removing shower valves. Deep sockets fit over valve stems.
Monkey Wrench Similar to a pipe wrench but with smoother jaws, good for square or hex fittings. Turning large nuts and bolts where marring isn’t a concern.
Chain Wrench / Chain Tongs For very large diameter pipes or awkwardly shaped fittings where standard pipe wrenches won’t fit. A chain wraps around the pipe providing immense gripping power.

 

2. Cutting, Reaming & Deburring Tools: For Clean Pipe Preparation

Precise cuts and smooth edges are vital for leak-free connections. This category of plumber tools ensures just that.

set of tools for cutting, reaming, deburring ,
Images of ToolKits For Reaming Deburring and Cutting
Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Tubing Cutters (Various Sizes) For clean, square cuts on copper, brass, aluminum, and thin-wall plastic pipes. Clamps onto the pipe; a cutting wheel is tightened and rotated around the pipe.
PVC/PEX/Plastic Pipe Cutters (Ratchet & Scissor Style) Specifically designed for cutting various plastic pipes (PVC, CPVC, PEX, PE). Ratcheting action or scissor action provides leverage for clean cuts without deforming the pipe.
Hacksaw (with various blades) A versatile cutting tool for pipes, bolts, and other materials when other cutters aren’t suitable. Manual sawing action; blade choice depends on material.
Reciprocating Saw (e.g., Sawzall) & Blades Powerful cutting for demolition, cutting pipes in tight spaces, or through wood/drywall to access plumbing. Electric saw with various blade types for different materials.
Pipe Reamer / Deburring Tool To remove burrs and smooth the inside and outside edges of cut pipes for proper fitting and flow. Inserted into or rotated around the pipe end to shave off rough edges.
Hole Saw Kit For drilling large diameter holes through wood, drywall, or even tile for pipe penetrations. Attaches to a drill; various sizes for different pipe diameters.
Jab Saw / Drywall Saw For manually cutting access holes in drywall. Pointed tip punches through drywall, then saws.

3. Joining & Sealing Tools: Creating Leak-Proof Connections

These tools of plumbers are essential for assembling and sealing pipes and fittings.

 

toolkits for joining and sealing
Toolset for Joining And Sealing
Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Pipe Threader (Manual or Powered) To cut threads onto the ends of steel or iron pipes for creating screw-on connections. Dies cut threads as the tool is rotated around the pipe end. Powered versions are an advanced tool.
PEX Crimp/Expansion Tool Kit For making secure connections on PEX tubing using crimp rings or expansion fittings. Crimper compresses a ring over the PEX and fitting; expander stretches the PEX to fit over a fitting, then it shrinks back.
ProPress Tool (Press Fitting Tool) A modern, fast way to make watertight connections on copper and stainless steel pipes without soldering. Jaws press a specialized fitting onto the pipe with immense force.
Soldering Torch Kit (Propane/MAPP Gas) & Accessories For soldering copper pipes and fittings. Torch heats the copper; solder is applied to melt and flow into the joint. Includes flux, solder, sandcloth, fire-resistant cloth.
Caulking Gun For applying caulk and sealants around fixtures, pipes, and joints. Holds a tube of caulk and dispenses it evenly.
Teflon Tape (PTFE Tape) & Pipe Dope To seal threaded pipe connections and prevent leaks. Tape is wrapped around male threads; dope is applied to threads before assembly.

4. Drain Cleaning & Inspection Tools: Tackling Clogs and Diagnostics

A significant part of a plumber’s work involves clearing blockages and inspecting lines. This plumbing tool list for drains is crucial.

Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Plungers (Cup & Flange) The first line of defense for clearing simple clogs in sinks, toilets, and drains. Creates suction and pressure to dislodge blockages. Cup for sinks/tubs, flange for toilets.
Hand Auger / Drain Snake (Manual) For clearing clogs further down the drain line than a plunger can reach. A flexible cable is fed into the drain and rotated to break up or retrieve a clog.
Toilet Auger / Closet Auger Specifically designed to clear toilet clogs without scratching the porcelain bowl. Features a protective rubber boot and a J-bend to navigate the toilet trap.
Powered Drain Cleaning Machine / Drum Auger For clearing tougher blockages in main sewer lines and larger drains. An advanced tool. Electric motor spins a heavy-duty cable with various cutting heads.
Sewer Jetter / Hydro-Jetter Uses high-pressure water to blast away grease, roots, and debris from sewer lines. A specialized nozzle on a hose propels itself through the pipe, scouring the walls.
Drain Inspection Camera / Borescope To visually inspect the inside of pipes for blockages, breaks, root intrusion, or other issues. An advanced tool. A camera on a flexible cable sends images to a monitor.
Shop Vacuum (Wet/Dry) For cleaning up water spills, debris, or sucking out water from fixtures before removal. Powerful vacuum capable of handling liquids and solids.

5. Measurement & Layout Tools: For Precision and Planning

Accuracy is key in plumbing to ensure proper fit and function.

Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Tape Measure (25ft or longer) Essential for all measurements – pipe lengths, fixture placement, etc. Standard measuring device.
Level (Torpedo, 2ft, 4ft) To ensure pipes are sloped correctly for drainage and fixtures are installed level. Bubble vial indicates level or plumb.
Laser Level For establishing accurate level lines over longer distances, especially for pipe runs. An advanced tool. Projects a laser beam to mark a level line.
Markers (Permanent) & Pencils/Crayons For marking pipes for cutting, layout lines on walls/floors. Writing on various surfaces.
Chalk Line For snapping long, straight lines for pipe runs or fixture layouts. String coated in chalk is plucked to transfer a line.

6. General Hand Tools & Utility: The Everyday Essentials

These versatile hand tools for plumbers are used across a wide range of tasks.

Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Screwdriver Set (Phillips, Flathead, various sizes) For countless tasks from fixture installation to accessing panels. Driving and removing screws.
Pliers Set (Channel Locks, Needle Nose, Linesman, Slip Joint) Gripping, bending, cutting wires, holding nuts/bolts. Channel locks are key. Various jaw types for specific gripping or cutting needs.
Hammer (Claw & Sledge) Driving nails, demolition, persuading stubborn parts. Striking tool. Sledge for heavier work.
Utility Knife & Blades Cutting various materials – packaging, tubing, scoring. Sharp, retractable blade.
Pry Bar / Crowbar For demolition, prying apart components, creating leverage. Levering and prying.
Files (Round, Flat, Half-Round) Smoothing metal edges, shaping, deburring. Abrasive surface removes material.
Wire Strippers/Crimpers For electrical work related to pumps, water heaters, disposals. Stripping insulation from wires, crimping connectors.
Multimeter For diagnosing electrical issues with water heaters, pumps, etc. Measures voltage, current, resistance.
Stud Finder To locate studs in walls for secure pipe mounting or fixture installation. Detects density changes behind drywall.
Flashlight / Headlamp / Work Lights Essential for working in dark spaces. Headlamps offer hands-free use. Provides illumination.

7. Safety & Protection Gear: Prioritizing Plumber Well-being

Safety should always come first. These plumber’s tools protect you on the job.

Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Safety Glasses / Goggles Protects eyes from debris, splashes, and sparks. Worn over the eyes.
Work Gloves (Heavy-duty, Waterproof, Cut-resistant) Protects hands from cuts, abrasions, chemicals, and hot/cold pipes. Worn on hands.
Knee Pads Protects knees when working in low positions for extended periods. Worn over knees.
Respirator / Dust Masks Protects lungs from dust, fumes, and airborne particles. Worn over mouth and nose.
Hearing Protection (Earplugs/Earmuffs) Protects hearing when using loud power tools or in noisy environments. Worn in or over ears.
Hard Hat (if required) Protects head from falling objects or impact. Worn on the head.
First-Aid Kit For treating minor injuries on site. Contains bandages, antiseptics, etc.

8. Miscellaneous & Consumables: The Often-Forgotten Necessities

These items might seem small, but they are vital for smooth operations.

Name of Tool Why Needed How It’s Used
Buckets (5-gallon) Catching water, carrying tools, mixing, debris. Multipurpose container.
Rags / Towels Cleaning up spills, wiping hands and tools. Absorbent material.
Drop Cloths / Tarps Protecting customer’s floors and belongings. Spread over work area.
Assorted Screws, Nuts, Bolts, Washers For various fastening needs. A good selection prevents extra trips to the store.
Duct Tape / Electrical Tape Temporary fixes, bundling, insulating. Versatile adhesive tapes.
Shims (Wood/Plastic) Leveling fixtures, especially toilets. Tapered pieces for fine adjustments.
Sandcloth / Emery Cloth Cleaning pipe ends before soldering or applying sealant. Abrasive cloth for polishing metal.
Extension Cords (Heavy Duty) Powering tools where outlets are scarce. Extends reach of power tools.
Ladder (Step Ladder, Extension Ladder) Reaching high areas. For safe elevated access.
Fire Extinguisher (ABC rated) Essential safety item, especially when soldering. For putting out small fires.
Digital Device (Tablet/Smartphone) Accessing manuals, invoicing, communication, documentation. For information and business management on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Plumber's Tools

Q1: What are the absolute most basic plumber’s tools every beginner should have?

For beginners, a solid foundation includes a set of pipe wrenches (10″ & 14″), adjustable wrenches, basin wrench, tubing cutter, PEX cutter (if working with PEX), plungers, a hand auger, screwdrivers, channel lock pliers, a hammer, tape measure, level, and essential safety gear (glasses, gloves). This initial plumber tool list covers many common tasks.

Q2: How do I choose the right quality for my plumbing tools?

Invest in the best quality plumber’s tools you can afford, especially for items you use daily like wrenches and cutters. Reputable brands often offer better durability, precision, and ergonomics, which pays off in the long run. Good tools of plumbers are an investment, not an expense.

Q3: Are there specific advanced tools for plumbers who specialize in certain areas?

Yes! For example, plumbers specializing in drain cleaning will invest heavily in advanced sewer jetters and larger drain machines. Those doing a lot of new construction or repipes might prioritize ProPress tools or powered pipe threaders. Diagnostic specialists will have high-end inspection cameras and leak detection equipment. The list of plumbing tools expands with specialization.

Q4: How often should I inspect and maintain my plumbing tools?

Regularly. Clean your plumbing tools after each use, especially drain cleaning equipment. Check wrenches for worn jaws, cutters for dull blades, and power tools for frayed cords. Proper maintenance extends tool life and ensures safety.

Q5: What’s one often overlooked tool that can make a big difference?

A: Good lighting! A quality headlamp or versatile work light can significantly improve visibility in tight, dark spaces, making the job safer and easier. It’s a simple but highly effective tool of plumbers. Also, a good wet/dry shop vacuum is invaluable for cleanup.

Be Prepared, Be Professional

Stocking your truck with this comprehensive list of plumbing tools is a significant step towards efficiency, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. While this plumbing tool list aims to be exhaustive, always adapt it to your specific service area and the types of jobs you encounter most frequently. Having the right plumber’s tools on hand means you’re ready to tackle any plumbing challenge with confidence.
What are your must-have plumber tools that didn’t make the list or that you can’t live without? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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