As a homeowner, few situations are more frustrating than a plumbing problem. However, not all issues require the immediate assistance of a plumber. Having the right plumbing supplies and knowing how to use them can save you considerable money on repairs. If you’re just starting out in a new home, keep the items below for emergencies. 

What Plumbing Supplies Should You Have in the Home?

1. Wrenches

Sometimes pipes can become loose, allowing water to leak from the fixture. When this happens, you’ll need a few different types of wrenches to adjust the plumbing. This will stop leaks before they cause significant water damage and cause mold to grow. Specifically, you will need a pipe wrench for gripping and tightening pipes and a basin wrench for removing broken faucets.

2. Slip-Joint Pliers

If you accidentally drop an item down the drain and need to retrieve it, this is a time-consuming process without the right tools. Instead of calling a plumber to take the pipes apart, you can use slip-joint pliers. This tool features flexibility and two sets of teeth, allowing you to grip everything from wedding rings to bolts. 

3. Plunger

One of the most common and useful items that all homeowners should have is a plunger to remove clogs. This is because chemical drain cleaners can corrode the pipes in the home and harm the bacteria colony in a septic tank. However, plungers are safe to use. They are available in two varieties: a cup plunger for sinks and a flange plunger for toilets. 

4. Drain Snake

Another tool for unclogging drains is a flexible auger, also known as a drain snake. If the plunger cannot remove a clog, you can deploy the auger to clear out the obstruction manually. It’s an efficient tool to keep on hand to remove hair that is obstructing sink or shower drains, and it won’t damage the pipes. 

5. Plumber’s Tape

This tape is necessary for temporarily sealing leaky pipes. To use it, wrap it around the leaking component several times until water stops coming out. It even works when you need to hold pipes together, as it will seal pipe threads. Although it is a quick fix for leaks that require further repairs, it will prevent costly water damage until you resolve the issue fully. 

If you need plumbing supplies, head to Specialized Plumbing Parts Supply in Edgewood, KY. As the go-to source for quality plumbing parts in northern Kentucky, they have everything you need to install, maintain, and repair your plumbing system. Their extensive inventory includes more than 14,000 plumbing products, from kitchen faucets to sump pumps. To learn more about their products, visit them online. Call (859) 341-6666 to speak to a team member about your needs.