Top Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

January 10, 2025

Plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly, from leaky faucets to clogged drains. While calling a professional plumber is often the best solution, having basic plumbing tools at your disposal can help you tackle minor issues quickly and efficiently. Here are the top plumbing tools every homeowner in Charlotte should consider adding to their toolkit.

1. Plunger

A plunger is a must-have tool for any home. It’s simple yet effective for unclogging sinks, toilets, and tubs. Invest in both a cup plunger (for sinks) and a flange plunger (designed for toilets) to handle different types of clogs.

2. Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench is invaluable for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts, especially those on pipes and plumbing fixtures. Look for one with a comfortable grip and a wide jaw capacity to suit various plumbing tasks.

3. Pipe Wrench

For more heavy-duty plumbing tasks, a pipe wrench is essential. It provides the leverage needed to tighten or loosen threaded pipes, fittings, and joints. Owning a pair of pipe wrenches (one for holding and the other for turning) can be especially helpful.

4. Drain Snake (Auger)

For clogs that a plunger can’t clear, a drain snake is the next best option. This tool can reach deep into drains to dislodge hair, grease, and other debris causing blockages.

5. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)

Plumber’s tape is a simple yet effective tool for sealing pipe threads. It helps prevent leaks when connecting threaded pipes and fittings. Keep a roll in your toolkit for quick fixes.

Know When to Call a Professional

While these tools can help you handle basic plumbing tasks, some issues require the expertise of a professional plumber. If you’re dealing with a major leak, water heater problems, or a stubborn clog, don’t hesitate to contact Charlotte Plumbing for prompt and reliable service.

Trust Charlotte Plumbing

Equipping your home with these essential plumbing tools can save time and money while providing peace of mind. Whether it’s a minor leak or a simple clog, being prepared allows you to address issues quickly and efficiently. For everything else, contact Charlotte Plumbing to deliver expert solutions for all your plumbing needs.

< Older Post Newer Post >

The Right Way to Use Plumber’s Putty vs. Teflon Tape

May 2, 2025

If you’ve tackled a plumbing project at home, you’ve probably come across two common sealing products: plumber’s putty and Teflon tape (also known as thread seal tape). Both play an important role in preventing leaks — but they’re not interchangeable. At Charlotte Plumbing, we often see DIY jobs go sideways simply because the wrong sealant was used in the wrong place.

How to Replace a Toilet Flapper to Fix a Running Toilet

May 2, 2025

A running toilet is more than just an annoyance — it’s a steady drain on your water bill and a potential sign of wear inside your tank. One of the most common causes? A worn-out toilet flapper. At Charlotte Plumbing, we help homeowners across the Charlotte area resolve small issues before they turn into costly problems. If you’re the DIY type, here’s a straightforward guide to replacing a toilet flapper and stopping that constant running.

The Pros and Cons of Water Filtration Systems for Your Home

May 2, 2025

Clean, safe water is something every homeowner wants — and a whole-home water filtration system is one way to get it. But are these systems right for everyone? At Charlotte Plumbing, we install and service water filtration systems across the Charlotte area, and we’ve seen firsthand the benefits (and limitations) they can bring. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if a water filtration system makes sense for your home.

How to Safely Use Chemical Drain Cleaners (And When to Avoid Them)

May 2, 2025

Chemical drain cleaners might seem like an easy fix for a clogged sink or slow-draining tub, but they come with risks that homeowners should understand before reaching for the bottle. At Charlotte Plumbing, we believe in educating our customers so they can make safe, informed decisions about their home’s plumbing. Here’s what you need to know about using chemical drain cleaners — and when it's best to call in the professionals.

The Best Plumbing Upgrades for Increasing Home Value

April 4, 2025

When it comes to home improvement, plumbing upgrades aren’t always top of mind—but they should be. At Charlotte Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the Charlotte area invest in smart, value-adding upgrades that not only improve daily comfort but also boost resale potential. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to modernize your home, plumbing improvements can make a lasting impact.

How to Winterize Outdoor Plumbing and Prevent Freezing

April 4, 2025

As temperatures begin to drop in the Charlotte area, it’s essential to protect your home’s outdoor plumbing from freezing. At Charlotte Plumbing, we often see costly damage caused by burst pipes and neglected winter prep—most of which could be avoided with a few proactive steps. If you’re unsure how to get your plumbing ready for cold weather, this guide will walk you through the basics of winterization.

The Impact of Tree Roots on Underground Plumbing

April 4, 2025

When you think about plumbing problems, you probably picture leaky faucets or clogged drains. But some of the most serious issues can happen underground, where tree roots silently wreak havoc on sewer lines and drain pipes. For many Charlotte-area homeowners, root intrusion is an invisible threat—until major damage is already done.

Understanding Water Softeners: Do You Need One?

April 4, 2025

If you’ve ever noticed soap that won’t lather, dishes with cloudy spots, or scale buildup around your faucets, you might be dealing with hard water. This is a common issue for many Charlotte-area homeowners, and one effective solution is a water softener. But what exactly does a water softener do, and how do you know if your home needs one?

How to Properly Shut Off Your Water in an Emergency

March 14, 2025

Water emergencies can happen at any time, whether it’s a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a major leak. Knowing how to quickly and correctly shut off your water supply can prevent costly damage and save you from unnecessary stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely turn off your water in an emergency.

Plumbing Safety 101: Precautions Every Homeowner Should Take

March 14, 2025

Your home’s plumbing system is essential for daily life, but working with it can pose risks if proper safety precautions aren’t followed. Whether you’re tackling a minor repair or simply maintaining your system, it’s important to stay safe and avoid costly mistakes. Here are the top plumbing safety tips every homeowner should know.