15 Tools That Make DIY Plumbing Repairs Simple and Stress-Free

You don’t need a plumber for every little leak or clog. Some fixes are so simple, that you can handle them yourself if you’ve got the right plumbing tools and a little patience. A dripping faucet, a slow drain, or a running toilet—these are the kinds of problems that don’t require years of experience, just a solid set of tools and a basic understanding of how things fit together.

Are Plumbing Tools Worth It?

Being able to fix things yourself makes things much easier for you. No waiting around for an appointment, no expensive service fees, and no unnecessary upsells for work you don’t actually need.  And you don’t need an entire plumber’s van worth of gear, but a solid collection of essentials can cover most DIY fixes. 

These are the 15 tools I’d recommend to anyone who wants to handle basic plumbing work without unnecessary stress. 

Pipe Wrench

If you’re dealing with threaded pipes, a pipe wrench is your best friend. It’s got an adjustable jaw with serrated teeth that clamp down tight and let you twist pipes, fittings, and stubborn nuts without slipping. I always keep two on hand—one to hold the pipe steady and another to do the turning. Just be mindful of softer metals like brass, or you’ll leave some nasty bite marks.

Plumber’s Tape

If you’ve ever installed a showerhead or a pipe fitting and noticed water still seeping out of the threads, you probably didn’t use plumber’s tape (also called Teflon tape). This stuff is a game-changer. Wrap it around the threads before screwing on a fitting, and it’ll seal up tiny gaps that cause leaks. It’s cheap, easy to use, and one of those things you should always have on hand.

Adjustable Wrench

A good adjustable wrench is a must for working with supply lines, compression fittings, and hex nuts. Unlike a pipe wrench, its smooth jaws won’t leave scratches or gouges on polished metal. If you’re replacing a faucet or hooking up a new dishwasher, this tool makes the job much easier.

Plunger

People underestimate how powerful a good plunger can be. Sure, it’s your go-to tool for toilet clogs, but it works just as well for sinks, tubs, and shower drains. You just need to use the right type—cup plungers work best on flat surfaces like sinks, while flange plungers are made for toilets. I once saved myself a hefty plumber’s bill just by using a plunger properly instead of reaching for a drain cleaner.

Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake, or drain auger, is what you need when a clog won’t budge with a plunger. It’s basically a flexible metal coil that you feed into the drain to either break up the blockage or pull it out. I once pulled an unholy mass of hair and soap scum out of a shower drain using one of these—trust me, you don’t want to see what’s been sitting in your pipes.

Basin Wrench

If you’ve ever tried reaching the nuts that hold a faucet in place, you probably know how difficult it is with regular tools. A basin wrench is designed specifically for this job, with a long handle and a pivoting head that grips the nuts in tight spaces. I can’t tell you how many times I struggled with a faucet installation before I finally got one of these. 

Pipe Cutter

A pipe cutter is a must if you’re working with copper, PVC, or PEX pipes. It creates a clean, even cut with a simple twist-and-tighten motion, leaving behind smooth edges that are easier to connect. If you’re planning any pipe replacements, this tool is a lifesaver.

Hacksaw

Even with a pipe cutter, a hacksaw is still worth having. It’s great for cutting through metal pipes, stubborn bolts, and even old brackets. Just make sure to keep extra blades on hand—plumbing work dulls them faster than you’d think.

PEX Crimping Tool

PEX piping is the modern alternative to copper, and if you ever need to work with it, you’ll need a PEX crimping tool. It secures metal crimp rings around fittings and creates a tight, leak-proof seal. If you’re planning any plumbing updates, learning how to use this tool can save you a lot of money on installation.

Propane Torch

If you’re dealing with copper pipes, a propane torch is the key to making solid, leak-free connections. It heats the pipe and fitting and allows you to apply solder that bonds them together. Just don’t forget the flux—it helps the solder flow evenly and prevents corrosion inside the joint.

Channel Lock Pliers

Also called tongue-and-groove pliers, these are incredibly versatile. They give you a solid grip on pipes, fittings, and nuts, and make them indispensable for everything from under-sink plumbing to tightening slip nuts on drain pipes.

Bucket and Towels

Plumbing work is messy. Having a sturdy bucket to catch water and some old towels to mop up spills can save you from unexpected floods. If you’re opening a P-trap or disconnecting a water line, always assume there’s more water left inside than you think.

Plumber’s Putty

When installing sink drains or other fixtures, a plumber’s putty is what you need. It stays soft and pliable which makes it easy to create a leak-proof seal. Unlike silicone, it doesn’t dry out, so you can remove or adjust the fitting later if needed.

Deburring Tool

Cutting pipes often leaves rough or sharp edges that can cause leaks if not properly smoothed out. A deburring tool quickly removes those imperfections and ensures a better fit when joining pipes. It’s a simple tool, but one that makes a huge difference.

Tubing Cutter

If you’re working with copper pipes, a tubing cutter is one of the best investments you can make. It’s designed to create a precise, clean cut without crushing or warping the pipe. Just tighten it around the pipe, rotate it a few times, and you’ll get a smooth, professional-grade cut.