Just the Tip

Being well-prepared is very important in the field of plumbing. A plumber’s reputation might take a hit if they show up to a project without the proper tools, which increases the likelihood that the job will be mishandled. Every professional plumber must have several essential pieces of equipment on hand at all times, despite the fact that some tasks can call for specialized instruments. The following are the top five items a plumber must always have.

1. Comprehensive Tool Kit

For a plumber, much like any other tradesperson, the caliber of their work is often reflected in the tools they wield. Their toolbox extends beyond just an assortment of wrenches; it’s a curated collection encompassing pipe cutters, pliers, tape measures, and various specialized tools. The efficiency is amplified when the plumber’s arsenal is complemented by truck tool box accessories. These enhancements not only keep tools organized but also prevent them from becoming hazards during transportation. With the right tools in their arsenal, plumbers can execute tasks with precision and efficiency, ensuring the job is done right the first time, minimizing the risk of inadvertent damage.

2. Plumbing Snake and Drain Auger

In the world of plumbing, clogs are an all-too-familiar foe that often shows resistance to even the most fundamental of treatments, such as using a plunger. When a situation arises, the plumbing snake, sometimes referred to as a drain auger, steps up to the plate as the unsung hero. Can battling even the most tenacious clogs are moving them because of its design, which allows them to get deep into drains. Plumbers can arm themselves with the adaptability necessary to deal with a wide variety of clog conditions if they have an armory that includes manually operated and power-powered variations of the same tool. Because of this flexibility, no obstacle cannot be overcome, regardless of the kind or level of the obstacle.

3. Waterproof Work Gear

Regarding plumbing, water can be both a friend and an enemy. Even though it is the same medium they operate, the pervasive presence of water in leaking pipes or blocked drains can make the working environment dangerous. It is impossible to emphasize the necessity of waterproof work gear, which includes items like boots, gloves, and protective eyewear. Such equipment allows plumbers to easily maneuver their wet environment while maintaining their ability to remain dry and comfortable. This gear is more than just convenient; it also serves as a protective barrier, preventing the wearer from slipping, falling, and being exposed to any pollutants hiding in the water.

4. Advanced Diagnostic Equipment

The plumbing industry has also adapted to the modern technology age. It used to be a guessing game when determining what was wrong with a plumbing system. Still, modern instruments like inspection cameras have eliminated that element of uncertainty. Also, leak detection kits have changed the game by making it possible to find concealed leaks without tearing up walls or crawling around on the floor. Modern plumbing inspections are now easier and more accurate thanks to advances in cutting-edge diagnostic tools. This not only saves precious time but also makes better use of available resources, which in turn leads to better outcomes.

5. Pipe and Drain Inspection Cameras

Pipe and drain inspection cameras represent a remarkable technological advancement in the plumbing industry. These ingenious devices provide plumbers with a direct visual assessment of the inner workings of pipes and drains. By offering a clear, real-time view of the interior, these cameras eliminate the need for conjecture and uncertain diagnoses. This not only expedites the troubleshooting process but also facilitates the precise identification of problems, from blockages to corrosion. As a result, plumbers can formulate targeted repair strategies, minimizing the disruption to the plumbing system and maximizing efficiency. These cameras are a testament to the industry’s commitment to innovation, significantly enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of plumbing repairs and maintenance.

Conclusion

In the vast field of plumbing, readiness is pivotal for success. If plumbers make it a habit to carry these five critical supplies at all times, they may confidently take on almost any job. It is not enough to just eliminate an issue; rather, it is necessary to do it in a way that is both productive and dependable at all times. And in a line of work where credibility is absolutely essential, having the appropriate resources at your disposal may make all the difference.

Tips for taking care of your hoses

If you’re a busy HVACR professional, the pieces of equipment that you use most are often hoses. From performing evacuations and refrigerant recharges to hooking them to a manifold for quick diagnostic checks, hoses are used every day. Let’s walk through some of the best ways to care for and inspect your HVACR vacuum and charging hoses.

Replacing gaskets

Replacing the small black gaskets in your hose connectors is one of the easiest and fastest ways to maintain your hoses. Normal wear and tear can cause the gaskets to deteriorate and create leaks or incomplete connections. When making connections, inspect the gasket. Also, add a drop of refrigerant oil or Nylog to the gasket. This creates a seal between the gasket and the port. Since they need to be changed frequently, store some new gaskets in your shop and teach your team how to spot wear and tear. It’s important to remind techs of the dangers of a worn gasket on the job site.

Cap your hoses

When you aren’t using hoses, cap them on each end with brass caps. This keeps the seals from drying out and ensures hoses stay clean and dry. With this, it helps to set aside hoses that are used for pulling vacuums and use them only for this task. Don’t use them for recovery or normal service. This ensures that your vacuum hoses are always in good condition.

Using hoses on the job site

Sometimes, HVACR connections aren’t in the most convenient locations, and this can cause unnecessary wear and tear on hoses. Be sure to avoid creating sharp bends or excessively twisting them when connecting hoses to the system. Remember, never leave them out in the sun or expose them to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time.

Store hoses correctly

When you’re moving or storing your hoses, be sure not to step on the fittings or store them under heavy equipment. Make sure to properly hang them in a way that prevents them from getting damaged. Since these hoses need to hold vacuums or maintain pressures between 800 and 4000 PSI, they can develop cracks or weak spots if they aren’t stored properly and safely.

Inspect them every time

When you use a hose on the job, inspect it for signs of wear that could include cracks, bulges or other degradation. Each of these threats has the potential to cause a dangerous situation that may lead to equipment damage or injure a tech. Any hose that shows these signs should be removed from the job site and discarded. When using a hose pay attention to reduced flow, blockages or leaks – some of these problems might not be apparent on first inspection.

Pick up some new hoses

If your hoses are worn out or need replacement, add some new ones to your tool bag right away. Learn more about Fieldpiece hoses and accessories here.

By Marty Silverman, General Pipe Cleaners

How to repair a pipe without shutting down the whole building

Q: We had a lot calls for broken water lines this past winter. It was a pain to my customers when the water had to be shut off each time we made a repair. Is there a better way?

A: Yes, you can use a pipe freeze system. It may sound crazy to intentionally freeze a pipe. But, under controlled conditions, creating an ice plug is a fast and easy way to make a repair to the line without shutting off the water to you customers building or home.

It freezes all types of liquids in steel, copper, cast iron, aluminum, and plastic pipes ranging from 1/8″ to 2″. The freeze kit uses carbon dioxide (CO₂) from a dip-tube tank available at most welding supply houses. The cold liquid CO₂ is -110 degrees so it can freeze the water is just minutes. A 1/2″ copper pipe freezes in just 5 minutes, or just 3 minutes in cast iron. The ice plug is so strong it can withstand up to 7000 psi.

So there’s no need to drain water lines, sprinkler systems, or hot water systems before cutting pipe or tubing. You can keep your pressurized system operating while you make repairs.

For more information, or to ask a question, call the Drain Brains^® at General at 800-245-6200, or visit www.askthedrainbrains.com or email info@drainbrain.com.