If you’re a professional plumber or a DIY enthusiast in New Zealand, having the necessary plumbing tools is key to solving problems quickly and saving time and money. This list of comprehensive plumbing tools contains everything from basic hand tools to specialised equipment that every toolbox should contain.
Why Having the Right Plumbing Tools Matters
Before moving on to our plumbing tools list, you should know why buying good-quality plumbing tools is the best choice. The latest plumbing tools are not only durable but also accurate, prevent damage to the fixtures, and ultimately save time and money on repairs.
The 20 Essential Plumbing Tools for 2025
Basic Hand Tools for Plumbing
- Pipe Wrenches
There are different sises (8” to 24”) of these adjustable tools, which are mainly intended to grasp and rotate pipes.
- Adjustable Wrenches
They are helpful in working with supply lines and compression fittings. You need to have at least two different sises in your kit.
- Basin Wrench
This plumbing wrench is very specialised and is made to get at nuts behind basins and sinks, which are tightened by a long handle with a spring mechanism.
- Pliers Set
Every plumber must be equipped with an array of specific pliers to suit diverse needs, such as:
- Channel-lock pliers are for picking up small items
- Needle-nose pliers help a lot in detailed work in confined areas
- Slip-joint pliers can be used anywhere
- Locking pliers provide strong support for different tasks
- Tubing Cutters
Like their big brothers, mini tubing cutters are also a necessity for plumbers working in confined spaces.
Specialised Plumbing Tools
- Plungers
A quality plunger is one tool that every household should have.
- A cup plunger for use in sinks and tubs
- The flange plunger is strictly for toilets
- An accordion plunger for violent clogs
- Drain Augers/Plumbing Snakes
Drain augers can quickly reach any blocked pipe.
- Drain cleaning equipment, which you can use when needed
- Drain snakes that can be moved powerfully by electricity.
- A toilet plunger that has a specially coated handle
- Pipe Inspection Camera
These wireless devices let you see inside pipes to identify blockages and damage without destructive exploration.
- Pipe Bender
A good-quality pipe bender prevents kinks and ensures proper water flow when working with copper and PEX piping.
- Thread Sealing Tools
Proper sealing prevents leaks, making these essential plumbing tools:
- PTFE tape (Teflon tape)
- Pipe joint compound
- Thread-sealing cord
Cutting and Joining Tools
- Hacksaw
One of the most useful and, indeed, the simplest plumbing tools is a hacksaw with replaceable blades, which can be used for cutting pipes, bolts, and other materials.
- Propane Torch
A propane torch is the best tool for soldering copper pipes and fittings. The flame of modern plumbing tools offers precision, self-ignition, and adjustability.
- Crimping Tools
Crimping tools are used to secure fittings in plumbing installations. New battery-run tools are better for plumbers as they guarantee the same competence with less effort.
- PVC Primer and Cement
These chemicals can be used to join PVC pipes, resulting in a water-sealed material. Hence, they are a must-have in a plumbing toolkit.
- Press Fitting Tool
These tools are used for quick, safe, and flame-free joining of copper pipes.
Diagnostic and Safety Tools
- Water Pressure Gauge
These are some low-cost plumbing tools that can be connected to outdoor spigots or washing machines.
- Leak Detection Tools
Electronic leak detectors with ultrasonic technology or moisture sensors are the latest additions to the modern plumbing toolkit, which can quickly locate hidden water problems.
- Pipe Locator
Not knowing where the running pipes are before cutting into walls or floors is a big no-no. Magnetic and electronic pipe locators are now the most important plumbing tools at an affordable price.
- Safety Equipment
- Waterproof gloves
- Safety glasses
- Knee pads
- Headlamp or work light
- Plumbing-Specific Tool Bag
For better organisation of your plumbing tools and to avoid damage, clean them and use the best tool bag on the market. It usually comes with a variety of waterproof compartments and specialised holders for various plumbing essential tools.
Investing in Quality Plumbing Tools in NZ
We advise investing in high-quality accessories for your plumbing work. It may be expensive at first, but they will serve you better and last longer.
Maintaining Your Plumbing Tools
To maximise the lifespan of your plumbing tools:
- Clean and dry tools after each use
- Apply light oil to moving parts regularly
- Store in a dry environment
- Replace worn parts promptly
Conclusion
Whether you’re a professional plumber or a DIY enthusiast, in New Zealand, you will save a lot of time, money, and nerves if you use the right plumbing tools for every situation. This detailed plumbing tools list will help you choose the right ones for any plumbing work.
Need tailored advice or unsure which tool is right for your needs? Contact UR Plumber; we bring years of hands-on plumbing experience to the table. Our expert team will recommend tools that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. This list of plumbing tools is designed to help you choose the most essential gear for any plumbing job, regardless of your skill level. Call us at 027 856 7712 today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the absolute must-have plumbing tools for beginners?
For those just starting out and dealing with basic plumbing issues, we suggest purchasing these five essential tools: an adjustable wrench, pliers, a plunger, PTFE thread sealant tape, and a basin wrench. UR Plumber can help you determine the most suitable tools for common household problems.
Can I use regular cutting tools for plumbing pipes, or do I need specialised cutters?
Ordinary cutting tools can be used if there is no other option; however, it is necessary to have specialised pipe cutters that are capable of providing clean, square cuts for proper sealing and preventing leaks in the future.
How do I know if my plumbing tools need to be replaced?
Plumbing tools should be replaced when they show wear, rust, or decreased efficiency. Look out for pipe wrenches with worn-out teeth, pliers with damaged jaws, or cutters that no longer do well. UR Plumber can help with the inspection to help you decide which ones to let go.
Are battery-powered plumbing tools worth the investment for home use?
For homeowners who often handle plumbing jobs, battery-powered tools like press fitting systems and power augers can reduce labour time and physical fatigue to a great extent. However, they do require more effort. UR Plumber not only helps with all plumbing, gas fitting, drain laying and roofing repairs, but we also advise customers on anything related to them.
How do I properly maintain my plumbing tools to extend their lifespan?
To keep the tools working for a longer time, clean and dry them after use, lubricate the movable parts with machine oil, and avoid heavy oiling. Also, keep them in a safe place. If you want your tools to be in mint condition, UR Plumber provides guides about maintenance. Contact us at 027 856 7712, or visit our online store for a range of high-quality kitchen and bathroom upgrades.