A plumbing wrench is a special type of wrench that is designed for use with plumbing fixtures. It is typically made of metal and has a wide, flat head that is used to grip pipes and fittings securely. The wrench also has a long handle that provides leverage when tightening or loosening pipes and fittings.
Types of plumbing wrenches
There are several different types of plumbing wrenches, each of which is designed for a specific purpose.
Pipe wrench: A pipe wrench is a type of wrench that is specifically designed for working with pipes and fittings. It has sturdy jaws that can grip onto round surfaces and a long handle that provides leverage for turning. Pipe wrenches are available in various sizes, depending on the diameter of the pipes that they will be used on. They can also be adjusted to provide either more or less grip, depending on the needs of the user.
Adjustable wrench: An adjustable wrench is a tool that can loosen or tighten nuts and bolts of various sizes. The wrench has jaws that can be adjusted to fit different sizes of nuts and bolts. The wrench jaws are opened or closed by turning a knob at the end of the wrench. An adjustable wrench is a versatile tool that can be used in many situations where a traditional wrench cannot be used.
Basin wrench: A basin wrench is a type of wrench designed for loosening and tightening the nuts and bolts that secure a sink’s faucet assembly to the countertop or basin. It has a long, thin shaft and a ratcheting head that allows it to reach into tight spaces.
Strainer locknut wrench: A strainer locknut wrench is a tool that is used to remove the strainer baskets and locknuts from faucets. The wrench is inserted into the holes in the strainer basket and turned to loosen the nuts and bolts that hold it in place. The wrench can also be used to remove the locknuts that secure the faucet handle to the stem. Strainer locknut wrenches are available in a variety of sizes to fit different faucet models.
Faucet key: A faucet key is a multi-purpose tool that can be used to tighten or loosen faucet nuts and bolts. It is a small, L-shaped tool that fits over the end of the faucet handle. The faucet key is inserted into the slot at the base of the faucet handle and turned to loosen or tighten the nut or bolt. The faucet key is also known as a faucet wrench or faucet socket.
Shower valve socket wrench: A shower valve socket wrench is a specialized tool that is used to remove and replace the valve stem in a shower faucet. The wrench is designed to fit over the valve stem and grip it securely, allowing the user to apply torque and remove the stem without damaging it. While a standard socket wrench can technically be used to remove a shower valve stem, it is not recommended as the wrong size or type of socket can damage the stem, making it difficult or impossible to remove.
What are the most common uses for plumbing wrenches?
The most common use for plumbing wrenches is to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts on pipes and fittings. Wrenches are also used to remove and replace shower valve stems, sink faucets, and strainer baskets. In some cases, wrenches can also be used to grip round objects such as pipes while they are being cut or worked on.
How do you properly care for and store a plumbing wrench?
When not in use, a plumbing wrench should be stored in a dry, safe place where it will not be subject to excessive moisture or temperatures. A toolbox or cabinet is a good option for storing wrenches. Wrenches should always be clean and free of rust before being stored. To clean a wrench, simply wipe it down with a cloth dampened with soapy water. If the wrench is very dirty or rusty, it can be scrubbed with a wire brush to remove any build-up. Once the wrench is clean, dry it off and apply a light coating of oil to prevent rusting.
When using a plumbing wrench, always use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply gentle pressure when using the wrench to avoid stripping nuts or bolts.
What are some of the most common brands of plumbing wrenches?
There are many different brands of plumbing wrenches on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Ridgid, Craftsman, and Kobalt.