Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney

pipe wrench

Understanding Plumbing Costs and Quotes


When it comes to maintaining your home, plumbing is one of the essential services youll likely need at some point. Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Sydney Homeowner Should Know . For those in Sydney, understanding plumbing costs and quotes is crucial, especially if youre new to hiring a plumber. This guide aims to demystify the process, helping you make informed decisions and ensuring you receive fair service and pricing.


First, its important to understand what influences plumbing costs. Several factors can affect the price of plumbing services in Sydney. pipe wrench One of the primary considerations is the complexity of the job. For instance, a simple task like fixing a leaky faucet will cost significantly less than installing a new hot water system. The time required to complete the job also plays a role; more extensive projects naturally demand more hours, resulting in higher labor costs.


Another factor is the materials needed. Depending on the repair or installation, specific parts or pipes might need to be sourced, impacting the overall cost.

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney - Threaded pipe

  1. Drain (plumbing)
  2. pipe
  3. Plastic pipework
  4. Water tank
  5. Plumbing code
  6. Drain cleaner
High-quality materials might be more expensive upfront but could save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs.


Geographical location within Sydney can also influence pricing. Plumbers operating in the city center might charge more due to higher operating costs compared to those in the suburbs. Additionally, emergency services or after-hours calls often come with a premium, reflecting the convenience and urgency of such situations.


When seeking a plumber, getting multiple quotes is a wise practice. This not only gives you a benchmark for what is reasonable but also provides insight into how different plumbers assess the same job. When reviewing quotes, ensure they include a detailed breakdown of costs, including labor, materials, and any additional fees. Beware of quotes that seem unusually low; they might not account for all necessary work or could compromise on quality.


Communication is key when hiring a plumber. Dont hesitate to ask questions or seek clarifications regarding the quote. A reputable plumber will be transparent about their pricing and willing to explain the rationale behind it. This interaction can also give you a sense of their professionalism and reliability.


It's also beneficial to check reviews and references. Past customer experiences can provide valuable insights into the plumbers reliability, quality of work, and adherence to quoted prices.

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney - pipe wrench

  • Plumber wrench
  • Pipe
  • Drain (plumbing)
  • pipe
Websites and community forums often have reviews specific to Sydney-based plumbers, offering localized insights.


Lastly, consider the plumbers qualifications and experience. Licensed plumbers are required to adhere to industry standards, providing an additional layer of assurance regarding the quality of their work.

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney - Sewerage

  1. Sewer gas
  2. Pump
  3. Air gap (plumbing)
  4. Flushing trough
  5. Plumbing fixture
  6. Uniform Plumbing Code
  7. Nipple (plumbing)
Experience often correlates with efficiency and expertise, potentially saving you money in the long term by avoiding recurring issues.


In conclusion, understanding plumbing costs and quotes in Sydney involves considering several factors, including job complexity, material quality, and location. By obtaining multiple quotes and communicating effectively with potential plumbers, you can ensure you receive fair pricing and quality service. Remember to do your research and choose a qualified professional to safeguard your home's plumbing needs.

Checking Credentials and Licensing Requirements


When embarking on the journey to hire a plumber in Sydney, one of the most critical steps is checking credentials and licensing requirements. This process is not just a bureaucratic formality but a crucial measure to ensure the safety and quality of the plumbing work in your home or business. For beginners, understanding why these checks are necessary and how to go about them can make the difference between a successful hiring experience and a potentially costly mistake.


In Sydney, as in other parts of Australia, plumbing is a regulated trade. This means that to legally perform plumbing work, a professional must be licensed. The licensing process is designed to ensure that plumbers have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to perform their duties safely and effectively. Checking a plumber's credentials is your assurance that they have met these rigorous standards set by the relevant authorities.


The first step in verifying a plumber's credentials is to ask for their license number. In New South Wales, plumbing licenses are issued by NSW Fair Trading, and you can easily verify a license by visiting their website. This verification process will confirm that the plumber is currently licensed and in good standing.

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney - pipe wrench

  • Plastic pipework
  • Water tank
  • Plumbing code
  • Drain cleaner
  • Sewer gas
  • Pump
It is important to note that there are different levels of licensing, such as a tradesperson certificate and a contractor license, each allowing the holder to perform different types of work. Ensuring that your plumber holds the appropriate type of license for the job you need is crucial.


Beyond licensing, it is also wise to check a plumber's insurance coverage. Adequate insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damages during the plumbing work. A reputable plumber should carry both public liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. Do not hesitate to ask for proof of insurance and make sure it is current.


In addition to these formal credentials, consider the plumber's reputation and experience. While licensing and insurance are non-negotiable, they are complemented by a history of quality work and satisfied customers. Look for reviews online or ask the plumber for references from past clients. A skilled plumber will have a trail of positive feedback and will be willing to share their success stories.


Finally, remember that communication is key. A competent plumber should be able to explain their credentials, the scope of work, and the costs involved in clear and understandable terms. If at any point you feel uncertain or pressured, it may be worth considering other options.


In conclusion, checking credentials and licensing is a vital part of hiring a plumber in Sydney. It protects you from unqualified individuals and ensures that the plumbing work in your property meets high safety and quality standards. By taking the time to verify licenses, check insurance, and assess reputation and communication skills, you can hire with confidence and peace of mind.

Evaluating Customer Reviews and Testimonials


When it comes to hiring a plumber in Sydney, evaluating customer reviews and testimonials is an invaluable step in ensuring you make the right choice. For beginners, this task might seem daunting, but with a little guidance, it can be both manageable and insightful.


To begin with, why are customer reviews and testimonials so important? Simply put, they provide firsthand accounts of other peoples experiences with a particular plumber. These reviews can shed light on the plumbers reliability, punctuality, professionalism, and the quality of their work. In a city like Sydney, where there are numerous plumbers to choose from, these insights can help you narrow down your options and avoid potential pitfalls.


When evaluating customer reviews, its essential to consider both the quantity and quality of the reviews. A plumber with a large number of reviews generally suggests a well-established business with a significant customer base. However, its crucial to delve deeper into the content of these reviews. Look for consistent patterns in the feedback. For instance, if multiple reviews highlight a plumbers promptness or attention to detail, these traits are likely genuine strengths of the service provider.


On the flip side, if you notice recurring complaints about tardiness or poor communication, these issues may be red flags. Its also wise to pay attention to how the plumber or their business responds to negative reviews. A professional and courteous response can indicate a commitment to customer satisfaction and a willingness to address and rectify issues.


Testimonials, often found on the plumbers website, serve a slightly different purpose. These are typically curated by the business and highlight positive experiences from previous customers. While they may not offer the balanced perspective you might find in more candid reviews, they can still provide valuable insights into what the business considers its strengths and the aspects of their service they prioritize.


For beginners, its also helpful to compare reviews across different platforms. Websites like Google, Yelp, and specialized trade directories often have diverse user bases, which can provide a more rounded view of the plumbers reputation. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had direct experiences with local plumbers.


In conclusion, evaluating customer reviews and testimonials is a critical step in the process of hiring a plumber in Sydney, especially for beginners. By carefully analyzing these reviews, looking for patterns, and comparing feedback across platforms, you can make a more informed decision. This diligence can save you time, money, and the frustration of dealing with subpar services, ensuring that you choose a plumber who meets your needs and maintains high standards of work.

Preparing for the Plumber's Visit


Preparing for the Plumber's Visit: A Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney


Hiring a plumber for the first time can be a daunting task, especially in a bustling city like Sydney, where the options seem endless and the stakes of choosing the right professional are high. Plumbing issues, whether minor or major, require prompt and effective solutions to prevent further inconvenience or damage to your home. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare adequately before the plumber arrives, ensuring a smooth and successful service experience. This guide aims to help beginners navigate the process of hiring and preparing for a plumber's visit in Sydney.


The first step in preparing for a plumber's visit is to identify the problem clearly. Whether it's a leaking faucet, a clogged drain, or a malfunctioning hot water system, having a clear understanding of the issue will help you communicate the problem effectively to the plumber. Take note of any symptoms, such as unusual noises or water stains, and the duration for which they have been occurring. Documenting these details can be invaluable for the plumber, enabling them to diagnose and address the issue more efficiently.


Once you have identified the problem, the next step is to research and choose a reputable plumber in Sydney. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences with local plumbers. Additionally, online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google or Yelp can provide insights into the reliability and quality of service of various plumbing professionals. It's essential to ensure that the plumber you choose is licensed and insured, as this guarantees a certain level of competence and protects you from any liability in case of accidents or damages.


After selecting a plumber, its important to schedule a visit at a time that is convenient for both you and the professional. Keep in mind that plumbing emergencies might require immediate attention, but for non-urgent issues, try to find a time when you can be present to discuss the problem and any potential solutions.

Beginners Guide to Hiring a Plumber in Sydney - Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering

  • Sanitary sewer
  • Plumber
  • Plumbing
Once the appointment is set, take the time to clear the work area of any obstacles or personal items. This not only ensures the plumber can access the necessary areas easily but also helps protect your belongings from potential damage during the repair process.


Before the plumber arrives, prepare a list of questions or concerns you may have. This could include inquiries about the estimated time for the repair, potential costs, or preventive measures to avoid future issues. Asking questions will not only clarify any doubts but also provide you with valuable information that could help maintain your plumbing system in the long run.


Lastly, consider the payment method and any warranties or guarantees offered by the plumber. Understanding the payment terms ahead of time can prevent misunderstandings or disputes later on. Additionally, a guarantee on the work done provides peace of mind, knowing that the plumber stands by their service quality.


In conclusion, preparing for a plumber's visit involves more than just making a phone call. By identifying the problem, selecting a reputable plumber, clearing the work area, and preparing questions, you can ensure a smooth and effective service experience. With these steps, beginners in Sydney can confidently navigate the process of hiring a plumber, addressing any plumbing issues with ease and efficiency.

Plumbing Services Sydney

A plumbing fixture is an exchangeable device which can be connected to a plumbing system to deliver and drain water.

Common fixtures

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Supply

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The most common plumbing fixtures are:

Waste

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A water outlet

Each of these plumbing fixtures has one or more water outlets and a drain. In some cases, the drain has a device that can be manipulated to block the drain to fill the basin of the fixture. Each fixture also has a flood rim, or level at which water will begin to overflow. Most fixtures also have an overflow, which is a conduit for water to drain away, when the regular drain is plugged, before the water actually overflows at the flood rim level. However, water closets and showers (that are not in bathtubs) usually lack this feature because their drains normally cannot be stopped.

Each fixture usually has a characteristic means of connection. Normal plumbing practice is to install a valve on each water supply line before the fixture, and this is most commonly termed a stop or "service valve". The water supply to some fixtures is cold water only (such as water closets and urinals). Most fixtures also have a hot water supply. In some occasional cases, a sink may have both a potable (drinkable) and a non-potable water supply.

Lavatories and water closets normally connect to the water supply by means of a supply, which is a tube, usually of nominal 3/8 in (United States) or 10 or 12 mm diameter (Europe and Middle East), which connects the water supply to the fixture, sometimes through a flexible (braided) hose. For water closets, this tube usually ends in a flat neoprene washer that tightens against the connection, while for lavatories, the supply usually ends in a conical neoprene washer. Kitchen sinks, tubs and showers usually have supply tubes built onto their valves which then are soldered or 'fast jointed' directly onto the water supply pipes.

Drains

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The actual initial drain part in a lavatory or sink is termed a strainer. If there is a removable strainer device that fits into the fixed strainer, it is termed a strainer basket. The initial pipe that leads from the strainer to the trap is termed the tailpiece.

Floor-mounted water closets seal to the toilet flange of the drain pipe by means of a wax ring. These are traditionally made out of beeswax. However, their proper sealing depends on proper seating of the water closet, on a firm and secure base (floor), and on proper installation of the closet bolts which secure the closet to the flange, which is in turn supposed to be securely fastened to the floor.[1]

Traps and vents

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This drain cover has a container underneath (which can be taken out for cleaning and revealing another container below) acting as a trap. Water inside the container forms a seal when the cover is in place. Positive air pressure will push the cover up, acting as an early warning device. The underside of the cover (centre image) is kept moist by condensation occurring and insects that go back up the drain pipe get stuck to the walls of the cover.

All plumbing fixtures have traps in their drains; these traps are either internal or external to the fixtures. Traps are pipes which curve down then back up; they "trap" a small amount of water to create a water seal between the ambient air space and the inside of the drain system. This prevents sewer gas from entering buildings.

Most water closets, bidets, and many urinals have the trap integral with the fixture itself. The visible water surface in a toilet is the top of the trap's water seal.

Each fixture drain, with exceptions, must be vented so that negative air pressure in the drain cannot siphon the trap dry, to prevent positive air pressure in the sewer from forcing gases past the water seal, and to prevent explosive sewer gas buildup.

Electronic plumbing

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Sensor operated plumbing fixtures have fewer moving parts, and therefore outlast traditional manual flush fixtures. Additionally, they reduce water consumption by way of intelligent flushing schedules (fuzzy logic) that determines the quantity of each flush based on how many people are standing in line to use the fixture.
A wall-mounted shower sensor

In public facilities, the trend is toward sensor-operated (automatic) fixtures that improve hygiene and save money. For example, sensor operated automatic-flush urinals have fewer moving parts, reduce wear, and tend to last longer than manual-flush valves. Also, they ensure fixtures are flushed only once per use. Some contain intelligence that flushes them at different amounts of water flow depending on traffic patterns: e.g., the fixture can detect a lineup of users and only give a full flush after the last person has used the urinal. For the same purpose, dual-flush toilets are also becoming more popular. A combination of both technologies can allow for saved power and water.

Automatic flush compensates for users who do not bother to flush. Also, since the fixtures are always flushed, there is no need for a urinal cake, or other odor reduction. Sensor-operated toilets also have automatic flush. Sensor-operated faucets and showers save water. For example, while a user is lathering up with soap, the fixture shuts off and then resumes when the user needs it to. Sensor-operated soap and shampoo dispensers reduce waste and spills that might otherwise represent a slippage hazard.

However, many people, especially children, dislike or even fear automatic flush toilets, since they have the tendency to flush without warning, even while the user is still sitting on the toilet. Some parents have started keeping track of public bathrooms that have manual flush toilets, or even carrying post-it notes or other devices with them to temporarily disable the automatic flush sensor.[2]

These fixtures typically cost more to install than conventional plumbing fixtures, because they require the services (or presence) of both a licensed plumber and a licensed electrician. Construction companies on cost-plus contracts may actually favor these fixtures for this reason, although their clients may not. The additional complexity of these fixtures also complicates repairs, particularly the diagnosis of malfunctions causing unexpected flushing. Few electricians, and fewer plumbers, understand microelectronics well enough for complex diagnosis.

Standardization

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Some widely used standards for plumbing fittings and accessories located between the supply stop and the terminal fitting area are:

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Addison, Riley. "How to Move a Toilet Drain Pipe". Plumbing Advice. Riley Addison. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
  2. ^ Kelley, Tina (Nov 12, 2007). "For Children, a Scary World Out There (in There, Too)". The New York Times. Retrieved 2018-07-25.
Pipes and cables in the Large Hadron Collider, an example of the unity between mechanical, electrical and plumbing

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) refers to the installation of services which provide a functional and comfortable space for the building occupants. In residential and commercial buildings, these elements are often designed by specialized MEP engineers. MEP's design is important for planning, decision-making, accurate documentation, performance- and cost-estimation, construction, and operating/maintaining the resulting facilities.[1]

MEP specifically encompasses the in-depth design and selection of these systems, as opposed to a tradesperson simply installing equipment. For example, a plumber may select and install a commercial hot water system based on common practice and regulatory codes. A team of MEP engineers will research the best design according to the principles of engineering, and supply installers with the specifications they develop. As a result, engineers working in the MEP field must understand a broad range of disciplines, including dynamics, mechanics, fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, chemistry, electricity, and computers.[2]

Design and documentation

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As with other aspect of buildings, MEP drafting, design and documentation were traditionally done manually. Computer-aided design has some advantages over this, and often incorporates 3D modeling which is otherwise impractical. Building information modeling provides holistic design and parametric change management of the MEP design.[3]

Maintaining documentation of MEP services may also require the use of a geographical information system or asset management system.

Components of MEP

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Mechanical

[edit]

The mechanical component of MEP is an important superset of HVAC services. Thus, it incorporates the control of environmental factors (psychrometrics), either for human comfort or for the operation of machines. Heating, cooling, ventilation and exhaustion are all key areas to consider in the mechanical planning of a building.[4] In special cases, water cooling/heating, humidity control or air filtration[5] may also be incorporated. For example, Google's data centres make extensive use of heat exchangers to cool their servers.[6] This system creates an additional overhead of 12% of initial energy consumption. This is a vast improvement from traditional active cooling units which have an overhead of 30-70%.[6] However, this novel and complicated method requires careful and expensive planning from mechanical engineers, who must work closely with the engineers designing the electrical and plumbing systems for a building.

A major concern for people designing HVAC systems is the efficiency, i.e., the consumption of electricity and water. Efficiency is optimised by changing the design of the system on both large and small scales. Heat pumps[7] and evaporative cooling[8] are efficient alternatives to traditional systems, however they may be more expensive or harder to implement. The job of an MEP engineer is to compare these requirements and choose the most suitable design for the task.

Electricians and plumbers usually have little to do with each other, other than keeping services out of each other's way. The introduction of mechanical systems requires the integration of the two so that plumbing may be controlled by electrics and electrics may be serviced by plumbing. Thus, the mechanical component of MEP unites the three fields.

Electrical

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Alternating current

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Virtually all modern buildings integrate some form of AC mains electricity for powering domestic and everyday appliances. Such systems typically run between 100 and 500 volts, however their classifications and specifications vary greatly by geographical area (see Mains electricity by country). Mains power is typically distributed through insulated copper wire concealed in the building's subfloor, wall cavities and ceiling cavity. These cables are terminated into sockets mounted to walls, floors or ceilings. Similar techniques are used for lights ("luminaires"), however the two services are usually separated into different circuits with different protection devices at the distribution board.[9] Whilst the wiring for lighting is exclusively managed by electricians, the selection of luminaires or light fittings may be left to building owners or interior designers in some cases.

Telephone wiring from the 1970s. Low voltage cables are often laid across ceiling joists and insulation in roof cavities.

Three-phase power is commonly used for industrial machines, particularly motors and high-load devices. Provision for three-phase power must be considered early in the design stage of a building because it has different regulations to domestic power supplies, and may affect aspects such as cable routes, switchboard location, large external transformers and connection from the street.[9]

Information technology

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Advances in technology and the advent of computer networking have led to the emergence of a new facet of electrical systems incorporating data and telecommunications wiring. As of 2019, several derivative acronyms have been suggested for this area, including MEPIT (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and information technology) and MEPI (an abbreviation of MEPIT).[10] Equivalent names are "low voltage", "data", and "telecommunications" or "comms". A low voltage system used for telecommunications networking is not the same as a low voltage network.

The information technology sector of electrical installations is used for computer networking, telephones, television, security systems, audio distribution, healthcare systems, robotics, and more. These services are typically installed by different tradespeople to the higher-voltage mains wiring and are often contracted out to very specific trades, e.g. security installers or audio integrators.

Regulations on low voltage wiring are often less strict or less important to human safety. As a result, it is more common for this wiring to be installed or serviced by competent amateurs, despite constant attempts from the electrical industry to discourage this.

Plumbing

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A laboratory for testing automotive engines, showing plumbing and electrical setups integrated into the building

Competent design of plumbing systems is necessary to prevent conflicts with other trades, and to avoid expensive rework or surplus supplies. The scope of standard residential plumbing usually covers mains pressure potable water, heated water (in conjunction with mechanical and/or electrical engineers), sewerage, stormwater, natural gas, and sometimes rainwater collection and storage. In commercial environments, these distribution systems expand to accommodate many more users, as well as the addition of other plumbing services such as hydroponics, irrigation, fuels, oxygen, vacuum/compressed air, solids transfer, and more.

Plumbing systems also service air distribution/control, and therefore contribute to the mechanical part of MEP. Plumbing for HVAC systems involves the transfer of coolant, pressurized air, water, and occasionally other substances. Ducting for air transfer may also be consider plumbing, but is generally installed by different tradespeople.[11]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "MEP makes engineering projects faster and reduces cost". ny-engineers.com.
  2. ^ Fundamentals of Engineering (4th ed.). National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. 2000.
  3. ^ "Revit MEP: BIM for MEP Engineering" (PDF). Setty.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 August 2014.
  4. ^ "What Is MEP Engineering?". Reference. 4 August 2015. Archived from the original on Mar 24, 2019. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  5. ^ "Guidance for filtration and air-cleaning systems to protect building environments from airborne chemical, biological, or radiological attacks" (PDF). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Department of Health and Human Services. 2003-04-01. doi:10.26616/nioshpub2003136. Archived (PDF) from the original on Jan 21, 2024.
  6. ^ a b "Efficiency: How we do it". Google Data Centers. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  7. ^ Staffell, Iain & Brett, D.J.L. & Brandon, Nigel & Hawkes, Adam. (2012). A review of domestic heat pumps. Energy Environ. Sci.. 5. 9291-9306. 10.1039/C2EE22653G.
  8. ^ Kinney, Larry. New Evaporative Cooling Systems: An Emerging Solution for Homes in Hot Dry Climates with Modest Cooling Loads. Southwest Energy Efficiency Project.
  9. ^ a b AS/NZS 3000:2018 - "Wiring Rules". SAI Global. 2018. ISBN 978-1-76035-993-5.
  10. ^ Sonenshine, Michael (Mar 20, 2019). "Migrate from MEP to MEPIT". LinkedIn. Archived from the original on May 20, 2022. Retrieved 2019-03-20.
  11. ^ תיקון ניאגרות סמויות

 

A plumber wrench
A plumber wrench, with the key ring on the thread of the left handle
Johan Petter Johansson with his wrench

A plumber wrench (or plumber's wrench, pipe wrench, Swedish wrench or Swedish pattern wrench[1]) is a form of plier described as a pipe wrench that uses compound leverage to grip and rotate plumbing pipes. Similar to the action of a Vise Grip plier, its jaw opening is adjusted to width by rotating a threaded ring. Its advantage is that it grips with significant force without needing to engage a lock nut like an adjustable tongue-and-groove plier. Like these, it can also be used on nuts, particularly hex shaped, and other flat engagement points. If used carelessly it can dent or break plumbing pipe.[2]

History

[edit]

The plumber wrench was invented in 1888 by the Swedish inventor named Johan Petter Johansson. It shares some principles with both the Stillson-pattern pipe wrench and the rigid pipe wrench, as well as various forms of adjustable pliers, such as the Vise Grip and "Channelock" tongue-and-groove plier.

Johansson's tool is used rather than a pair of tongs[clarification needed] to separate or join[clarification needed] pipes.[3] It is not widely known in North America, but is common in Europe.[1]

Johansson also improved the adjustable wrench, with a patent in 1891.[4]

See also

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References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Wrenches and accessories". Atesina S.p.A. Archived from the original on 9 Mar 2015. Retrieved 2015-03-08.
  2. ^ "Plumbing Tools List – List of tools that plumbers use". Certified Plumbing. March 28, 2020. Archived from the original on May 7, 2021. Retrieved 1 April 2020.
  3. ^ "The History Of Plumber Wrenches And Their Uses". Plumbers 911. March 21, 2015. Archived from the original on 3 October 2015. Retrieved 5 August 2015.
  4. ^ "Who is Bahco?". Bahco. Archived from the original on Nov 27, 2016. Retrieved 2016-11-11.