From an HVAC contractor and carpenter to electrician or painter, the different trades you can train in can be overwhelming. While learning each profession offers its own benefits, it is important to choose a field that you will enjoy. Considering that the average annual salary of a plumber is around $50,000, taking classes, completing a plumbing apprenticeship program, and becoming a licensed plumber is a worthwhile decision. Before you begin your new career, you should invest in a few important items. If you are considering or are about to start a new career as a plumber, make sure to have these must-have tools on hand.

Wrenches

You may be surprised to learn that not all wrenches are created equal. You may have a toolbox, garage, or shed full of wrenches, but your new profession will require wrenches specifically designed for plumbing.

Of course, having a few pipe wrenches on hand is helpful, but you will need to have a wide selection of adjustable pipe wrenches. This will ensure you have the right size wrench to fit the different size pipes you will come across.

Pipe wrenches that are capable of securing pipe fittings are also necessary. These wrenches have strong jaws that lock onto copper and galvanized pipes. Since they are so strong, they are not recommended for use on PVC pipes. Because of this, make sure to invest in a pipe wrench that can be used on PVC materials.

Locking pliers are also helpful for holding fittings securely while undoing pipes and other components with your pipe wrench.

Lastly, a basin wrench is also a must-have tool for plumbers. This wrench has a long shaft that allows you to undo fittings inside sink basins.

Pipe Cutters/Accessories

Corrosion is a common problem for home and business owners who have galvanized metal pipes. Because it is such a common problem, you must be prepared to cut out rusty, corroded pipes before replacing them with new ones.

To help remove and replace pipes, invest in a good-quality hacksaw that will cut through metal and a PVC cutter, which is necessary for cutting and removing traditional PVC pipes and plumbing lines.

A pipe cleaner brush and metal file will also come in handy. These tools will allow you to remove rust and debris from the interior of the pipes and smooth out rough edges to ensure the new pipes will fit securely in place.

Cement glue and PVC primer are also important, since these act as adhesives when sealing together the plumbing lines to reduce the risk of leaks in the future.

Clog Removal Tools

Clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem in homes today. Clogs can occur for a variety of reasons, including food residue that builds up on the sink, pouring grease down into the sink, or flushing inappropriate items down the toilet drain. Although most are not dangerous, clogs can wreak havoc on a plumbing system.

While problematic for homeowners, clogged drains will be a large part of your business. Thankfully, you can be prepared by investing in a few tools and supplies that will help you effectively and efficiently remove clogs.

Multiple plungers in different sizes will be imperative for your business. Home and business owners may have these on hand already, but heavy-duty plungers will help you remove clogs quickly.

Plumbing augers are also essential, especially if you need to remove deeper clogs in a toilet or sink drain. Hand-cranking augers and power augers are recommended.

Plumbing is an excellent career path because it is a trade that will always be necessary. To prepare for your new roles as a plumbing contractor, be sure to have these 3 must-have tools on hand.