Whether you’re a seasoned plumber or just breaking into the industry it’s important that you have the best tools. And it’s also vital that you stay up to date on new technology that will help your business succeed in a modern world.
Read on for the must have plumbing tools that belong in your essential toolkit.
- Must Have Plumbing Tools: Inspection Cameras
Since such a vast amount of plumbers work happens in tight, cramped, dark, hard-to-reach places, and inspection camera (often called borescopes) should be at the top of your list.
These cameras have a lens attached to the end of a long, flexible tube that can go into tight spaces as well as pipes.
Using an inspection camera can save you time and money by knowing exactly what problem you need to solve or part that needs replacing.
- Portable Soldering Tools and Pad
Many plumbers face time constraints because certain parts need soldering. Some soldering tools are bulky and difficult to transport.
So another tool that belongs in every plumber’s toolkit is portable soldering equipment and pads. This will allow you to mend metal pipes on-site without having to take your job off-site or outsource the metalwork.
Soldering pads can be used to protect the wall, floor, or surrounding area where you’re using soldering tools or an open flame.
- Plumbers Putty and Duct Sealant
A strong reliable version of both of these adhesives should be in every plumber’s arsenal.
While both are water resistant, they have different applications. Learn more about the difference between plumbers putty and duct sealant.
Duct sealant is more often used for HVAC purposes. And while it can block moisture, it’s main strengths are in protecting fittings from dust, air leaks, and being non-conductive.
Plumber’s putty is more appropriate for fittings that will see water, but it shouldn’t be used with high water pressure.
- A Drain Snake
There are just some clogs that a plunger won’t fix. A drain snake is an essential part of every plumber’s collection.
For those pipes that need clearing, a drain snake can unclog or clear out almost any stoppage.
You can find lightweight (we’re talking 10 lbs.), battery-powered snakes that pack a punch and don’t take up a lot of space in your truck.
- Pipe Benders
Having a pipe bender on hand can save you time and money not having to find and purchase corner fittings that perfectly match the angles of your system and width of your pipes.
Pipe benders can quickly and easily on site with this small tool. This enables you to customize systems beyond what certain joints allow.
- Reciprocating Saw
Sometimes known as a Sawzall or hognose saw, this handheld saw is a tool with a variety of uses. With varying types of blades available, you can use this to saw through metal pipe, PVC pipe, drywall, and much more.
Since a day in the life of a plumber encounters all those materials regularly, a lightweight and powerful saw that can quickly cut is essential.
- Knee Pads
Because of the amount of time plumbers spend on their knees, it’s absolutely essential that they have a comfortable, durable set of knee pads.
There’s even a condition called plumber’s knee (Prepatellar Bursitis) that is caused by excessive amounts of pressure to the kneecap.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness.
But this is easily avoided by using the proper padding when working.
Many say that using pads can be too cumbersome and uncomfortable, but if you’d like to be able to walk when you retire, then wear your knee pads!
- A Modern Website
Let’s face it. If you don’t have clients then you don’t have a business. And in today’s day, people aren’t finding businesses by driving by brick and mortar locations.
When people need a plumber they google some variation of “plumber near me” and choose the one with the easiest website to navigate and best reviews.
There’s just one problem. You’re a plumber, not a web developer. That’s where we come in. We can help you build a website that’s easy for your clients to navigate.
With our builder, you don’t need to know how to code a website to have one that’s attractive, modern, and highly functional.
- A Strong Email Marketing Campaign
A vital part of your business plan includes creating repeat customers. And one of the best ways to maintain contact with your clients is through email marketing.
When you do a first-time job, make sure that you collect your client’s email address. After you’ve completed a job, send them an email asking to rate your service and give a review on your website.
After their review, send them a promotional code or coupon for a discount on their next service.
Another way to capture emails is to have a tool on your website that allows people to receive updates and promotions. Offer web visitors a coupon off their next service for submitting their email.
When it’s time for regular maintenance or you hit a slow season, shoot a promotional email or a reminder for maintenance to your mailing list.
This will generate future customers, and increase their loyalty to your business.
If you’re not sure how to make a marketing email, visit us here!
Let’s Get the Water Running!
These are just a few of the must have plumbing tools that you’ll find in every successful plumber’s arsenal.
And while the web and marketing aspects may seem daunting, getting a handle on your online business will make the difference between failure and success.
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