What Plumbing Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
Starting a plumbing business is exciting—but figuring out what equipment to buy first can be overwhelming. With so many tools available, how do you know which ones are essential and which can wait?
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping plumbing contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. But before you think about coverage, let’s make sure your toolbox is ready for action.
Why Choosing the Right Plumbing Equipment Matters
The right tools help you work faster, safer, and more professionally. Investing in quality equipment from the start sets the tone for your business and helps you avoid costly mistakes or delays.
Whether you're launching a residential plumbing service or planning to expand into commercial plumbing, here’s a breakdown of the essential plumbing tools you should buy first.
🧰 Basic Hand Tools (Must-Haves for Every Job)
These tools form the foundation of your plumbing business:
Pipe Wrenches (various sizes): For gripping and turning pipes
Adjustable Wrenches: Versatile for nuts and fittings
Channel Lock Pliers: Strong grip for fittings and pipes
Screwdrivers (Flathead & Phillips): For fixtures and fasteners
Hacksaw: Cuts through metal pipes and fittings
Pipe Cutters: Clean cuts on copper, PVC, and PEX
Basin Wrench: Reaches tight spots behind sinks
Plumber’s Snake/Auger: Clears drain blockages
Plunger: First line of defense against clogs
Teflon Tape & Pipe Compound: Seals threaded connections
Level: Ensures proper slope and alignment
🔧 Power Tools (Boost Efficiency)
These tools help you tackle tougher jobs and save time:
Cordless Drill: For drilling and driving screws
Reciprocating Saw: Cuts through pipes and tight spaces
Drain Machine (Power Snake): Clears tough clogs
Wet/Dry Vacuum: Cleans up water and debris
Angle Grinder: Cuts and smooths metal pipes
Rotary Hammer: Drills through concrete and masonry
🛠️ Pipe Installation Tools
These tools are essential for installing and repairing plumbing systems:
Pipe Bender: Shapes copper and metal pipes
Soldering Torch: Joins copper pipes
Pipe Reamer: Smooths pipe ends
PEX Crimping Tool: Connects PEX systems
Pipe Locator: Finds underground pipes
Compression Sleeve Puller: Removes damaged fittings
🧪 Testing & Inspection Equipment
Before completing a job, you’ll need to verify system integrity:
Pressure Testing Equipment
Gas Leak Detector
Water Meter Key
Manometer
Thermometer
Flashlight or Headlamp
🔗 Learn more about inspection tools at Ferguson.
🦺 Safety Equipment
Protect yourself and your team with:
Safety Glasses
Work Gloves
Knee Pads
Hard Hat
Steel-Toed Boots
First Aid Kit
Respirator Masks
🚚 Vehicle & Organization Essentials
Your service vehicle is your mobile workshop:
Service Van or Truck
Ladder Rack
Tool Organizers & Parts Bins
Pipe Rack
📋 Office & Admin Tools
Even fieldwork needs back-office support:
Invoicing Software
Scheduling App
Estimate Forms
Business Cards
Tablet or Smartphone
Credit Card Reader
🔗 Consider Jobber for plumbing business management software.
Why You Still Need Insurance
Even with the best tools, accidents can happen. Protect your plumbing business with:
At Wexford Insurance, we help plumbing contractors find affordable, specialized coverage that fits their business model.
Final Thoughts
Starting a plumbing business requires more than just skill—it requires the right equipment. By investing in essential tools and safety gear, you’ll be ready to deliver professional service from day one.
Need help protecting your plumbing business?
Contact Wexford Insurance today to get the coverage you need to operate with confidence.
