How to Use Plumbing Tools Safely

easyHome Repair15 minutes10 steps

Safety Warnings

Cut off burners immediately if hot water tanks make rumbling noises to prevent explosive pressure
Ensure pressure-relief valves are operative when dealing with water heaters
Open both ends of pipes when using electric current to thaw underground metal pipes to prevent steam pressure buildup
Avoid over-tightening bolts on ceramic fixtures to prevent the bowl from breaking

Tools Needed

Ball peen hammer — check locally

Clawhammer — 12- or 16-ounce

Hacksaw — blades with 32 teeth per inch

Rubber force cup (plunger) — check locally

Carpenter's level — check locally

Thermometer — check locally

Materials

Wax seal/gasket — check locally(1)

Shims — check locally(as needed)

Steps

1

Verify safety of the system; if a hot water tank is rumbling, cut off the burner immediately.

Tip: Check the temperature at the nearest outlet with a thermometer.

2

Isolate the water supply using the cutoff valve in the supply line.

Tip: If no valve exists, prop the float with wood, being careful not to bend the float rod.

3

Use a rubber force cup (plunger) to force small obstructions down or draw them up.

Tip: If the obstruction is in a fixture trap, remove the trap to clear it.

4

When cutting pipe, use a hacksaw with blades containing 32 teeth per inch.

5

Carefully pry loose bolt covers and remove bolts holding fixtures to the floor flange.

Tip: Jar the bowl enough to break the seal without chipping it.

6

Apply a new wax seal around the bowl horn and press into place.

7

Set the bowl in place and install bolts to the floor flange.

Tip: Keep a carpenter's level on the bowl during installation.

8

Tighten bolts snugly but not too tight.

Tip: Over-tightening may break the bowl.

9

Use shims if the floor is sloping to ensure the bowl is level.

10

Replace bolt covers and install the seat and cover.

Pro Tips

Maintain a list of a 24-hour plumber's contact information in a conspicuous place for emergencies.

Was this guide helpful?

Share this guide

Sources

Synthesized from 3 verified sources:

USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →

Gutenberg: Simple Plumbing Repairs (FB 1460)View →

Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →