Building a professional plumbing tool kit isn’t about stuffing a bag with every gadget you’ve seen on YouTube. It’s about curating reliable, serviceable tools that hold up under jobsite abuse, save time in the crawlspace, and meet code when it matters. I’ve been a master plumber for more than two decades, and as the Product Expert at Plumbing Supply And More (PSAM) and curator of Rick’s Picks, I’ve outfitted hundreds of contractors, serious DIYers, and facilities teams. Here’s exactly how I’d build a pro-grade kit—what to buy first, what to skip, and how to plumbing supply and more source the right gear from a true plumbing supply house.
Before we dive in, I’ll say what many are thinking: price matters, but downtime costs more. That’s why my recommendations lean toward proven brands, readily available parts, and tools that can be serviced, not tossed.
Start with the Core: Hand Tools You’ll Use Every Day
You’ll touch these tools on nearly every service call or rough-in. Invest once, maintain them, and they’ll outlast the truck they ride in.
- Wrenches: Ridgid 31095 14" Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench (lightweight for overheads), and the 31100 18" as the daily driver. Add a Ridgid 31105 24" for 2"+ fittings. Still using a bargain wrench? That rounded nut you’re fighting proves the point. Adjustable: Channellock 8WCB and 10WCB WideAzz adjustables; Milwaukee 48-22-7400 10" for a backup. Wide jaws are clutch on meter unions. Pliers: Knipex 86 03 250 Pliers Wrench and 88 02 250 Alligator. One protects finishes, the other bites like a bulldog. Tubing cutters: Ridgid 32985 for 1/8–5/8" copper; Ridgid 31642 for 1/4–1-5/8"; Lennox 12123 close-quarter cutter for tight mech rooms. T-handle and basin tools: Ridgid 31175 strap wrench for polished chrome; Superior Tool 03812 basin buddy; General Tools 140XL telescoping basin wrench for deep lavs. Hex, torx, nut drivers: Wiha or Wera sets. Cheap hex keys round out fasteners and your day. Measuring and marking: Milwaukee 48-22-6616 16’ magnetic tape, Milwaukee Inkzall, and a FatMax torpedo level with rare earth magnets. Deburring and reaming: Ridgid 34945 I.D. reamer and outside deburring tool; Nibco chamfer tool for CPVC.
Pro tip: Keep two tapes and two cutters. When a cutter kisses the concrete or a tape dives into a crawl, you’ll finish the job without a supply run. If you’re searching “plumbing supply near me,” stop by our showroom—our team will let you handle the tools and feel the difference.
Bold truth: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components built for daily use, not just weekend projects.
Pipefitting Essentials: Copper, PEX, Steel, and PVC—Set Up to Win
Different jobs demand different joining methods. Here’s my short list for clean, code-compliant work across materials.
- Copper sweat: TurboTorch STK-9 torch kit with Acetylene B tank, Worthington tip set for 1/2"–2". Harris Stay-Silv 15 for brazing ACR, and Oatey H-20 water-soluble flux with Bridgit lead-free solder for potable lines. A Milwaukee M12 soldering iron is a good emergency thawing tool for tiny sections, but your torch is the workhorse. Press systems: Milwaukee M18 Force Logic 2773-22 kit with 1/2"–2" press jaws for copper and stainless; add Viega ProPress rings; for gas, use approved fittings and jaw profiles per the listing. Keep calibration records—inspectors do ask. Time saved vs sweat? 40–60% on repipes. PEX: Milwaukee M12 ProPEX expander 2432-22 and Uponor ASTM F1960 rings. Alternatively, Viega PureFlow F1807/F2159 crimp with a Ridgid 44043 ratcheting crimper. Expansion wins in cold climates with fewer fittings; crimp is cost-effective on multifamily. Steel: Ridgid 36475 12-R manual threader with 1/2"–2" dies and Dark cutting oil; for production, Ridgid 915 roll groover for 1-1/4"+ on fire risers. Always chase threads; no one likes a leaker on 300 psi hydro tests. PVC/CPVC: Reed internal pipe cutters and a Wheeler-Rex ratcheting cutter. Primer and cements: Oatey Purple Primer 30756 (many jurisdictions require purple for inspection) and Oatey Heavy Duty Gray 31818 for schedule 80.
Pro tip: Keep a set of test plugs—Cherne Clean-Seal 273-040 pressure blocking plugs—for DWV testing up to 13 PSI per local code. In our service area, inspectors often request 10 ft head or 5 PSI for 15 minutes—check your city listing.
When you need a true plumbing supply store with press rings in stock on a Friday afternoon, contractors in our area head to PSAM. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support at the counter—bring your submittals, leave with a code-compliant solution.
Cutting, Boring, and Drilling: Speed Without Splinters or Sparks
Speed holes are sloppy, speed plus accuracy wins bids. Here’s the kit that respects framing and finishes.
- Hole saws: Milwaukee Hole Dozer bi-metal set for metal and copper penetrations; Spyder Tarantula carbide for longevity through nails and LVL. Self-feed bits: Diablo 3-5/8" and 4-5/8" for waste lines; keep a 2-9/16" for shower valves. Sharpen the lead screw; replace when it burns studs. Right-angle drilling: Milwaukee Hole Hawg M18 2807-22—torsion control saves wrists and studs. SDS-Plus rotary hammer: Bosch GBH18V-26DK25 for anchors and penetrations; keep Simpson SET-XP epoxy for seismic-rated anchors when specified. Recip blades: Diablo Demo Demon 9" 6/9 TPI for cast iron; Lenox Gold for mixed-use.
Insider secret: Boring 2x4s? Keep edge distance and spacing per IRC R502.8—don’t overcut and compromise structure. Snap chalk lines for horizontal runs before you drill; it will make your finish-sleeve layout clean.
If you’re searching a plumbing supply store near me that has Hole Hawgs and Force Logic press tools on the same shelf, you’re our kind of customer. We keep them ready with batteries charged so you can test balance and trigger feel before you buy.
Leak-Proofing and Sealants: The Small Items That Prevent Callbacks
Tiny items that save reputations. Stock these and sleep well.
- Thread sealants: RectorSeal T Plus 2 for general use, and Loctite 567 for stainless threads. For gas, RectorSeal Yellow Gas Approved Teflon Tape plus pipe dope per ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54. Gaskets and washers: Assortments for 1/2", 3/4", 1" hose; Buna-N and EPDM for different fluids. Keep Fernco 1056-22 flexible couplings for repairs. Trap primers: PPP PrimO-T™ inline or Sioux Chief 600-00213; required by many codes for floor drains—don’t miss this on TI work. Dielectric unions: Matco-Norca DU-100 series on mixed-metal water heater connections to meet UPC 604.5.
Pro tip: Keep a couple of 1/2" and 3/4" full-port ball valves (Apollo 77-100 series) and SharkBite U3088 push couplings for emergency shut-ins. They’re not a substitute for permanent fixes, but they’ll save a flooded kitchen at 9 p.m.
And when you need specialty plumbing parts or oddball gaskets, PSAM’s counter team has the bin know-how. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we’ll hand you the right washer the first time.
Diagnostic and Testing Gear: Find the Problem Before You Touch a Pipe
This is where pros separate from handymen. Diagnose right, fix once.
- Pressure: UEi PDT650 pressure gauge kit with adapters; fill, static, and working pressure matter. Code often calls for 40–80 PSI; install PRVs when you’re above spec. Gas: UEi CD100A combustible gas detector for tracing leaks. Bubble solution confirms; tracer gas for hard cases. Thermal and moisture: FLIR C5 thermal camera finds slab leaks and mixing valve failures; Tramex Moisture Encounter pinless meter for drywall and subfloor mapping. Inspection: RIDGID SeeSnake microReel APX with CSx Via monitor—records for customer approvals and insurance claims. Add a NaviTrack Scout locator for mapping. Drain testing: General Pipe Cleaners JM-1000 mini jetter for 1-1/2"–2" lines; for maintenance teams, a 4.0 GPM, 4000 PSI cart jetter pays for itself in three calls.
Insider tip: Photograph and tag static/working pressures and thermal images in your job app. On warranty calls, that baseline saves hours and arguments.
If you’re after a commercial plumbing supply partner who can calibrate detectors and guide you on camera head replacements, that’s us. When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More to get specialized test gear serviced fast.
Water Quality, Hydronics, and Specialty Tools: Be Ready for Upsells That Add Real Value
Beyond repairs, these tools help you solve system issues and build trust.
- Water quality: Hach 145300 total hardness kit; TDS meters are not hardness—don’t mix them up. Scale on tankless units? Keep a RectorSeal Calci-Free kit and Webstone 44443WPR service valves with a pump for descaling. Balancing and temps: UEi DT302 dual-input thermometer to set mixing valves and verify hydronic delta-T. Hydronics: Caleffi 553 series DirtMag for magnetite removal; a power flushing adapter saves hours on noisy loops. Expansion and relief: Watts DET-5 for domestic, check sizing per water heater and PRV settings. Verify thermal expansion at the tap with pressure readings pre- and post-fire.
Case in point: A property manager in the tri-county area had chronic pinhole leaks. Our counter team kitted a whole-house filter (Pentair 10" Big Blue with 5-micron cartridge), PRV set to 70 PSI, and expansion tank. Leaks stopped. That’s the advantage of a local plumbing supply with real knowledge.
And yes, we stock the consumables you’ll need for these upsells, whether you order from plumbing supply online or swing by the closest plumbing supply location.
Consumables, Fasteners, and Jobsite Organization: The Hidden Time Savers
Every minute spent searching the truck is profit lost. Build repeatable organization.
- Consumables: Copper/brass assortments (caps, 90s, tees), PEX elbows and tees in labeled bins, PVC schedule 40 fittings by size. Keep 10–15 feet of Type L 1/2" and 3/4" copper on the rig. Fasteners: Tapcons, Unistrut 1-5/8" strut, 3/8" rod, spring nuts, and cushion clamps. Code wants proper support: UPC Table 313.3 for spacing. Anchors and supports: Simpson ABU post bases, strut clamps for gas and hydronic lines. Tape and wrap: Rescue Tape silicone, 3M 2228 mastic for outdoor electrical terminations near condensing boilers or tankless units.
Pro tip: Use color-coded bins for material families—blue for potable, yellow for gas, purple for reclaimed. It keeps helpers from grabbing the wrong fitting and failing inspection.
Need bulk? That’s where wholesale plumbing supply matters. PSAM’s contractor accounts get job-pack pricing and restock alerts. Compared to Ferguson, City Plumbing Supply, and Grainger, Plumbing Supply And More backs bulk pricing with hands-on technical guidance at the counter.
Code, Safety, and Documentation: The Unsexy Tools That Keep You Paid
Ignoring code doesn’t save time—it creates rework. Keep these on hand.
- Reference: ICC IRC/IMC/UPC digital copy on your phone; local amendments printed in a binder. In our region, purple primer is required on PVC DWV—inspectors look for that color. Safety: Milwaukee PPE kit—cut-resistant gloves, ANSI Z87+ eye protection, and hearing protection. For sewer work, carry N95 or half-mask respirators. Lock-out kits: Especially for property management and commercial maintenance teams. Tag and verify before cutting into boiler rooms. Documentation: A job photo log app. Record hangers, firestopping (3M Fire Barrier CP25WB+), and sleeves. It’s your CYA for inspectors and owners.
Want help navigating local code for trap primers, mechanical vents, or gas CSST bonding? Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll print the exact code citations and manufacturer instructions you need for inspections.
Where to Buy: Choosing a Supply Partner That Works as Hard as You Do
You can assemble a kit piecemeal from a dozen vendors, or you can use a true plumbing supply shop that understands field work.
Here’s what sets PSAM apart:
- Largest selection on the shelf: We’re the best plumbing supply option because we actually stock pro-grade brands—Viega, Uponor, Ridgid, Milwaukee, Caleffi, Watts, Oatey, Sioux Chief, Fernco—so you can touch before you buy. Pro accounts: Bulk discounts, net terms, and job labeling for multifamily and commercial projects. Ask about same-day and emergency runs—we run a 50-mile delivery radius with hot-shot options. Technical bench: Submittals, cut sheets, and phone support from licensed pros. Bring us the spec, we’ll build the pick list.
Yes, you’ll see “SupplyHouse Plumbing” and other plumbing supply online options with flash sales. We match real value with the right materials and immediate availability. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components—the stuff that keeps callbacks off your schedule.
You’ll also hear of “economy” options like economy plumbing supply or cheap plumbing supplies outlets. There’s a time for bargain fittings, but never behind a wall. We help you draw that line.
Looking for a plumbing supply house near me that’s open early? We’ve got extended hours and a dedicated line for urgent needs—think of us as your dependable 24 hour plumbing supply solution with after-hours support for account holders.
Sample Starter Kit: Rick’s Picks for a First-Rate Service Setup
Here’s a tight, field-proven starter bundle I’ve built for new hires and one-man shops. Expect $1,800–$3,200 depending on press vs sweat.
- Two Ridgid pipe wrenches (14", 18"), two adjustables (8", 10"), Knipex 10" Alligator, 10" Pliers Wrench Ridgid copper cutters (close quarter + 1-5/8"), deburring tools TurboTorch STK-9 kit, Oatey flux and lead-free solder, heat shields PEX expander or crimp kit (Uponor M12 expander or Ridgid crimper), assortment of rings and fittings Hole Dozer set, 2-9/16", 3-5/8", 4-5/8" self-feed bits, M18 Hole Hawg Thread sealants (T Plus 2, Loctite 567), gas-approved tape Milwaukee M18 press kit if budget allows; if not, sweat copper and add press later UEi gas detector, pressure gauge kit, small thermal camera (FLIR C5) Consumable bins with copper, PEX, PVC fittings; ball valves; emergency push couplings
Installation timeframes: After a week with this kit, most techs are completing standard water heater swaps in 2.5–3.5 hours (gas or electric), toilet resets in 45–60 minutes including wax and flange fix, and lav re-pipes in 1.5–2 hours. That’s where quality tools pay dividends.
If you’re hunting the “ plumbing shop near me” with this exact kit ready, call ahead. We’ll stage it for pickup or deliver same day within our radius.
Buying Guide: Navigating the World of Plumbing Supply Houses
There’s a difference between a general plumbing supply counter and a partner who knows your projects. Here’s how to evaluate:
- Inventory depth: Do they stock the oddball 1-1/4" press tees and 2" shielded No-Hub couplings? We do. Expertise: Can they explain the difference between ASTM F1960 and F1807 on PEX? We can, and we’ll print the spec. Service: Same-day delivery, emergency fulfillment, and loaner tools when yours are down. PSAM checks all three.
We respect competitors—Ferguson, Grainger, White Cap, even niche players like Ace for small hardware. But our plumbing bench is built by plumbers, for plumbers. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—that’s why local contractors keep our number on speed dial.
If you’re comparing wholesale plumbing supply company options, ask for submittal packages, SDS sheets, and warranty support details. The answers tell you who’ll show up when there’s a problem.
Local and Online: Meet You Where You Are
Whether you’re a property manager searching “ plumbing wholesale near me” for 50 fill valves or a homeowner browsing consumer plumbing supply and internet plumbing supply options for a new bathroom, we’ve got you covered:
- Showroom: Visit to compare decorative plumbing supply pieces—Delta, Moen, Brizo, Kohler—with finish samples you can hold to tile. We’ll explain ceramic disc cartridges vs. compression stems and why it matters. Counter: The fastest “ closest plumbing supply” option for will-call orders. Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations. Online: Check our inventory and pricing under “ plumbing supplies direct” with real-time stock. Prefer phone? We’ll build the cart for you. Specialty: From plumbing and heating supply to city plumbing and electrical supply coordination on mixed-scope jobs, our team can stage multi-trade kits.
And yes, if you’ve ever driven across town to three different “ plumbing supply places” only to be told “out of stock,” you’ll appreciate our live inventory and quick-turn transfers from our warehouse network serving contractors throughout the region.
FAQ: Building Your Professional Plumbing Tool Kit
Q: What’s the first big-ticket tool I should buy—press, camera, or jetter?
A: Start with press if you do frequent repipes or copper repairs—time savings are immediate. A Milwaukee M18 press kit often pays back in 8–12 jobs. Cameras come next for drain pros; jetters if you regularly clear lines. If you’re mixed service, press first, camera second.
Q: Are push-to-connect fittings OK in concealed spaces?
A: Many jurisdictions allow them if they’re listed for concealed use, but inspectors can be picky. I use push fittings for emergencies and transitions, then come back with permanent solutions. Always follow the manufacturer’s listing and local code amendments.
Q: Do I need both expansion and crimp PEX tools?
A: Not at first. Pick a system that matches your local supply and your crew’s comfort. In colder climates, I lean Uponor F1960 expansion for freeze resilience and fewer fittings. In high-volume multifamily, F1807/F2159 crimp can be cost-effective.
Q: What thread sealant should I use on gas lines?
A: Use a gas-rated tape (yellow) plus a listed pipe dope approved for gas like RectorSeal No. 5 or T Plus 2 where allowed. Always follow NFPA 54 and local code. Stainless gas lines often do better with Loctite 567 to prevent galling.
Q: How do I build a maintenance kit for property managers?
A: Stock universal fill valves (Fluidmaster 400H), flappers (Chlorazone options for treated water), supply lines (3/8" x 7/8" in 12", 16", 20"), angle stops (1/2" sweat x 3/8" comp), wax rings with horns, caulk, and a compact auger like Ridgid K-3. Add a pressure gauge and a lockout kit. We can bundle this for your buildings and label by floor plan.
Q: Where can I get after-hours supplies in an emergency?
A: We offer after-hours support for account holders—think of it as your practical 24 hour plumbing supply option. Call ahead; we’ll stage will-call or dispatch within our delivery radius.
Bring It Home: Build the Kit, Partner with Pros, Work Faster
You came here to learn How to Build a Professional Tool Kit from a Plumbing Supply House, and now you’ve got the blueprint: core hand tools that don’t quit, joining systems that fit your workflow, diagnostic gear that prevents callbacks, and a supply partner that backs you up with stock, service, and know-how.
Here’s your next move:
- Visit our showroom to see the quality difference—handle the press jaws, compare cutters, and pick the torch that fits your hand. Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations—we’ll build your kit around your work. Ask about our contractor discount program and same-day delivery—stop burning hours in traffic. Check our current inventory online or call ahead—we’ll stage your order for quick pickup. Our experts can walk you through the installation process, code references, and submittals—bring your plans, leave with a solution.
And yes, we’ll help you say it confidently a second and third time to target your searches: If you’re serious about learning How to Build a Professional Tool Kit from a Plumbing Supply House, stop by the plumbing supply company that contractors actually use. From contractor plumbing supply to plumbing and supply for homeowners, PSAM is the plumbing supply house that makes work easier, faster, and cleaner.
Final word: When Home Depot, Lowe’s, and even SupplyHouse.com can’t match your spec or timeline, Plumbing Supply And More delivers the stock, the support, and the pricing to keep your schedule intact. If you need a partner—not just a counter—come see why pros choose PSAM, the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge.