Three Tools You should Have on Hand

Many Albertans are pretty handy, but even if DIY isn’t up your alley, there are a few tools you should still have on hand in case you have a plumbing emergency. These are the tools that don’t require a ton of skill, but will help you to do the most basic maintenance and damage control while you wait for more experienced hands.

A Couple Plungers.

Almost everyone has experienced a clogged toilet at some point. And for the most part, this mundane problem doesn’t require professional help. You will need the right tool for the job though: a flange plunger. Flange plungers look a little different than a cup plunger. They have a little bit of extra rubber at the base which helps them to create a good seal regardless of the shape of your toilet. If a conventional plunger isn’t doing the job, a flange plunger may make all the difference. Human wastes are also water soluble to a degree, so wait a few hours and try again, if you can’t get the clog free the first time.

A cup plunger is perfect for flat surfaces, like the bottom of a kitchen sink. So you may want to keep one of those around as well.

Duct Tape.

Made to be strong, durable, and water resistant, in a pinch duct tape can help you seal a leak, patch a crack, and a lot more. Don’t get the idea that duct tape is a permanent solution — it’s not. But in an emergency, when you have to wait for an hour or five for a professional Calgary plumber, it can make the difference between a little water on the floor and standing knee deep in sewage.

Baking Soda, Vinegar, & a Kettle.

We talk a lot about how drain cleaner is an expensive way of ruining your plumbing and aging your pipes years faster. Instead, we recommend using some kitchen baking staples to deal with small sink clogs. Put some water on to boil and collect your baking soda and vinegar. Once your water is boiled, pour about half a cup of baking soda down your drain and chase it with about 2 cups (500mL) of vinegar. Follow that up with your entire kettle of very hot water. Wait 20 minutes, then do it again, starting with baking soda. If your sink still isn’t draining as fast as you’d prefer, try twice more (20 minutes apart) and call your friendly local Calgary plumber.

The Contact Information of Your Favourite Calgary Plumber.

So this isn’t technically a tool, but we can tell you from experience that during an emergency, the last thing you need is to have to still find a reputable Calgary plumber. Give future-you the gift of planning ahead and leave the Plumbing Paramedic’s number: (403) 452-2911 on your fridge — just in case you ever need it.