Emergency Plumbing Services in Sydney: What You Need to Know

Emergency Plumbing Services in Sydney: What You Need to Know

pipe

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plumbing Service


When faced with a plumbing emergency, the importance of selecting the right plumbing service cannot be overstated, especially in a bustling city like Sydney. 5 Plumbing Myths Busted by Sydney Experts . Drain cleaner Plumbing emergencies can range from burst pipes to overflowing toilets, each demanding swift and efficient action to prevent extensive damage. With numerous plumbing services available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Here are several factors to consider when selecting an emergency plumbing service in Sydney.


First and foremost, availability is crucial. Plumbing emergencies do not adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule and can occur at any time, day or night. Therefore, it is essential to choose a plumbing service that offers 24/7 availability. This ensures that you can receive immediate assistance when you need it most, minimizing the potential damage to your property.


Another critical factor is the services response time. In an emergency, every minute counts, so its important to select a plumbing service known for its promptness. A reputable emergency plumbing service will have a swift response time and capable technicians ready to address the issue efficiently. Reading online reviews and testimonials can provide insight into a services reliability and speed.


Experience and expertise are also vital considerations. A plumbing emergency requires skilled professionals who can quickly diagnose and resolve the problem. Opt for a service with experienced plumbers who have a proven track record of handling a variety of plumbing issues. Additionally, its beneficial if the service is familiar with Sydneys unique plumbing infrastructure and regulations, ensuring compliance and effective solutions.


Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable factors when choosing a plumbing service. Ensure that the plumbers are licensed and certified to operate in Sydney, which guarantees that they have met the necessary industry standards. Insurance is equally important, as it protects you from liability in the event of accidents or damages during the repair process.


Cost is another consideration, although it should not be the sole deciding factor. While its tempting to go with the cheapest option, remember that quality often comes at a price. Obtain detailed quotes from several services and compare them, keeping in mind the level of service and expertise offered. A transparent pricing structure with no hidden fees is a hallmark of a trustworthy plumbing service.


Finally, customer service should not be overlooked. A plumbing emergency is already stressful, and dealing with a service that is unresponsive or dismissive can exacerbate the situation. Look for a service that communicates clearly, listens to your concerns, and provides courteous and professional service throughout the process.


In conclusion, choosing the right emergency plumbing service in Sydney involves careful consideration of several factors, including availability, response time, experience, licensing, cost, and customer service. By taking the time to evaluate these aspects, you can ensure that you select a reliable and efficient plumbing service that will handle your emergency with expertise and care, providing peace of mind in a stressful situation.

Common Plumbing Emergencies and How to Respond


Plumbing emergencies are an inevitable part of homeownership, often occurring at the most inconvenient times. For residents of Sydney, understanding common plumbing emergencies and knowing how to respond can save considerable stress, time, and money. Emergency plumbing services are crucial, but a little knowledge and preparation can go a long way in mitigating potential damage before professional help arrives.


One of the most frequent plumbing emergencies is a burst pipe. This can result from freezing temperatures, aging pipes, or excessive water pressure. When a pipe bursts, it can lead to significant water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. The first response should be to locate and shut off the main water supply to prevent further flooding. While waiting for emergency plumbers, its advisable to drain the remaining water from your faucets to relieve any pressure in the pipes.


Another common issue is a clogged drain, which can quickly escalate into a more severe problem if not addressed promptly. Whether its a bathroom sink, kitchen drain, or toilet, blockages can cause water to back up and overflow. In such situations, a plunger or a drain snake might offer a temporary solution. However, persistent clogs often require the expertise of a professional plumber who can use advanced tools to clear the blockage effectively.


Water heater malfunctions also constitute a significant plumbing emergency. A faulty water heater can lead to leaks, no hot water, or, in extreme cases, an explosion. If you notice any unusual noises or leaks around your water heater, its essential to turn off the power supply and the water source to the heater. Contacting emergency plumbing services is crucial to address the issue safely and efficiently.


Gas leaks are another critical emergency that demands immediate attention.

Emergency Plumbing Services in Sydney: What You Need to Know - Drain cleaner

  1. Drain cleaner
  2. History of water supply and sanitation
  3. Piping
The smell of gas in your home is a clear indicator of a leak, and it poses a severe risk of fire or explosion. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and contact both your gas provider and emergency plumbing services. Do not attempt to locate the leak yourself, as this could be extremely hazardous.


In Sydney, where the climate can vary and older properties are common, being prepared for plumbing emergencies is particularly important. Homeowners are encouraged to have a basic toolkit, including a plunger, pipe wrench, and plumbers tape, to handle minor issues until professional help arrives. Establishing a relationship with a reliable emergency plumbing service can also provide peace of mind, knowing that expert assistance is just a phone call away.


Ultimately, while plumbing emergencies can be distressing, understanding how to respond effectively can minimize damage and ensure the safety of your home and family. By acting swiftly and knowing when to call in the professionals, Sydney residents can maintain their homes plumbing systems in good working order, no matter what emergencies arise.

Tips for Preventing Plumbing Emergencies in Your Home


Plumbing emergencies can strike without warning, often causing significant disruption and stress in the home. While it is crucial to have a reliable emergency plumbing service on speed dial, like those available in Sydney, it is equally important to take proactive measures to prevent these emergencies from occurring in the first place. This essay explores some practical tips for preventing plumbing emergencies, helping homeowners maintain a safe and functional plumbing system.


One of the most effective ways to prevent plumbing issues is by conducting regular maintenance checks. Homeowners should routinely inspect visible pipes for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. This includes checking under sinks and around toilets, as well as examining outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Early detection of potential issues can prevent small problems from escalating into costly emergencies. In Sydney, where water conservation is a priority, fixing leaks promptly also contributes to environmental sustainability.


Another critical aspect of preventing plumbing emergencies is the proper care and use of drains. Drains are often the site of blockages that can lead to significant issues if not addressed. To prevent blockages, avoid disposing of grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the kitchen sink. Instead, use a strainer to catch debris and dispose of it in the trash. In bathrooms, use drain covers to catch hair and soap residue, which are common culprits of slow-draining or clogged pipes. Regularly cleaning drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also help maintain clear pipes.


Moreover, homeowners should be mindful of the potential for frozen pipes, especially in areas that experience colder temperatures. Although Sydney generally enjoys a mild climate, unexpected cold snaps can occur. Insulating pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics can prevent them from freezing and bursting. Additionally, during particularly cold weather, it is advisable to let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the pipes.


Water pressure is another factor that can contribute to plumbing emergencies if not properly managed. High water pressure can strain pipes and lead to leaks or bursts. Homeowners should monitor their water pressure and ensure it remains within a safe range, typically between 40 and 60 psi. If the water pressure is too high, installing a pressure-reducing valve can help maintain safe levels and extend the lifespan of the plumbing system.


Finally, being informed and prepared for potential plumbing emergencies can significantly reduce their impact. Homeowners should know the location of their main water shutoff valve and how to use it. In the event of a major leak, quickly shutting off the water supply can prevent extensive water damage.

Emergency Plumbing Services in Sydney: What You Need to Know - History of water supply and sanitation

  1. Drain (plumbing)
  2. Trap (plumbing)
  3. Flushing trough
  4. piping
  5. Pipe wrench
  6. Tubing
  7. Sewer gas
Additionally, having a list of reputable emergency plumbing services in Sydney, including their contact information, ensures that professional help is readily available when needed.


In conclusion, while plumbing emergencies can be unpredictable, taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of their occurrence. Regular maintenance, proper drain care, managing water pressure, and being prepared for emergencies are all essential steps in maintaining a healthy plumbing system. By implementing these strategies, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind and ensure their plumbing remains reliable and efficient, minimizing the need for urgent interventions.

Understanding the Costs of Emergency Plumbing Services


When faced with a plumbing emergency in Sydney, the last thing you want to worry about is the cost of the services you require. Understanding the costs associated with emergency plumbing services can help alleviate some of the stress and allow you to focus on resolving the issue at hand. Emergency plumbing services are often more expensive than regular services due to the urgency and time-sensitive nature of the problems they address. However, being informed about these costs can help you make better decisions when such situations arise.


Emergency plumbing services in Sydney typically include a higher call-out fee compared to standard plumbing services. This fee is often charged due to the need for plumbers to drop their current tasks and respond immediately to your emergency. The urgency, time of day, and complexity of the plumbing issue are factors that influence the call-out fee. For instance, services rendered during the night, weekends, or public holidays may incur additional charges due to the inconvenience and disruption to the plumber's schedule.


pipe

The complexity and severity of the plumbing issue also play a significant role in determining the overall cost. Simple fixes, such as unclogging a drain, might be relatively inexpensive, while more complicated issues, like burst pipes or major leaks, require more time, effort, and resources, which can significantly increase the price. Additionally, the need for specialized equipment or materials can further contribute to the cost. It is essential to communicate the specifics of your plumbing emergency to the service provider to obtain an accurate estimate.


To manage the costs of emergency plumbing services in Sydney, it is advisable to conduct research and identify reputable plumbing companies that offer transparent pricing. Some companies provide upfront quotes or estimates, which can help avoid unexpected expenses. Moreover, maintaining a good relationship with a reliable local plumber can prove beneficial, as they might offer loyalty discounts or prioritize your call during emergencies.


In conclusion, while the costs of emergency plumbing services in Sydney can be daunting, understanding the factors that influence these costs can help you navigate the situation more effectively. By being informed and prepared, you can ensure that you receive prompt and efficient service while managing expenses. Remember, investing in timely and quality emergency plumbing services can save you from more significant and costly damages in the future.

Plumbing Services Sydney

A plumbing fixture is an exchangeable device which can be connected to a plumbing system to deliver and drain water.

Common fixtures

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Supply

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The most common plumbing fixtures are:

Waste

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A water outlet

Each of these plumbing fixtures has one or more water outlets and a drain. In some cases, the drain has a device that can be manipulated to block the drain to fill the basin of the fixture. Each fixture also has a flood rim, or level at which water will begin to overflow. Most fixtures also have an overflow, which is a conduit for water to drain away, when the regular drain is plugged, before the water actually overflows at the flood rim level. However, water closets and showers (that are not in bathtubs) usually lack this feature because their drains normally cannot be stopped.

Each fixture usually has a characteristic means of connection. Normal plumbing practice is to install a valve on each water supply line before the fixture, and this is most commonly termed a stop or "service valve". The water supply to some fixtures is cold water only (such as water closets and urinals). Most fixtures also have a hot water supply. In some occasional cases, a sink may have both a potable (drinkable) and a non-potable water supply.

Lavatories and water closets normally connect to the water supply by means of a supply, which is a tube, usually of nominal 3/8 in (United States) or 10 or 12 mm diameter (Europe and Middle East), which connects the water supply to the fixture, sometimes through a flexible (braided) hose. For water closets, this tube usually ends in a flat neoprene washer that tightens against the connection, while for lavatories, the supply usually ends in a conical neoprene washer. Kitchen sinks, tubs and showers usually have supply tubes built onto their valves which then are soldered or 'fast jointed' directly onto the water supply pipes.

Drains

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The actual initial drain part in a lavatory or sink is termed a strainer. If there is a removable strainer device that fits into the fixed strainer, it is termed a strainer basket. The initial pipe that leads from the strainer to the trap is termed the tailpiece.

Floor-mounted water closets seal to the toilet flange of the drain pipe by means of a wax ring. These are traditionally made out of beeswax. However, their proper sealing depends on proper seating of the water closet, on a firm and secure base (floor), and on proper installation of the closet bolts which secure the closet to the flange, which is in turn supposed to be securely fastened to the floor.[1]

Traps and vents

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This drain cover has a container underneath (which can be taken out for cleaning and revealing another container below) acting as a trap. Water inside the container forms a seal when the cover is in place. Positive air pressure will push the cover up, acting as an early warning device. The underside of the cover (centre image) is kept moist by condensation occurring and insects that go back up the drain pipe get stuck to the walls of the cover.

All plumbing fixtures have traps in their drains; these traps are either internal or external to the fixtures. Traps are pipes which curve down then back up; they "trap" a small amount of water to create a water seal between the ambient air space and the inside of the drain system. This prevents sewer gas from entering buildings.

Most water closets, bidets, and many urinals have the trap integral with the fixture itself. The visible water surface in a toilet is the top of the trap's water seal.

Each fixture drain, with exceptions, must be vented so that negative air pressure in the drain cannot siphon the trap dry, to prevent positive air pressure in the sewer from forcing gases past the water seal, and to prevent explosive sewer gas buildup.

Electronic plumbing

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Sensor operated plumbing fixtures have fewer moving parts, and therefore outlast traditional manual flush fixtures. Additionally, they reduce water consumption by way of intelligent flushing schedules (fuzzy logic) that determines the quantity of each flush based on how many people are standing in line to use the fixture.
A wall-mounted shower sensor

In public facilities, the trend is toward sensor-operated (automatic) fixtures that improve hygiene and save money. For example, sensor operated automatic-flush urinals have fewer moving parts, reduce wear, and tend to last longer than manual-flush valves. Also, they ensure fixtures are flushed only once per use. Some contain intelligence that flushes them at different amounts of water flow depending on traffic patterns: e.g., the fixture can detect a lineup of users and only give a full flush after the last person has used the urinal. For the same purpose, dual-flush toilets are also becoming more popular. A combination of both technologies can allow for saved power and water.

Automatic flush compensates for users who do not bother to flush. Also, since the fixtures are always flushed, there is no need for a urinal cake, or other odor reduction. Sensor-operated toilets also have automatic flush. Sensor-operated faucets and showers save water. For example, while a user is lathering up with soap, the fixture shuts off and then resumes when the user needs it to. Sensor-operated soap and shampoo dispensers reduce waste and spills that might otherwise represent a slippage hazard.

However, many people, especially children, dislike or even fear automatic flush toilets, since they have the tendency to flush without warning, even while the user is still sitting on the toilet. Some parents have started keeping track of public bathrooms that have manual flush toilets, or even carrying post-it notes or other devices with them to temporarily disable the automatic flush sensor.[2]

These fixtures typically cost more to install than conventional plumbing fixtures, because they require the services (or presence) of both a licensed plumber and a licensed electrician. Construction companies on cost-plus contracts may actually favor these fixtures for this reason, although their clients may not. The additional complexity of these fixtures also complicates repairs, particularly the diagnosis of malfunctions causing unexpected flushing. Few electricians, and fewer plumbers, understand microelectronics well enough for complex diagnosis.

Standardization

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Some widely used standards for plumbing fittings and accessories located between the supply stop and the terminal fitting area are:

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Addison, Riley. "How to Move a Toilet Drain Pipe". Plumbing Advice. Riley Addison. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
  2. ^ Kelley, Tina (Nov 12, 2007). "For Children, a Scary World Out There (in There, Too)". The New York Times. Retrieved 2018-07-25.
Pipes and cables in the Large Hadron Collider, an example of the unity between mechanical, electrical and plumbing

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) refers to the installation of services which provide a functional and comfortable space for the building occupants. In residential and commercial buildings, these elements are often designed by specialized MEP engineers. MEP's design is important for planning, decision-making, accurate documentation, performance- and cost-estimation, construction, and operating/maintaining the resulting facilities.[1]

MEP specifically encompasses the in-depth design and selection of these systems, as opposed to a tradesperson simply installing equipment. For example, a plumber may select and install a commercial hot water system based on common practice and regulatory codes. A team of MEP engineers will research the best design according to the principles of engineering, and supply installers with the specifications they develop. As a result, engineers working in the MEP field must understand a broad range of disciplines, including dynamics, mechanics, fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, chemistry, electricity, and computers.[2]

Design and documentation

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As with other aspect of buildings, MEP drafting, design and documentation were traditionally done manually. Computer-aided design has some advantages over this, and often incorporates 3D modeling which is otherwise impractical. Building information modeling provides holistic design and parametric change management of the MEP design.[3]

Maintaining documentation of MEP services may also require the use of a geographical information system or asset management system.

Components of MEP

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Mechanical

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The mechanical component of MEP is an important superset of HVAC services. Thus, it incorporates the control of environmental factors (psychrometrics), either for human comfort or for the operation of machines. Heating, cooling, ventilation and exhaustion are all key areas to consider in the mechanical planning of a building.[4] In special cases, water cooling/heating, humidity control or air filtration[5] may also be incorporated. For example, Google's data centres make extensive use of heat exchangers to cool their servers.[6] This system creates an additional overhead of 12% of initial energy consumption. This is a vast improvement from traditional active cooling units which have an overhead of 30-70%.[6] However, this novel and complicated method requires careful and expensive planning from mechanical engineers, who must work closely with the engineers designing the electrical and plumbing systems for a building.

A major concern for people designing HVAC systems is the efficiency, i.e., the consumption of electricity and water. Efficiency is optimised by changing the design of the system on both large and small scales. Heat pumps[7] and evaporative cooling[8] are efficient alternatives to traditional systems, however they may be more expensive or harder to implement. The job of an MEP engineer is to compare these requirements and choose the most suitable design for the task.

Electricians and plumbers usually have little to do with each other, other than keeping services out of each other's way. The introduction of mechanical systems requires the integration of the two so that plumbing may be controlled by electrics and electrics may be serviced by plumbing. Thus, the mechanical component of MEP unites the three fields.

Electrical

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Alternating current

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Virtually all modern buildings integrate some form of AC mains electricity for powering domestic and everyday appliances. Such systems typically run between 100 and 500 volts, however their classifications and specifications vary greatly by geographical area (see Mains electricity by country). Mains power is typically distributed through insulated copper wire concealed in the building's subfloor, wall cavities and ceiling cavity. These cables are terminated into sockets mounted to walls, floors or ceilings. Similar techniques are used for lights ("luminaires"), however the two services are usually separated into different circuits with different protection devices at the distribution board.[9] Whilst the wiring for lighting is exclusively managed by electricians, the selection of luminaires or light fittings may be left to building owners or interior designers in some cases.

Telephone wiring from the 1970s. Low voltage cables are often laid across ceiling joists and insulation in roof cavities.

Three-phase power is commonly used for industrial machines, particularly motors and high-load devices. Provision for three-phase power must be considered early in the design stage of a building because it has different regulations to domestic power supplies, and may affect aspects such as cable routes, switchboard location, large external transformers and connection from the street.[9]

Information technology

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Advances in technology and the advent of computer networking have led to the emergence of a new facet of electrical systems incorporating data and telecommunications wiring. As of 2019, several derivative acronyms have been suggested for this area, including MEPIT (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and information technology) and MEPI (an abbreviation of MEPIT).[10] Equivalent names are "low voltage", "data", and "telecommunications" or "comms". A low voltage system used for telecommunications networking is not the same as a low voltage network.

The information technology sector of electrical installations is used for computer networking, telephones, television, security systems, audio distribution, healthcare systems, robotics, and more. These services are typically installed by different tradespeople to the higher-voltage mains wiring and are often contracted out to very specific trades, e.g. security installers or audio integrators.

Regulations on low voltage wiring are often less strict or less important to human safety. As a result, it is more common for this wiring to be installed or serviced by competent amateurs, despite constant attempts from the electrical industry to discourage this.

Plumbing

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A laboratory for testing automotive engines, showing plumbing and electrical setups integrated into the building

Competent design of plumbing systems is necessary to prevent conflicts with other trades, and to avoid expensive rework or surplus supplies. The scope of standard residential plumbing usually covers mains pressure potable water, heated water (in conjunction with mechanical and/or electrical engineers), sewerage, stormwater, natural gas, and sometimes rainwater collection and storage. In commercial environments, these distribution systems expand to accommodate many more users, as well as the addition of other plumbing services such as hydroponics, irrigation, fuels, oxygen, vacuum/compressed air, solids transfer, and more.

Plumbing systems also service air distribution/control, and therefore contribute to the mechanical part of MEP. Plumbing for HVAC systems involves the transfer of coolant, pressurized air, water, and occasionally other substances. Ducting for air transfer may also be consider plumbing, but is generally installed by different tradespeople.[11]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "MEP makes engineering projects faster and reduces cost". ny-engineers.com.
  2. ^ Fundamentals of Engineering (4th ed.). National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. 2000.
  3. ^ "Revit MEP: BIM for MEP Engineering" (PDF). Setty.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 August 2014.
  4. ^ "What Is MEP Engineering?". Reference. 4 August 2015. Archived from the original on Mar 24, 2019. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  5. ^ "Guidance for filtration and air-cleaning systems to protect building environments from airborne chemical, biological, or radiological attacks" (PDF). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Department of Health and Human Services. 2003-04-01. doi:10.26616/nioshpub2003136. Archived (PDF) from the original on Jan 21, 2024.
  6. ^ a b "Efficiency: How we do it". Google Data Centers. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  7. ^ Staffell, Iain & Brett, D.J.L. & Brandon, Nigel & Hawkes, Adam. (2012). A review of domestic heat pumps. Energy Environ. Sci.. 5. 9291-9306. 10.1039/C2EE22653G.
  8. ^ Kinney, Larry. New Evaporative Cooling Systems: An Emerging Solution for Homes in Hot Dry Climates with Modest Cooling Loads. Southwest Energy Efficiency Project.
  9. ^ a b AS/NZS 3000:2018 - "Wiring Rules". SAI Global. 2018. ISBN 978-1-76035-993-5.
  10. ^ Sonenshine, Michael (Mar 20, 2019). "Migrate from MEP to MEPIT". LinkedIn. Archived from the original on May 20, 2022. Retrieved 2019-03-20.
  11. ^ תיקון ניאגרות סמויות

 

A plumber wrench
A plumber wrench, with the key ring on the thread of the left handle
Johan Petter Johansson with his wrench

A plumber wrench (or plumber's wrench, pipe wrench, Swedish wrench or Swedish pattern wrench[1]) is a form of plier described as a pipe wrench that uses compound leverage to grip and rotate plumbing pipes. Similar to the action of a Vise Grip plier, its jaw opening is adjusted to width by rotating a threaded ring. Its advantage is that it grips with significant force without needing to engage a lock nut like an adjustable tongue-and-groove plier. Like these, it can also be used on nuts, particularly hex shaped, and other flat engagement points. If used carelessly it can dent or break plumbing pipe.[2]

History

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The plumber wrench was invented in 1888 by the Swedish inventor named Johan Petter Johansson. It shares some principles with both the Stillson-pattern pipe wrench and the rigid pipe wrench, as well as various forms of adjustable pliers, such as the Vise Grip and "Channelock" tongue-and-groove plier.

Johansson's tool is used rather than a pair of tongs[clarification needed] to separate or join[clarification needed] pipes.[3] It is not widely known in North America, but is common in Europe.[1]

Johansson also improved the adjustable wrench, with a patent in 1891.[4]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "Wrenches and accessories". Atesina S.p.A. Archived from the original on 9 Mar 2015. Retrieved 2015-03-08.
  2. ^ "Plumbing Tools List – List of tools that plumbers use". Certified Plumbing. March 28, 2020. Archived from the original on May 7, 2021. Retrieved 1 April 2020.
  3. ^ "The History Of Plumber Wrenches And Their Uses". Plumbers 911. March 21, 2015. Archived from the original on 3 October 2015. Retrieved 5 August 2015.
  4. ^ "Who is Bahco?". Bahco. Archived from the original on Nov 27, 2016. Retrieved 2016-11-11.