Plumbers Pliers

About Plumbers Pliers

Plumbers pliers are essential hand tools specifically designed for gripping, turning, and manipulating pipes, fittings, and fixtures in plumbing applications. These robust tools feature wide, serrated jaws that provide exceptional grip on various sizes of pipework, compression fittings, and tap connectors without causing damage. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade plumbers pliers built to withstand the demanding requirements of daily plumbing work.

Unlike standard pliers, plumbers pliers are engineered with extra-wide jaw capacity to accommodate large diameter pipes and fittings commonly found in domestic and commercial plumbing systems. The adjustable jaw design allows tradespeople to work with pipes ranging from 15mm copper tube up to 40mm compression fittings, making them an indispensable tool in any plumber's toolkit.

Applications

Plumbers pliers are used across various trades and applications including:

• Professional plumbers – installing and maintaining water supply systems, central heating, and sanitary ware
• Heating engineers – working with radiator valves, compression fittings, and boiler connections
• Maintenance teams – general building maintenance and emergency repairs
• DIY enthusiasts – bathroom renovations, tap replacement, and basic plumbing repairs
• Gas engineers – handling gas pipe fittings and isolation valves
• Tightening and loosening compression nuts, tap connectors, and flexible hoses
• Gripping chrome-plated and brass fittings without scratching surfaces
• Removing and installing backnut assemblies on basins and sinks

Choosing The Right Plumbers Pliers

When selecting plumbers pliers from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these important factors:

• Jaw capacity: Ensure the maximum jaw opening suits your typical pipe sizes – most professional models accommodate 40mm to 60mm capacity
• Jaw design: Look for wide, flat jaws with fine serrations that grip securely without damaging chromed or polished surfaces
• Handle length: Longer handles (250mm-300mm) provide greater leverage for stubborn fittings in confined spaces
• Construction quality: Chrome vanadium steel offers durability and corrosion resistance for long-term professional use
• Handle grip: Comfortable, non-slip handles reduce hand fatigue during extended use
• Brand reputation: Trusted manufacturers like Monument provide reliable tools backed by warranties

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between plumbers pliers and water pump pliers?

Plumbers pliers feature wider, flatter jaws specifically designed for gripping large diameter pipes and fittings commonly found in plumbing work. Water pump pliers have narrower, angled jaws better suited for general gripping tasks. Plumbers pliers provide better surface contact on compression fittings and backnuts.

Can plumbers pliers be used on chrome-plated fittings?

Yes, quality plumbers pliers from MyToolShed feature smooth, serrated jaws that grip effectively whilst minimising the risk of scratching decorative chrome or brass finishes. However, always use appropriate force and consider protective jaw covers for highly visible fittings.

What size plumbers pliers do I need for domestic work?

For most domestic plumbing applications, plumbers pliers with a jaw capacity of 40mm to 50mm and overall length of 250mm will handle standard UK pipe fittings from 15mm to 28mm compression joints, plus most tap connectors and basin waste assemblies.