Plumbers Spanners

About Plumbers Spanners

Plumbers spanners are specialised hand tools designed specifically for installing, tightening and removing compression fittings, tap connectors, radiator valves and other plumbing fixtures. Unlike standard spanners, these tools feature thin jaws and stepped profiles that allow access to nuts and fittings in confined spaces typically found in plumbing installations. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of plumbers spanners from trusted brands including Monument, Draper and Faithfull, covering everything from basin wrenches to compression fitting spanners.

Essential tools for any professional plumber or DIY enthusiast, these spanners are purpose-built to tackle common plumbing tasks where conventional tools simply won't fit. The collection includes double-ended compression fitting spanners for versatile sizing options, immersion heater wrenches for boiler work, radiator stepped wrenches with ratchet mechanisms, and monobloc spanners designed specifically for modern tap installations with hex fittings.

Applications

Plumbers spanners are essential for:

• Professional plumbers and heating engineers working on domestic and commercial installations
• Bathroom fitters installing basins, baths and shower fixtures
• Central heating installers fitting radiators and thermostatic valves
• Maintenance contractors servicing plumbing systems in residential and commercial properties
• DIY enthusiasts undertaking kitchen and bathroom renovations
• Property landlords carrying out routine maintenance and repairs
• Installing and removing compression fittings on copper and plastic pipework
• Tightening tap connectors in confined spaces beneath sinks
• Fitting and adjusting radiator valves and connections
• Removing and replacing immersion heaters in hot water cylinders

Choosing The Right Plumbers Spanners

When selecting plumbers spanners from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

• Jaw size and configuration: Double-ended spanners offer multiple sizing options in one tool, whilst single-size models provide dedicated sizing for specific applications. Check that the spanner covers the compression fitting sizes you regularly work with (typically 8mm to 32mm for domestic plumbing).
• Access requirements: Basin wrenches feature adjustable jaws on extended handles for reaching tap connectors in tight spaces, whilst stepped spanners are ideal for radiator valve work where conventional tools cannot fit.
• Build quality: Look for drop-forged steel construction with hardened jaws for durability under regular professional use. Chrome-plated or corrosion-resistant finishes extend tool life in damp working environments.
• Specialist requirements: Monobloc spanners with hex-fitting compatibility are essential for modern tap installations, whilst immersion heater wrenches require specific sizing for boiler cylinder elements.
• Ratchet mechanisms: Some radiator wrenches feature ratchet actions that speed up installation and removal in confined spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a compression fitting spanner and a regular spanner?

Compression fitting spanners feature thin, narrow jaws specifically designed to access the nuts on compression fittings without damaging surrounding pipework or fixtures. Standard spanners are typically too bulky to fit in the confined spaces where compression fittings are located, particularly in back-to-wall installations.

Do I need different spanners for metric and imperial fittings?

Yes, metric and imperial compression fittings require different sized spanners. Modern UK plumbing predominantly uses metric sizing (8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 22mm, 28mm), though older installations may feature imperial sizes. MyToolShed stocks both metric compression fitting spanners and imperial options for working on older systems.

Can I use an adjustable spanner instead of a dedicated plumbers spanner?

Whilst adjustable spanners work for some accessible fittings, they're typically too bulky for confined plumbing spaces and can round off compression nuts if not perfectly fitted. Purpose-built plumbers spanners provide better access, proper fit and reduced risk of damage to fittings, making them essential for professional results.