Sanitary Tools

Which size and type you need

Sanitary tools are all about the right size and profile. Trap wrenches fit nuts on mixer taps and showers. The connection size differs per brand and model. Always measure the nut before you order. Universal wrenches fit several profiles. They work on mixer taps with an irregular shape. Check if the wrench is adjustable and if it grips the tap without causing damage.

Where ordering goes wrong

A common mistake is picking a wrench by eye. The size is often printed on the tap or in the manual. Without that size, you are guessing. And a guess often means a wrench that just does not grip. Also look at the shape of the jaw. A wrench with teeth grips a worn nut better. A smooth jaw prevents scratches on chrome. Die heads cut pipe thread. Choose the head that matches the diameter of the pipe. A wrong head damages both the thread and the pipe.

Which standard matters

For die heads, the standard for pipe thread counts. That standard sets the pitch and shape of the thread. Use the wrong standard and the connection leaks. The tools are made of chrome vanadium steel. That steel is strong and lasts a long time. A handy case keeps the parts together. You always have the right wrench or head within reach.

These sanitary tools sit under hand tools, along with all the other tools you work with by hand. For loosening nuts and unions, look at spanners, and if you would rather turn without resetting, choose ratchet wrenches. Nuts with a slot or drilled holes are gripped with hooks and pin wrenches, while pliers do the work a wrench cannot reach. For cutting pipe thread itself, there is threading tools.