Why You Need Plumbers Sockets
I knew I was in trouble when I mentioned that I needed a set of plumbers sockets and the “Pro” at the big box store didn’t know what I wanted. Let me explain. My kitchen faucet had developed a leak every time I turned the water on. Upon inspection, I found the leak at or very near the place where the faucet went thru the countertop. I would need to remove the faucet in order to inspect it properly. Every time I need to work on the kitchen sink faucet(or any faucet or shower valve) the need for this type of socket pops up.
If you’ve never used these then your in for a treat. This tool makes the job of removing or installing the faucet super easy. They are made of narrow gauge steel so that they can fit in the tightest of places with ease. The socket is about 5 to 6 inches long with a hole at each end. Most plumber socket sets come with a short bar that will fit these holes to use for turning. If the bar is ever lost you can use a screwdriver to turn the socket.
A lack of room
These sockets are perfect for the job of tightening or removing the nut that holds the faucet to the countertop. It was the same old problem always a lack of room. The cabinet/wall is on one side and the sink is on the other. The socket is extra deep to allow the hose connectors/valve studs to remain inside the socket as you tighten or loosen the nut. Also, the length works in your favor to bring the turning end away from the nut. This makes tightening or loosening the nut easier.
The search for the tool
A quick lookup for the local big box store online showed that they carried the plumber’s socket toolset and at a price that my wallet felt it could allow. Minutes later I am being told by the “Pro” that they don’t have the toolset that is online. That I need to buy their very high priced set. Oh no, I should have bought a set of these sockets years ago. So I check out the rental situation and it turns out that my local hardware store has just the set that I need to rent.
A quick trip home and within minutes that almost impossible feat of removing the faucet is done. The right tool for the job makes the job so much easier is an understatement. I don’t advocate owning every tool but this tool is priceless when the job comes up. It is the kind of tool that you need for a basic plumbers toolkit. If you can have it on hand when needed it will definitely make your job easy.
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