Sometimes you don’t have the time to call a plumber. It can be a busy week or you’re just facing a situation that’s getting messier by the minute. What do you do?
More Americans today are taking a hard right turn and going straight for the do-it-yourself plumber route. Is it any wonder why? Not only can you finally take some of the power back in your hands, you can save a little money in the process. It’s all a matter of piecing together your toolset so you can approach just about any situation with a calm head and clever hand. Not sure where to begin with all the premium hose clamps available to you?
Here’s a simple list to get you caught up on all things do-it-yourself plumbing, from hose clamp sizes to the types you’re most likely to use.
Origin Of Today’s Hose Clamps
Where did premium hose clamps come from and why are they so popular today? The hose clamp was first invented back in the 1920’s by a former Royal Navy Commander by the name of Lumley Robinson. It provided homeowners and businessowners alike a useful means of managing their plumbing without constantly asking for professional help. It doesn’t matter how much times change…convenience is everything. You’ll want to start stocking up your toolkit with premium hose clamps so you can address a wide variety of jobs.
The Basic Hose Clamp
First things first. Hose clamps are usually used to moderate pressures (think automotive and home applications). They are manufactured to provide the tightest possible seal between a hose and barb, with even pressure on all sides and no gaps. Anything less and you might want to switch brands so you don’t risk making a problem worse. You can find premium hose clamps in a wide array of sizes to meet the fastening needs of your hose.
Simple Screw Clamp Types
Premium hose clamps can’t do it all. When you need to fix damaged pipes in emergency situations it’s best you choose screw clamps for the job. These are composed of a galvanized or stainless steel band, where the screw thread pattern has been either cut or pressed. Alongside your extra large hose clamps you should have screw clamps used for hoses half an inch in diameter or up. You’ll find yourself covered for most of the basics, whether it’s a leaking pipe or a car part that needs moderating.
Useful Wire Hose Clamps
Last, but certainly not least, the hose clamp sizes you sift through should include wire hoses. Wire hose clamps are usually composed of a heavy piece of wire, bent into a signature U shape that isn’t easily confused when you’re digging through a packed box. Worm drive hose clamps are another useful tool you can select, particularly if you find yourself needing to create a daisy-chain to make a longer clamp design. It’s all about flexibility in the do-it-yourself game. With a little practice you’ll soon find yourself repairing things on the fly.
Basic Tips For Successful Repair Jobs
Safety is important. You don’t want to inadvertently make an issue worse, particularly when it comes to leaks that have potentially hazardous chemicals or bacteria. Stuck hoses should never be removed by cutting or slitting them. This can leave a damage on the barb that later causes a leak or makes it impossible for a fitting. Any serious emergencies should still have a professional on the job, too, so you don’t put your family in danger.
Ready to do things yourself? Whether it’s hose clamps for crafting or hose clamps for plumbing, you’ll never be short on tools.
