Plumbing tools are a critical part of any plumber’s job, and most professionals rely on trusted sources like supply houses or hardware stores. But what happens when you buy plumbing tools from TikTok Shop? In this blog, I’ll give you an honest review of several tools purchased from TikTok Shop, testing their effectiveness and durability to see if they’re worth the hype—or just a waste of money.
The Tools Tested
Foundry Adhesive
This adhesive is advertised as a multi-purpose solution for repairing metal pipes, PVC, and other surfaces. It’s designed for quick fixes on pinholes, cracks, and more.
How It Performed:
After mixing the adhesive in a 1:1 ratio and applying it to a small slit in a steel pipe, it was left to cure. Once set, the adhesive was pressure tested, holding up until about 2,000 PSI before failure.
Verdict: A decent temporary solution for small leaks, but not a long-term fix for major plumbing repairs.
5-in-1 Tube Expander
This tool is designed to expand copper pipes to create a makeshift fitting. The stepped design allows for different pipe sizes.
How It Performed:
The tool struggled to properly expand a standard Type L soft copper pipe. It thinned the pipe walls significantly and didn’t provide a deep enough joint for a reliable solder connection.
Verdict: Might work for refrigeration-grade copper but isn’t practical for everyday plumbing.
Water Transfer Pump
This pump attaches to a drill and uses rotational energy to transfer water between two containers.
How It Performed:
The pump was difficult to prime, and even when operational, it moved water very slowly. While the concept is interesting, the execution left much to be desired.
Verdict: A failure for most practical applications.
Retrieval Tool
This flexible claw tool is meant to retrieve items like rings or screws dropped into drains or tight spaces.
How It Performed:
While it worked well in straight sections of pipe, the claw failed to grip items once it rounded a curve, such as in a P-trap. It also risked pushing debris further into the system.
Verdict: Limited functionality and not worth the risk of creating more problems.
Mini Drain Snake
This handheld snake is perfect for clearing small clogs in bathroom sinks or bathtubs.
How It Performed:
The snake was easy to use and effectively navigated the P-trap to remove clogs. Its compact design made it perfect for DIY users or minor plumbing issues.
Verdict: A win. Practical and effective for small clogs.
Hydro Jetting Nozzle
This nozzle features one forward jet and six rear jets, designed for use with a hydro jetter to clean pipes.
How It Performed:
When connected to a hydro jetter, the nozzle performed exceptionally well. The rear jets propelled the nozzle forward, while the forward jet cleared debris. It effectively cleaned the inside of pipes, demonstrating the potential for professional-grade use.
Verdict: Highly effective and worth having for hydro jetting tasks.
What Did We Learn?
Pros and Cons of Buying Plumbing Tools from TikTok Shop
Pros
- Low Cost: Two of each tool cost only $30 total, making it an affordable way to experiment with new gadgets.
- Creative Solutions: Some tools, like the mini drain snake and hydro jetting nozzle, provided real value.
Cons
- Inconsistent Quality: Several tools either didn’t work as advertised or were impractical for professional use.
- Limited Applications: Many tools were only useful in niche situations or as temporary fixes.
Final Verdict
While TikTok Shop might not replace your go-to supply house, it can offer a few gems if you’re willing to experiment. Tools like the mini drain snake and hydro jetting nozzle proved useful, but others fell short. For professional plumbers, it’s essential to balance cost with reliability—something TikTok Shop doesn’t always deliver.
