With my recent promotion to managing editor of RJ 2.0, I have realized the importance of having the proper tools to do your job. As I was purchasing and updating my supplies, I thought about how something essential to my job may be useless to someone else’s. I don’t need a tape measure — something a plumber is never too far away from — but I bring my tablet with me everywhere I go.

With that being said, I asked a number of our readers to name a few tools that are a plumber’s best friend and should never be far from reach. Listed are a few responses: Cordless drill, cordless sawzall, level, pressure gauge, four-in-one screwdriver, tubing cutter, pipe wrench/channel wrench, tape measure, flashlight, high-volume pump and a sewer camera.

I also asked what they look for in a tool and noticed one similarity in a plumber’s list and mine. Technology. From tools to tablets, technology has made a big impact on many businesses. But how can we determine the difference between what tools we need and what would just be “nice to have?”

A need is something your business must have for survival — good tools, reliable vehicles, etc. Something such as a tablet for your techs would be nice to have, but may not be crucial.

One thing you could always use more of is advice. This eBook has plenty of that: you will find advice for picking the right drain-cleaning tool for the job, as well as learn how to build a reputation as the company that “gets it.”

The advice doesn’t stop here. Check out our RJ 2.0 June print issue, our website (www.ReevesJournal.com) and our twice-monthly Western Plumbing News eNewsletter.