Faucet or valve handle turning tool

Abstract

A faucet or valve handle turning tool is provided and includes an elongated, cylindrical body of machinable or moldable material having a handle at one end and a cavity formed in the opposite end. The cavity is formed with inwardly extending sidewalls and has at least one portion conforming to the peripheral contour of a faucet or valve handle. In particular, the sidewalls of such cavity may have similar elliptical contours. In at least one example, the cavity may be formed by means of mechanical routing and removal of material from the tool body. In use, the tool thereby reduces the possibility of damage to a polished faucet or valve handle frequently caused by hardened conventional plumbing tools.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to a plumbing tool and, more specifically, to a versatile faucet or valve handle turning tool. When servicing or replacing plumbing fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, it is often required that the water supply to the fixture be turned off. It is typical in residential and commercial construction to place a shut off faucet or valve in close proximity to the plumbing fixture. Because a significant amount of time can elapse between actuation of the shut off faucet or valve, it is common for these valves to “stick” or become difficult to operate. In addition, the location of the shut off faucet or valve in close proximity to the plumbing fixture often makes it difficult easily access the valve and obtain the needed leverage to turn the valve handle to the off position. Furthermore, placing a common monkey wrench, pipe wrench or channel lock pliers on the faucet or valve handle can damage (and sometimes destroy)...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a tool for rotating faucet or valve handles that is easy to use, secure, and can be fitted onto the handle without causing damage. The tool has a longitudinally elongated design with a recessed opening at one end, which has an elliptical configuration to provide increased rotational strength. The tool is made of a relatively soft material when compared with the exposed surface of the handle, and can be easily gripped and leveled for rotation. The tool is designed to accommodate faucet or valve handles and can be easily installed or maintained in narrow working areas. The tool is also made of a cylindrical body with a gripping cavity of preferred ellipsoidal configuration for added leverage during rotation."

Problems solved by technology

Because a significant amount of time can elapse between actuation of the shut off faucet or valve, it is common for these valves to “stick” or become difficult to operate.

In addition, the location of the shut off faucet or valve in close proximity to the plumbing fixture often makes it difficult easily access the valve and obtain the needed leverage to turn the valve handle to the off position.

Furthermore, placing a common monkey wrench, pipe wrench or channel lock pliers on the faucet or valve handle can damage (and sometimes destroy) the handle.

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