Disclosure: SharkBite sponsors the Tools In Action channel. Our opinions are our own.
We posted a short clip of an odd-looking pair of pliers and asked one question: what is this tool for? The comments filled up fast, and a lot of you got it right. In the follow-up video we reveal the answer and show it in action. It’s the SharkBite removal tool, which SharkBite sells as Disconnect Tongs.
What It Is
SharkBite push-to-connect fittings grip the pipe hard. That’s the whole point. But sometimes you need to take one off, whether you’re moving a valve, fixing a mistake, or reusing a fitting. The fitting has a release collar, and pushing that collar in lets the internal teeth let go of the pipe.
In a wide-open space you can do that with a simple disconnect clip. In a tight spot it’s a lot harder to get leverage on the collar. That’s what the tongs are for.
On sharkbite.com, SharkBite describes its Disconnect Tongs like this:
- Releases the brass push connection from the pipe quickly and easily.
- One-handed operation in tight spaces.
- Compact design with wide grip handles.
- Color coordinated by size.
- Made of stainless steel.
SharkBite lists three sizes: U711A (1/2 in.), U713A (3/4 in.) and U715A (1 in.). Pick the size that matches the fitting you’re working on.
What the Video Shows
The tool itself tells you how to use it. One side of the jaws is marked “PIPE,” the other is marked “FITTING,” and the handle says “SharkBite.” The fitting side goes around the fitting, the pipe side goes around the pipe, and then you just squeeze and pull. The fitting comes right off.
In the Instagram version we demo it on a copper pipe with a brass SharkBite fitting and valve. One squeeze, and the fitting slides off the pipe like it was never locked on.
Takeaways From the Video
What we liked:
- It’s simple. The jaws are labeled, so you won’t put it on backward.
- It works one-handed. That’s a big deal under a sink, behind a water heater, or between joists.
- It doesn’t wreck the fitting. You’re releasing the collar, not cutting or prying, and in our tools video we note the fitting can be reused.
- It’s cheap insurance. If you install SharkBite fittings, having the right removal tool in the bag saves a lot of frustration.
Things to keep in mind:
- Tongs are sized. Match the tong to the fitting size you’re working with. SharkBite color-codes them by size to help.
- Before you remove anything, shut off the water and relieve the pressure.
- Before you reuse a fitting, inspect it and the pipe end, and check SharkBite’s guidance for your specific fitting.
Disconnect Tongs vs. Disconnect Clip
SharkBite sells both a Disconnect Clip and Disconnect Tongs, along with a Pro Disconnect Tool. A clip is the basic option, and it’s fine when you have room to work. SharkBite says the tongs are easier to use in tight situations, and they’re made of stainless steel for durability. If you only do the occasional repair, a clip may be all you need. If you work with SharkBite fittings often, the tongs are worth having.
Who It’s For
Disconnect Tongs are for anybody who installs SharkBite push-to-connect fittings, homeowners and pros alike. They’re especially handy for remodelers and service plumbers who keep running into SharkBites in cramped spots, and for DIYers who want to fix a fitting that went on in the wrong place without cutting it out.
If you guessed the tool right in the comments, nice work. Watch the video above to see it in action, and check out our SharkBite plumbing tools video for the other two tools we keep with our SharkBite fittings.
Where to buy: SharkBite Disconnect Tongs
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