You certainly do need some fixed spanners but many plumbers rely on adjustables and bodge things.
If you have old spanners the file/grind them to fit things.
Tony
I use pump pliers for most jobs and,an adjustable bahco for rad unions etc , does that make me a bodger?????
A bit rich coming from an ex BBC employee who knows fook all about this trade and advocates crushing gas pipes behind soil stacks.
What a tool you really are Tony you certainly wouldn't be invited to carry out any plumbing/heating /gas work in my property , the diy gang might not see through you but the tradesman amongst us do.
While harsh on Tony, I've got to agree with you steelfreemason.