The plumbing industry keeps civilization functioning with water for drinking and washing, waste elimination and heating. Plumbers are responsible for installing and repairing these crucial systems.
They use their skills in mathematics, physics and geometry to solve problems and make accurate measurements. They also work with customers to understand their needs and provide estimates.
Installation
Plumbers install plumbing systems in homes, businesses and industrial buildings. These systems provide freshwater for drinking, waste water removal and heating and cooling. Plumbers often use saws to cut through walls and floors to access pipes and fixtures, and they may need to weld or solder them together. They also must know how to read blueprints and understand building codes.
Plumbers work on a wide range of pipe sizes and types, including metal, plastic and rubber. They also install and repair appliances such as toilets, faucets, showers and bathtubs. Plumbers must have good physical strength to lift heavy equipment and tools.
Most states require plumbers to be licensed. They typically must have a high school diploma or equivalent and undergo an apprenticeship, which combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Some vocational schools and community colleges offer courses in plumbing. Plumbers must pass an exam to prove their knowledge of piping systems, local codes and regulations and safety procedures.
Repair
In the repair part of their job, plumbers troubleshoot plumbing systems to find out what is wrong with them. This includes reading and interpreting blueprints to locate drainage systems, dismantling sinks, bathtubs, and toilets to examine the pipes, and repairing valves.
Plumbers also use specialized tools to open clogged drains and fix broken or damaged parts. They may inspect sewer lines and water heaters to ensure that they are working correctly.
Plumbers work in a variety of settings, including homes, offices, and factories. They often lift heavy materials and work in tight spaces, and they must be able to climb ladders and walk on scaffolding. They may also be exposed to hazardous substances, such as chemicals and sewage. These factors make the profession physically demanding and dangerous, and plumbers need to take precautions to avoid injuries. Many plumbers are self-employed and set their own hours. Others work for large companies or organizations and have regular schedules.
Maintenance
The maintenance part of a plumber’s job involves inspecting, testing, and repairing
existing plumbing systems. This includes identifying and locating leaks, testing pressure levels, opening clogged drains and pipes using augers or snakes, replacing washers, fittings, and valves, and connecting appliances to water, gas, and waste lines. For help with blocked drain(s) in Melbourne, a plumber can quickly be present to help with plumbing needs.
Plumbers must be able to read blueprints and have the physical strength to lift heavy objects. They must also have excellent problem-solving skills to diagnose and repair plumbing problems. Plumbers may work as independent contractors or for companies that employ them.
Many vocational schools and community colleges offer certificate programs and apprenticeships for those interested in becoming plumbers. After completing an apprenticeship, most states require plumbers to pass a test to become licensed. Plumbers can then find employment with construction companies, manufacturers, or
work as independent contractors. Some may even start their own businesses after gaining experience and acquiring a license. Some plumbers are members of unions that negotiate wages on their behalf.
Customer Service
Plumbers interact with customers to understand their plumbing needs and provide advice on products and services. They also prepare work estimates and negotiate plumbing contracts. Other job responsibilities include inspecting pipes, interpreting blueprints, and ensuring that plumbing systems meet building codes and regulations.
Plumbers who specialize in sewage systems must deal with potentially infectious waste, such as vomit. This can lead to infections like cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Plumbers also risk exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as solvents used in drain cleaners and acids found in cleaning solutions.
To become a plumber, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and undergo extensive on-the-job training. You can attend a vocational school or community college that offers certificate programs in plumbing, or participate in an apprenticeship program to learn the trade. A master plumber is required to have a certain number of years of experience and pass an exam. Some states also require a license to practice plumbing.
