What Does a Plumber Do?



Plumbers repair pipes and fixtures, and sometimes install new water, gas,and wastewater pipes. They work in homes, factories, and office buildings. Some
plumbers are self-employed. Most states require plumbers to have a license. A
plumber's salary can vary depending on experience and geographic location. Plumbers Proctorville Ohio


Plumbers can choose to specialize in residential or commercial plumbing.Residential plumbers focus on fixing and installing pipe systems in residential
buildings. Commercial plumbers are more involved with industrial equipment and tanks.


Plumbing is an essential element of most homes, factories, and officebuildings. It is necessary for the proper functioning of potable water and
sewage, as well as for irrigation. Plumbers must understand the functions of
water and drainage systems and how to use the correct tools and materials.
Their knowledge is also valuable in identifying the cause of problems, and
troubleshooting them. During the installation process, plumbers make sure that
the materials used are in compliance with local and federal regulations.


Typical plumbing tasks include: repairs of pipes and fixtures, leakdetection, and inspection. Many plumbers also work in the fields of design and
construction. They are responsible for creating detailed plans to solve a range
of problems. Other plumbers may work on smaller scale projects for homeowners.
In addition, plumbers often work with other construction workers and general
contractors to make the construction process efficient.


A successful plumber must have excellent communication skills. They must beable to explain their work to customers and colleagues, as well as communicate
effectively with managers, owners, and material suppliers. They must have good
motor skills and strong vision.


A plumber's job requires the ability to think logically and creatively, andto be flexible. Many plumbers have to work in narrow, dark spaces. To be
successful, plumbers must be able to explain complex ideas in simple,
understandable terms.


Plumbers typically begin their careers in apprenticeship programs. Theseprograms, usually sponsored by a company or union, usually last four to five
years. During the program, apprentices learn how to use a variety of tools and
techniques. Once a plumber completes his or her apprenticeship, he or she can
apply for a license. Typically, an additional year of experience under a
journeyman plumber will qualify a person to apply for a master plumber's
license.


Plumbers are not required to attend a formal educational program, but it canbe helpful. Depending on the industry, some companies prefer candidates with a
high school diploma or higher. However, some states offer specialty plumbing
licenses, which allow plumbers to run their own businesses. This can be a great
way to increase your earning potential.


Plumbing jobs are varied, with some working in a home, while others travelto several sites each day. Oftentimes, plumbers have to be flexible in their
work schedules and can expect to be on-call throughout their career.


The median pay for plumbers is more than that of most construction trades.They can also enjoy a good outlook for the future. The United States Bureau of
Labor Statistics reports that the number of plumbers will grow at an average
rate of 15% between 2016 and 2026.