What Is the Job of a Plumber?

West Chester Plumber installs, maintains, and repairs pipes that supply water and gas to, as well as carry waste away from, homes and businesses. They also install plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs, sinks, and toilets.

The job requires excellent problem-solving skills, a knack for reading blueprints, and a mechanically inclined mind. It also entails working in tight spaces and being physically fit.

Plumbers are responsible for repairing and maintaining pipes, fixtures and other systems that allow liquids and gases to flow. They work in residential and commercial settings, handling water pipes, sewer and gas lines, HVAC systems and waste management sites. They may also work in specialized plumbing companies or independently.

To get started as a plumber, you can complete an apprenticeship, attend a trade school or start working under a licensed professional. An apprenticeship combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. It typically takes about four to five years for apprentices to earn a certification, which is required to obtain licensing.

Several community colleges and technical schools offer plumbing programs. Some include degrees and certificates, while others focus on specific areas of the plumbing industry. 

High school students interested in plumbing can take a career and technical education (CTE) class through their local Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). These classes are typically two years and are open to juniors and seniors, although some adults may also qualify for the program.

In addition to the classroom training, apprentices participate in hands-on fieldwork under a licensed plumber. This includes learning how to read blueprints and local plumbing codes, and how to perform repairs and maintenance on various types of plumbing.

There are several apprenticeship opportunities available, including those offered through the United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders and Service Technicians (UA). UA locals across the state provide full-ride apprenticeships for plumbing, pipe fitting, heating and welding.

Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you may be eligible to apply for a journeyman or master plumber license, which is required by most states and localities. You will need at least 6,000 hours of training under a licensed plumber before you can write the exam and become a licensed professional.

Getting a plumber’s license is a process that can take a long time. It requires a combination of experience and passing an exam, which tests your knowledge of plumbing and local laws. In some states, it is possible to complete your license online, while in others, it must be completed in person.

Plumbers are responsible for installing pipes and plumbing fixtures that carry water, gas and other fluids in homes and businesses. They also work with systems that transport waste away from homes and businesses.

A career as a plumber requires attention to detail and problem-solving skills. It involves working in tight spaces and using a variety of specialized equipment.

Most plumbers learn their trade through an apprenticeship program, which includes classroom studies and on-the-job training. A high school diploma is usually required, but many plumbers also attend technical schools.

The job duties of a plumber include installing and repairing piping and fixtures that carry liquids or gases in homes, businesses and factories. They study blueprints and follow building codes to ensure plumbing is installed safely and correctly.

They test and inspect the system to identify and fix issues before they become too serious. Furthermore, they also help draft blueprints and ensure that all work is done according to the plans.

In addition to their primary responsibilities, plumbers perform a number of administrative tasks, including estimating repair costs and maintaining inventory. They also document the work they do, which is essential for ensuring clients understand what has been done and when.

Plumbers can work full time or part-time and are often on call for emergencies, including evening and weekend hours. They must have a strong work ethic and be able to lift heavy materials.