How to become A Plumber

They may not be high on one’s list of glamorous professionals. Still, it is next to impossible to lead a comfortable life without Plumbers who install and maintain pipes and fixtures in any location that needs running water.

• Drain Technician
• Residential Plumber
• Service Plumber
• Commercial Plumber

What do Plumbers do?

A Plumber would typically need to:

• Install and maintain pipes in residential, commercial and industrial buildings for potable water, heating, drainage, irrigation and sewage purposes
• Read blueprints and drawings to understand or plan the layout of plumbing, waste disposal and water supply systems, keeping in mind local building codes
• Determine the materials and equipment needed for a job; prepare cost estimates for the clients
• Cut, assemble and install pipes and tubes with attention to existing infrastructure such as the electrical wiring
• Inspect and test installed pipe systems and pipelines to ensure they are airtight and watertight
• Maintain, troubleshoot and repair malfunctioning plumbing systems; repair or replace broken drainage lines, clogged drains, and faucets
• Install and fix home appliances such as showers, sinks, cookers, gas fires and washing machines; service air conditioning and ventilation units and radiators
• Attend emergency calls to locate and fix issues with water supply lines (e.g. leaks), especially during cold weather; fix weather-proof material to roofs, chimneys and walls
• Fitting and joining rainwater, soil and drainage pipes; undertake routine servicing of boilers and other appliances
• Assist in the maintenance of septic systems - large, underground holding tanks that collect waste from houses not connected to a public sewer system
• Help develop blueprints that show the placement of pipes and fixtures when working as a master plumber; ensure the plumbing meets building codes
• Save architects time and money by sharing their expertise in determining the best positions for wall passage and fixture locations

Plumbers work in factories, homes, businesses and wherever running water is an essential feature. They climb ladders, lift heavy material and work in tight spaces. 

Some travel to worksites every day and may also need to factor in overnight stays away from home. Outdoor work in all weather conditions may be necessary.

In general, Plumbers work full time, including nights, weekends and holidays. They are often on call to handle emergencies. Self-employed professionals may be able to set their own hours.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Plumbers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting employers directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Self-employment and consultancy are viable options.

Plumbers are generally employed by:

• Building Contractors
• Construction Firms
• Architectural Firms
• Educational Institutions
• Airports
• Municipal Authorities
• The Armed Forces
• Owners of Buses, Recreational Vehicles, Large Aeroplanes, Yachts and Cruise Ships

Most Plumbers belong to trade unions that provide training and certification programs in addition to health insurance, vacation and retirement benefits. You are likely to earn more money and have better job security if associated with a union.

Professional associations and organisations such as The World Plumbing Council are crucial for a Plumber interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Susceptibility to injuries such as cuts from sharp tools, burns from hot pipes and soldering equipment and falls from ladders
• Neck, shoulder and back problems from carrying heavy tools and material and being on call 24/7/365
• The need to work at heights, in confined spaces around electrical work, natural gas lines and human waste and all sorts of weather
• Unsteady source of income until well-established in the field
• High probability of going home with the lingering smells from the drains and sewage

Self-employed Plumbers may not need any other qualifications apart from an established reputation for doing consistently excellent work. 

However, individuals who seek employment will do well to enrol in an apprenticeship program where they receive four to five years of paid, on-the-job training and access to classroom instruction through a day or block-release course at a technical-vocational school.

Often, unions, trade associations and local businesses sponsor apprenticeship programs. Most applicants enter a program directly, but some begin as helpers or complete a pre-apprenticeship training program.

A high school diploma or equivalent is the typical qualification required to become a plumber. Vocational-technical schools offer courses in pipe system design, safety and use of tools. 

It may take between four and seven years to become a journey-level plumber who does the job under the supervision of a Master Plumber. This period includes the time required to obtain a trade school diploma or associate degree and complete an apprenticeship.

Some educational providers offer diverse levels of technical certificates in mechanical engineering services - plumbing. Trainees learn about water regulations assessment, unvented hot water assessment and gas safety competence during short intensive training courses, some with home-study options.

Make sure your high school classes include math, physics and chemistry because your vocational-technical course will consist of all those subjects in addition to safety, drafting, blueprint reading, applied physics and local plumbing codes & regulations.

Optional certification in plumbing design from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and advance your career.

Aspiring Plumbers require a valid license to practice the profession. In addition, most employers mandate a driving license. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination to prove their trade knowledge, and relevant education and experience. Contact your local licensing board for requisite details.

Registration is a legal requirement for anyone installing or repairing gas fittings or appliances. Plumbers who work on gas installations must register themselves with the relevant local authorities and acquire the pertinent ID card before they start work.

Prospective employers also stipulate a background check. An employment background check can include but is not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drives career progression. 

Significantly experienced Plumbers who pass a qualifying exam can become Master Plumbers, Supervisors or Project Managers. You can specialise in heating, ventilation, refrigeration or air conditioning. Some Plumbers advance into design consultancy, teaching and management.

You can also choose to become an independent contractor and run your own business or specialist firm after acquiring additional licensure.

Candidates who have certification in specialist areas, licensure and significant experience, have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Plumber build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Journey-level Plumbers can raise their qualifications to master plumber level by preparing for and passing a comprehensive exam. 

Those who meet the eligibility requirements may obtain endorsements for medical gas piping installation or expertise in multipurpose residential fire protection or water supply protection.

Tools of the Trade

Plumbers use drills, saws, welding torches, press-fitting tools, and drain cleaning tools in addition to copper, steel and plastic pipes.

A Rewarding Career

Licensed Plumbers tend to remain in the profession for their entire careers. Many continue part-time, past the usual retirement age, readying future generations with apprenticeships and learning opportunities.

Future Prospects

There are plentiful opportunities in residential, commercial and industrial plumbing. The need for qualified plumbers is constantly growing.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Plumbers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Plumber has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The flushing toilet gets its nickname ‘The John’ from its inventor John Harrington and the term ‘Crapper’ comes from Thomas Crapper, who made the toilet widely popular.

Whether they are on call 24/7/365 as employees of a small plumbing company or the owner of the company, there will always be pipes, wrenches and elbow grease in the lives of Plumbers who install and maintain well-functioning systems that transport water, waste, gases or hot liquids.

“Trade is the way to go. You get benefits, like no debt from college, a paid apprenticeship and paid internships. Education can be provided for you if you find the right company or go through a union. After four years, you have a license making a plumbing journeyman’s rate. After that, the sky's the limit. You can be a worker, foreman, manager, road super, project manager or own your own company. It is all up to you.”

Travis P. Abaire, Owner of T.A.P. Plumbing.