What You Didn’t Know About Being a Plumber

When you think of plumbers the first thing you may think they are the guys you call when you need your leaky pipes fixed. However, plumbers are so much more than just home repairmen. Here are three things you didn’t know about being a plumber.

Plumbers Are Going Green

Like construction workers, plumbers are also getting in on environmentally friendly building and maintenance. They are becoming your go-to tradesmen for making sure your home or business is running as efficiently as it can be with water usage energy audits. With certification programs like this one from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, plumbers are getting educated in conservation measures, solar heater design and installation as well new green technologies. Plumbers are also called on to give product recommendations for green plumbing products like tankless water heaters.

Plumbers are in Demand

Contrary to what many believe, there is a high demand for plumbers in the blue collar job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of these tradesmen is expected to grow 21 percent by 2022, which is more than the average labor job. The reasons for this high demand include the surge in new construction of both residential and commercial properties. These commercial properties include new plants and properties that will need the expertise of steamfitters and pipefitters. The standards for water efficiency are becoming more stringent so it’s up to plumbers to make sure that plumbing systems are up to code.

It Requires Real Skills

While you don’t need a college degree to become a plumber that doesn’t mean you can become one right out of high school. You need to get the right post-secondary education as well as on-the-job training before becoming a licensed plumber. You’ll be required to learn about plumbing system design, how to use the basic tools and safety as well as work with journeymen and master plumbers. Aside from the mechanical skills you’ll need to be a successful plumber, you’ll also need to know how to troubleshoot pipe system problems by doing diagnostic tests and performing the necessary repairs. Plumbing also requires physical strength to lift and move heavy piping and customer service skills to deal effectively with customers and clients.

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