What Does a Plumber Do

Plumbing is the system of pipes, fixtures and fittings that deliver water for use in washing, cooking, heating, cooling and more. It also removes waste and sewage from buildings. Robert Keith install, repair and maintain these systems. Their work requires technical knowledge of plumbing codes, regulations and standards as well as physical labor. Plumbers often work in tight spaces and must use specialized tools. They may be called on to inspect the integrity of pipe joints and fittings, diagnose problems with equipment and provide recommendations for improvements.

A building’s plumbing system is complex, with a wide range of pipes, valves and fixtures. It delivers clean, fresh water; removes sewage and waste; and protects against flooding, fire, mold growth and other hazards. Any damage to the plumbing system can lead to expensive repairs and replacements. Regular maintenance and inspections can help reduce the risk of costly problems, however.

The plumbing industry is regulated, with plumbers required to be licensed in most states. Licensing requirements vary by state, but usually involve passing a background check, taking a test and agreeing to abide by a code of conduct. Some states also require a plumber to attend continuing education classes to keep their license current.

People depend on their plumbing to function properly, and a faulty system can cause significant inconvenience and even health risks. This is why it is important to choose a plumbing company that has a good reputation in your area and offers emergency services when needed. A reputable plumbing company will also have a knowledgeable staff that can answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.

One of the most common plumbing problems is a blocked drain. This is typically caused by food debris, hair, oil and other materials that can build up and cause a drain to become blocked or stop working altogether. A plumber will be able to use a variety of tools to unblock a drain, including hand snakes and machine augers.

Besides blocked drains, plumbers are often called out to deal with issues such as leaking toilets, faucets and showerheads. A leaking toilet can cause extensive water damage, while a dripping faucet or showerhead is both inconvenient and can increase your utility bills. Plumbers will be able to fix or replace the faulty fixture and ensure that the problem does not reoccur.

In new constructions, plumbers are responsible for installing the piping that will connect the building to the water supply and drainage systems. They will follow a blueprint or design to determine where the pipes should go, and they will then install them. They will also attach any necessary fixtures and appliances. For larger projects, plumbers may be provided with a design from a plumbing consultant, or they might have to create their own plans. In some cases, they may be asked to work with a structural engineer to ensure that the piping is positioned correctly under the floor and in the walls.