Traditionally, plumbers have been called upon to deal with plumbing problems and emergencies in homes and buildings. They can also install and maintain water and sewage systems and appliances. They may work independently or in a team. They can be hired to help design or build new homes and businesses.
Depending on the state, plumbers may be required to obtain a license or pass an exam. Some states require two to five years of experience before a license is granted, while others have a shorter, more rigorous apprenticeship program. The average pay for a qualified plumber is between $45 and $200 per hour. They are usually self-employed, but can set their own schedules.
Some plumbers specialize in new construction, while others focus on repairing existing plumbing systems. Most of them are unionized, which means they are paid a percentage of their wages in union fees. These fees help provide insurance, pension, and other benefits. Most plumbers pay between 20 percent and 25 percent of their wages to the union.
Plumbers have to have good manual dexterity and a great attention to detail. They have to be able to read blueprints, explain their work to customers, and troubleshoot problems. They must also have the phd plumbers ability to lift heavy equipment and be able to handle plumbing tools. They have to be able to install pipes, fittings, and fixtures.
They may have to travel long distances to different work sites. They may have to deal with bad weather, as they are often working outside. They need to have an in-depth knowledge of the local codes. They may have to join the union, as they need to cover many costs.
Some plumbers specialize in air conditioning, sanitation, or residential plumbing. They can also work in factories or office buildings. Some may even own their own plumbing business. A few may become instructors at their local colleges.
Plumbers are in high demand. The demand for plumbers is increasing at a rate faster than the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for plumbers is expected to be faster than the national average through 2026. There are more jobs than there are skilled plumbers to fill them. The best plumbers are hard-working, flexible, and patient. They have an in-depth understanding of hydraulic systems, hydraulic fluids, and pumping systems. They are also able to troubleshoot malfunctioning pipe systems.
Unlike other professions, plumbers do not need a college degree. However, they do need a high school diploma. An apprenticeship program is usually sponsored by a company or union, and varies in length from four to five years. It requires on-the-job training and educational hours.
Once a plumber has completed his or her apprenticeship, he or she can take the journeyman plumber’s licensing test. Those who pass will receive a journeyman’s license. After that, they must pass a state plumbing exam to obtain a master’s plumbing license. After the master’s license, a plumber can earn higher wages.