Plumbing is a field that focuses on conveying fluids for a variety of applications. It makes use of pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, tanks, and other apparatuses to perform this work. These tools are necessary in many different areas of life, including homes and businesses. A plumber’s career will provide them with a variety of challenges and opportunities.
Common types of pipes
There are two common types of pipes used in plumbing: PVC and PEX. Both are incredibly flexible and strong. PVC pipes are commonly used in new homes, and PEX is becoming a more popular option for existing homes. PEX pipes can be made to fit through walls and can be easily cut and joined with no soldering or gluing required. They are also incredibly durable, and can handle both hot and cold water.
Another type of piping is HDPE, or High-Density Polybutylene, which is widely used in plumbing and irrigation systems. It is resistant to freezing temperatures and is flexible enough to be installed underground. It is typically blue or black in color. HDPE is also more flexible than PVC and requires minimal joints.
Its joints are made using heat fusion, which ensures a leak-proof seal. PVC pipes can be found in a variety of thicknesses, shapes, and configurations. When used by a plumbing company, make sure to check for NSF-PW or NSF-61 labels, as these indicate that the material meets NSF standards. These types of pipes are generally durable and can withstand high pressure.
Copper pipes are another type of pipe used in plumbing. Copper is a soft metal that resists rust and can be bent. It is ideal for carrying potable water. Copper pipes are incredibly durable and can handle high pressure. They come in four different types, with Type-L being the most commonly used in residential plumbing.
Copper pipes are available in a variety of sizes, and the two most popular types are 15mm and 22mm. However, there are also several larger sizes up to 108mm. Copper piping is also available in Type M Copper, which is the thinnest type of copper used in plumbing. This type is used more for drain, waste, and vent piping, and is also useful for hot and cold supply lines in the interior of the home.
Plumbing pipes are used for two main purposes: carrying water and delivering waste. Pipes have been used for drainage systems since ancient times. The Greeks used clay pipes for water transport. Later, cast iron, terra-cotta, copper, and galvanized steel became more popular as they contain enzymes which limit bacterial growth.
Drain pipes are used for flushing out sewage and greater from the building. Supply lines are used to supply water to sinks, baths, and washing machines. Vent pipes do not carry water, but are used to regulate air in the plumbing system. This helps prevent slow drainage. The pipe should have a trap to keep noxious gasses out.
Qualifications for becoming a plumber
A plumbing career requires a high level of technical skills. Plumbers install new faucets and unclog drains and work in both residential and commercial areas. They can also work for water treatment facilities, power plants, factories, and waste disposal facilities. They also maintain pipeline systems.
These professionals are responsible for a wide variety of tasks and must possess excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work without supervision. The process to become a plumber requires years of training. An apprentice must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Once they have successfully passed the aptitude exam, they are then evaluated by a panel of established plumbers. If they pass, they begin their work with a starting salary of forty-five percent of the minimum regulated wage. The wage increases each year. In addition, apprentices work under a senior tradesperson, who supervises their work.
Many states require plumbers to be licensed. The requirements to become a plumber differ between states, but they generally include a certain number of classroom hours and practical experience. In addition to this, many states also require that plumbers complete a licensing exam. This exam tests plumbers’ knowledge of plumbing codes and procedures.
To become a master plumber, an applicant must have 6,000 hours of apprenticeship training and have passed a state-approved plumbing exam. Those who are only beginning their apprenticeships must have at least two years of experience under a licensed plumber. They must be at least eighteen years old and have a high school diploma.
Qualifications for becoming a plumber may not be as rigid as other occupations. A high school diploma is the minimum requirement, but applicants should have a basic understanding of algebra and math. In addition, plumbers are often required to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of basic calculations.
Job duties of a plumber
The job duties of a plumber include maintaining water systems and pipelines, repairing leaks and fixtures, and installing new ones. Plumbers are also responsible for cleaning up debris and assessing the condition of a building’s drainage system.
They must also be knowledgeable about water saving devices and safety standards, and have undergone training in plumbing systems. In addition, plumbers are required to have licenses to do construction work. They work long hours, including weekends and evenings. Plumbing is an incredibly versatile profession, requiring the use of many different tools.
A plumber will have to use wrenches and pliers, bend pipes, and use power tools to install and repair pipes and fittings. They will also be expected to use specialized measuring tools and power tools to ensure that the pipes are straight, round, or of the proper angle. Plumbing jobs can also include repairing gas leaks, water heaters, and appliances.
Plumbing professionals can work independently or as part of a larger organization. Depending on the region and job duties, according to this site, plumbers are paid between $30 and $90,530 annually on average. The bottom ten percent earns just over $35,000 per year. Plumbing professionals must be in good physical condition to perform their job duties.
The job also requires good problem-solving skills. Those who are naturally curious and can think outside the box will thrive in this career. As with any job in construction, plumbers must be licensed in their state to practice. Obtaining a license is a necessity and requires completing an apprenticeship program.
This apprenticeship program is four to five years long and requires a combination of classroom and on-the-job training. During this time, plumbers work on actual job sites and are paid hourly. Apprentices start at half the hourly rate of a journey person and increase their wages as they progress through the apprenticeship.