There has been a significant increase in the demand for the plumbing trade in recent years. Most aspiring plumbers are looking for ways to get their plumbing licenses and start working.
The demand for those already in the profession has been higher than ever. This demand comes due to several reasons, for example, above-average pay and job security.
The process of getting a plumber license is straightforward in most states across the US. Plumbers usually start as apprentices, although it may not be compulsory.
Through apprenticeship programs, they can learn the basics of the plumbing trade and work with licensed plumbers. Once they do so, they can get their plumbing licenses for the state in which they operate.
Plumbing is a highly sought-after profession across the US. People are willing to pay high premiums to get plumbing services.
For most aspiring plumbers, that alone is a reason to choose plumbing as a career. However, some factors may play a role in their success. Similarly, professional plumbers ensure they don’t make any mistakes that can cost them their success.
Five things one should not do as a plumber
There are some things that plumbers don’t do while working on plumbing tasks. These things can affect their work or gain a negative reputation. Among these, the top five are as below.
They don’t work on pipes while the water is on
Plumbing requires plumbers to work with pipes of different types. These pipes may be carrying hot or cold water. However, plumbers ensure they turn the water off when they start working on them.
Not only does it not stop water from leaking but it also makes the work much easier. Plumbers make sure they aren’t working on live pipes while working.
Working on live pipes can cause many problems. Even isolated pipes can cause problems if they have water in them and they are cut. They can cause mold and damage to homeowners.
While plumbers get insured for these things before they join the trade, it is still something they must consider. It is a rookie mistake that only newcomers commit.
They don’t fill up pipes with chemicals
Another mistake that most people make is when working on clogged pipes. They usually put chemicals of some sort into these pipes in the hope that they will open.
However, that is a mistake. Most plumbers avoid using chemicals to open up clogged pipes. There are various reasons why they do so. It is a mistake that residents usually make.
Chemicals are dangerous, and pouring them into the pipes can damage the structure. On top of that, chemicals can also be harmful to the people around them.
Any slight mistake or error can cause severe problems. Similarly, they can cause water pipes corrosion, leading to leakage down the line. Overall, plumbers avoid using chemicals.
They don’t ignore small problems
Most plumbers usually identify and fix more problems than they originally had. They don’t ignore smaller issues when they have other tasks.
Most homeowners tend to put off plumbing maintenance problems in the future. However, they end up causing even more problems.
For plumbers, identifying and correcting problems is a crucial task. They inspect everything that may affect their work and find more problems than anticipated.
Plumbers also fix even the most minor issues because they understand these problems can cause more damage later. Overall, plumbers don’t put off any problems.
They don’t ignore safety
For most plumbers, safety is a priority when working on various plumbing tasks. Safety is crucial because these plumbers can be around several dangers in their work.
For example, they usually work with gas pipelines and chemicals. Similarly, they may have to work in tight or cramped spaces or work in risky locations.
Overall, safety comes first for plumbers. They don’t ignore their safety protocols when working on tasks. No matter how small or large the job may be, they always ensure they take the proper measures before beginning.
For example, they wear protective goggles or hard hats when they are working near hazardous equipment.
They don’t overtighten
Most novice plumbers or homeowners may think overtightening joints can help stop leakage. It is actually the opposite. Overtightening can cause leaks and even damage the pipes.
Some pipes may even break down due to overtightening. On top of that, fixing the remaining material inside the joints can be almost impossible.
This principle applies to every plumbing system on which plumbers work. Master plumbers tighten up to a certain extent by measuring how much they must do so.
For even better protection against leakage, they use Teflon and Dope tape. They can also use other methods to tighten joints, for example, using oil to lubricate them.
Conclusion
Plumbing is a job that is in high demand around the US. Most aspiring plumbers want to join the field to make more money. Some may also like it because it is relatively inexpensive.
For novice and master plumbers, there are some mistakes they must avoid when working in plumbing. A list of the top mistakes is given above.