Plumber Basics

A plumber is someone whose profession is involved in the installation, repair and maintenance of systems used in sewage, water supply and drain systems. Plumbers are involved in all kinds of plumbing projects such as fixing septic tanks, repairing water pipes, replacing and installing plumbing equipment, sewer cleaning, etc. Most of the projects a plumber takes up require the use of advanced tools and machines that are not easily available to homeowners. To carry out all these projects efficiently and safely, a plumber needs to be well versed with all the plumbing technologies, tools and machines that are required to carry out various plumbing jobs.

A residential plumber may take up any one of the following plumbing jobs. He can fix septic tanks and joints, test and maintain water pipes, repair drains and sewerage pipelines, install and repair lighting and heating fixtures in a home, etc. Plumber in Kansas City, MO can work on commercial and institutional buildings also. One can get a plumber either by approaching him directly or hiring him through an agency. There are many agencies and private organizations that provide residential and commercial plumbing services. One can easily locate a plumber through the yellow pages or by searching online.

Plumbers often work alone. They work independently because they do not work for companies or individuals personally. In a large establishment like a hospital or a big business firm, the plumbers often work as representatives of the company. In small enterprises, most of the plumbers work as solo contractors. One advantage of being a plumber working alone is that one can fix and maintain the plumbing system at a smaller scale and thereby save money and time.

A plumber who works independently may work either as an unlicensed contractor or he may work as an employee of an established plumbing company. He prepares all the necessary plans and equipment required for the repairs. Some of the plumbers who work independently may work as freelancers. They obtain their licenses at their discretion. Though some of them work for established plumbing companies, most of them initially work as solo contractors.

The plumbers may work in groups under the names of construction tradesmen or electricians. They have to meet specific qualifications, which include good knowledge of construction trades, a valid license, and the ability to follow instructions diligently. Though most of them are employed in big construction trades, some of them have worked as plumbers in smaller enterprises. The average number of hours these plumbers work in a week is 40 hours.

Many plumbing firms and construction firms provide plumbers to install and repair pipes. They also provide services like installing faucets, toilets, heating systems, drains and showers. To have a fair idea about the range of plumbing fixtures that a plumber can provide, go online and visit a website that provides a database of plumbers. This database will allow you to find plumbers in your locality easily. You can even read reviews written by customers on these websites to find the best plumber.