Part of the job includes reading drawings and blueprints in order to determine the layout of water supply systems, as well as systems for venting and waste. Another large part of plumbing is the installation, repair, and maintenance of domestic, industrial, and commercial plumbing systems.
Plumbers must be able to test pipes for leaks and be knowledgeable of pipe connections, fixtures in walls and floors, and passage holes. Measuring, bending, cutting, and threading pipes with power tools, machines, and other hand tools is required as well.
There are several different categories of plumbing systems and subsystems. These include traps, drains, and vents, septic systems, potable cold and hot water supply, fuel gas piping, and rainwater, surface, and subsurface water drainage.
There are many different types of equipment used in the plumbing industry, some of which are water meters, expansion tanks, pumps, filters, water softeners, backflow preventers, wrenches, water heaters, gauges, control systems, and heat exchangers.
Due to the many technological advances in recent years, there are much more advanced tools that assist plumbers in fixing problems. One such tool is a special type of video camera that can be used to inspect for hidden leaks and problems. Other tools now available to plumbers include hydro jets and high pressure hydraulic pumps that are connected to steel cables that assist in sewer line replacement.
Safety plays a large part in plumbing as there are safety regulations and standards that must be met. Work that is done in populated areas is usually regulated by some type of government agency because of the direct impact on public health, safety, and overall welfare. There are certain building codes in place for installation and repair work that is done on residences and other buildings that are meant to protect the inhabitants of the building. Building codes also ensures safe and quality construction.
Tap water is one of the most common components of indoor plumbing. Indoor plumbing first became available during the end of the 19th century and more common during the 20th century. The plumbing industry is a vital part to any developed country and economy because of the need for clean drinking water, proper collection and transportation of waste.
People that are interested in becoming plumbers should first complete high school and take any vocational courses if offered, such as plumbing or blueprint reading. Check for local opportunities in the local area and search the Internet for information on the current field. If joining the local plumbers union, there is a four-year apprenticeship involving 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 200 hours of class work that must be completed. Another option is to attend a trade school, many of which have job-placement services for their students. It is also possible to get hired by small, local plumbing contractors for assistant or apprenticeship positions. Above all, investigate and know the licensing requirements for plumbers.