What They Do

Housing plumbers install piping for water systems, drain, waste and vent piping systems, irrigation and lawn sprinkler systems, domestic swimming pools, domestic vacuum cleaning systems, water mains, chemical fire protection, storm and sanitary sewers, residential gas, oil, heating and air conditioning piping, as well as bathroom, toilet room and shower room accessories. They install the above piping systems on single family and multi-family and residential projects up to five stories in height. They also work on hotels and motels up to and including three stories in height. The housing plumber installs all of the fixtures and appurtenances for the above mentioned projects. They use both hand and power tools in their work for cutting, bending and threading pipe. They join pipe using various techniques such as soldering, brazing, gluing and use of mechanical joints. Housing plumbers must also run tests on their installations to assure that the system is functioning properly and meets the plumbing code. They are also called upon to clear pipelines and drains and to make repairs on fixtures and leaking pipes.

Working Conditions

Plumbers work outdoors in all kinds of weather, as well as indoors. They work on ladders, in trenches, or in unfinished sections of a new building. Often this work is done in cramped, wet or dirty locations. It is frequently necessary to stand for long periods of time. Occasionally, work must be done in uncomfortable positions and relatively inaccessible places.

Interest and Temperament

Plumbers must be able to understand detailed written and verbal instructions. They must be able to plan ahead and visualize completed projects. They should enjoy working with their hands and occasionally accept unfavorable working conditions and have the ability to solve math problems quickly and accurately. Plumbers must be willing to keep abreast of changes and advancing techniques after their apprenticeship is complete and throughout their plumbing careers.