When you think about plumbers, you may mainly think about pipes and toilets because that's what they're shown repairing in the movies. However, plumbers do repair and install so much more than just pipes and toilets.
What Is a Plumber?
A plumber is someone who attended trade school to become licensed in plumbing. They are generally in charge of fixing and repairing things that are related to water and piping. This includes appliances that utilize water, like water heaters.
Examples of a Plumber's Duties
Plumbers have a substantial amount of responsibilities.
Those responsibilities include:
- Water heater repair
- Leaky pipe repair
- Hose spigot installation
- Sink installation
Some plumbers also offer their services in the event of an emergency.
What Is an Emergency Plumber?
An emergency plumber is a licensed plumber who offers their services 24/7. You can call these plumbers any time of the day, and they will come to help you in the event of an emergency. The only difference is because emergency plumbers will work any hour of the day, they will charge more than the average plumber would during regular business days.
Examples of Plumbing Emergencies
The following are some emergencies you may need to contact an emergency plumber for assistance with:
- Damaged pipes
- Frozen pipes
- Clogged drain
- Gas leak
- Large water leaks
Regular Plumber vs. Emergency Plumber Cost
Depending on what needs to be repaired, a regular plumber can charge anywhere between $40 to $150. On the other hand, an emergency plumber is known for charging between $100 to $500, sometimes even more than that.
Becoming a Plumber
The first step in becoming a plumber is graduating high school or obtaining a G.E.D. A college education or diploma is not needed, but you can attend a trade school if you would like to widen your knowledge. If trade school is not for you, there is also a paid apprenticeship option. Completing an apprenticeship gives you the experience and knowledge you need.
The apprenticeship is fully supervised, and you may be required to also take a class or two while completing it. Apprenticeships last between 4-5 years. During the last year, the apprentice would begin preparation for the exam to become a journeyman plumber.
A journeyman plumber is registered with the state, but still not licensed. In most places, you will be required to be a journeyman for 2-5 years. Journeymen do not need to be supervised like an apprentice. After completing your time as a journeyman, you can take another exam to become a master plumber and become licensed. Being a master plumber enables you to own your own plumbing business.
