Leaking Pipe Or Clogged Drain, Call The Plumbers

By Adriana Noton

Plumbers are professionals that work in homes, commercial or public buildings. They install and repair pipes for fresh water, waste and the gas systems in these buildings. In addition they can install fixtures like tubs, showers, toilets and sinks. They may also install appliances like garbage disposals, dishwashers or water heaters.

There are several ways that a plumber can enter the trade. Many learn through an apprenticeship program. While at one time this simply meant getting a job with another plumber and working your way up through the trade, today many of the apprentice programs are administered through community colleges. The apprentice must spend several years on the job and taking classes before becoming a plumber.

Most states have requirements that plumbers be licensed. Before taking the test, they must show proof of their work experience. The test shows their knowledge of local codes and of the trade.

If you are building a new home, you will need the help of a plumbing contractor. The contractor will be able to read your blueprints for the home and provide necessary materials for the plumbing portion of the construction. He will need to do "rough in" plumbing before the concrete floors are poured. Once the floors are poured and the stud walls are in place he will return to do "stub out plumbing." Finally, once the walls are finished, the floor coverings are in place and the cabinets are built, he will return a third time to install the fixtures and appliances.

Once you are in your new home or office building, you may not need a plumber very often. Many times plumbing systems are designed for many years of trouble free operation. However, over time, leaks and clogs may develop, resulting in the need for you to call the professional back to your home.

In homes, you can often avoid having to call the professional out with a few tips.

In kitchens, avoid pouring oils and greases down the drain. They are likely to harden somewhere down the ling and cause a clog to form. This clog may just stop the sink from draining, but it can also stop everything in the home from draining correctly. In addition, do not overload your garbage disposal and allow plenty of fresh water to flow when it is in use.

In the bathroom, use screens over the shower, tub and sink drains to prevent a hair clog from forming. These removable screens can be cleaned after each shower and help to prevent a slow draining fixture.

One tool that should be kept in every home is a plunger. This tool can easily dislodge many drain plugs and may save you money on plumbing repairs. You may want to purchase one that is designed for use in toilets and another that is designed for use in sinks, tubs and basins.

If you have a home repair in your plumbing system, then licensed plumbers can make that repair in an efficient manner so that you will once again have fresh water flowing into your home and drains that flow freely. - 30517

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here