Plumber installs, maintains, repairs and replaces water pipes, drains and fixtures. They also perform inspections to ensure that plumbing systems meet regulatory codes and safety standards.

The path to becoming a plumber starts with an apprenticeship program that typically involves four years of educational hours and on-the-job training under a licensed professional. Then, it’s time to take state-approved exams to get a plumber license.

When a plumber is hired to install a fixture, the project generally starts with mapping out the plumbing system. This involves charting a path through the walls, ceiling and floor that allows new piping to run, including removing drywall and lifting tiles. It also identifies where the water supply lines and waste pipes can enter and leave the home. The plumber then connects the lines to a main water line and adds a meter.

The next step is to expand the piping, installing new piping that carries the water throughout the house. This requires cutting away drywall and lifting tiles, as well as making sure the piping has firm seals and connections. The plumber then hooks up the fixtures and appliances, including showers and sinks. Finally, he checks the plumbing to ensure everything is working properly and that all the drains are flowing.

When a plumber furnishes and installs material that will be resold to a customer, the supplier must collect sales tax on the materials. To claim exemption from sales tax, the plumber must present a resale certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase.

A plumber can fix a multitude of issues, from broken toilets to leaky pipes. They are a resourceful, knowledgeable group of professionals with extensive experience and expertise in their chosen field. They can also recommend the best products for your needs and give you a fair price for their work. They are also well versed in the latest technological advancements and can advise you on energy efficient solutions to reduce your utility bills. They are also a great source of advice on how to handle your plumbing system and avoid costly and time-consuming repairs in the future.

The right one will get the job done and leave your home or office looking like new. They will also provide courteous and efficient service, leaving no mess behind. A plumber is the smart choice for any homeowner or business owner when it comes to repairing any plumbing system. You may even want to consider hiring a plumber for other related services such as heating and cooling, and property line alterations.

There are a variety of maintenance services that can be performed by a plumber. These can include cleaning drains, repairing pipes, and performing other tasks that help keep your plumbing system functioning properly.

Regularly scheduled plumbing maintenance is an excellent way to keep your home or business’s water systems in good working order. It can detect small issues early on and prevent them from becoming bigger problems that require expensive repairs.

During a routine maintenance service, your plumber will perform inspections of all of your plumbing components and fixtures, including toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and water heaters. They will also check for leaks, drips, and other signs of potential problems that could lead to flooding or other severe issues if not addressed promptly.

Your plumber can also replace your older, aging pipes if they have started to degrade or corrode. This is especially important if you have pipes that are made from galvanized iron, which was commonly used in homes built years ago.

A plumber can also perform hydro jetting, a process that utilizes high-pressured water to break up and remove stubborn clogs. This is a great option if your drains are frequently clogged and can’t be cleared with standard tools.

You can also choose to have a plumbing expert install new faucets and other fixtures in your home or commercial property. These can be done quickly and correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of damage and interruptions to your plumbing system.