Plumbing is a complex job that requires training and experience to be carried out professionally. At The Trades College, we’re a trade school in the UK that offers a variety of courses, including plumbing.
Clients will want to hire a good-quality plumber, as they’re paying for the service to be carried out to a high standard. But what makes a good plumber? Keep reading to find out!
Certified
All good plumbers will be qualified to carry out their job effectively. This means holding some form of plumbing certification – in the UK, this will most likely be awarded by City & Guilds in the form of an NVQ. If a plumber is working with gas equipment, they should be Gas Safe registered. This means they are qualified to work with gas and can do so safely.
Plumbers can gain qualifications in a few different ways, whether that be through an apprenticeship or a fast-track plumbing course. Both of these methods will supply them with the correct skills and qualifications upon completion. It’s a good idea to check a plumber’s qualifications before allowing them to work within your home. They should be able to supply proof of their relevant certifications.
Experienced
A plumber may be qualified, but the experience is extremely important, too. Many professional plumbers will have completed training through an apprenticeship, which will have provided them with on-site experience. Plumbers with 10+ years of experience, however, will be more skilled and efficient than less experienced plumbers. They’ll have seen and fixed a wider range of plumbing problems, meaning they’re more likely to be able to solve any issue you might have. You can always ask how many years of experience a plumber has if you’re unsure, it’ll give you a better idea of their skills and knowledge.
Mechanically inclined
Having the analytical skills to identify and solve problems is important, but that means nothing without the mechanical inclination to physically fix plumbing systems. Understanding the complex mechanics of various plumbing systems is necessary for fault-finding and repair. Good mechanical knowledge will help the plumber to understand the basics. This includes knowing how valves work and which pipe/tubing is required where. This knowledge can be learned through a plumbing course or apprenticeship – a trade school in the UK will be able to provide this for you.
Safe
Safety is of the utmost importance in any scenario. There are plenty of hazards when it comes to plumbing, so plumbers need to prioritise the safety of themselves and those around them. Especially if they’re working with gas systems, a plumber should take out every possible precaution to ensure processes are carried out safely. Plumbers can be held liable for damages or injury caused by unsafe practices, so safe working is a sign of a good plumber who knows about relevant regulations.
Punctual
Being on time is good practice for any job. Plumbers should always stay punctual in their job. They should keep the client updated with arrival times as well as how long the work should take to complete. Tardiness can create a negative impression, impacting customer service. A good plumber will not only complete the job efficiently and to a high standard, but also create a positive customer experience.
Coordinated
Many plumbers will be required to work in cramped spaces. They may also need to use different tools and equipment for one job. In both of these situations, it would be beneficial to have good coordination skills. When a plumber has good coordination skills, they’ll often spend less time completing a job, saving time for themselves and their customers.
A problem-solver
Problem-solving and fault-finding are key when it comes to many trades, including plumbing. They need to assess problems, find the issue, and figure out the solution. Determining the ideal course of action to solve the problem in high-pressure situations is an important skill to have. This could be the difference between efficiently solving a problem or potentially causing further issues.
Learn at a trade school in the UK
Want to become a good plumber? The Trades College is a trade school in the UK, offering a range of vocational courses. You can check out all of our courses on our website, or get in touch with us to discuss your options!
