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If you've ever wondered “What does a plumber do?”, the answer depends on their qualifications and area of specialism. Not all plumbers do the same type of work, and different plumbers are available with different expertise depending on the job.
Whether your problem is domestic or commercial, relating to your heating or water supply, or if you have an emergency, finding the right plumber for the job is an important step.
So, what do plumbers fix? Domestic and commercial plumbers undertake a range of work relating to the fixtures and fittings of plumbing systems. Typically, this can include:
Dripping taps – replacing washers, tightening connections or replacing
Leaking toilets – fixing or replacing flush mechanisms and tightening connections
Leaking pipes – replacing damaged or worn pipes and sealing joints
Outdoor taps – installing and fixing taps exterior to the property
In emergency situations, plumbers can respond quickly to assist with various problems including:
Burst pipes – assessing, repairing and replacing burst pipes
Damaged pipework – replacing or repairing damaged sections of pipework
Water supply pipes – installing, repairing or replacing water supply pipes (if they are a competent Water Supply Pipe Installer)
Bathrooms and kitchens are where we would see most plumbing fixtures in a property, including toilets, sinks, showers, baths and even bidets! A qualified plumber can help with:
Repairs – to taps, pipework and fixtures
Replacements – from washers to baths, and everything in between
Installations – from one fixture to an entire bathroom suite
Low water pressure can cause a range of issues to plumbing systems and appliances, from boiler failure and cold showers to stalling dishwashers and washing machines. Potential causes can include leaks, damaged pipework or other issues within the property's water system.
A qualified plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and identify any potential plumbing causes. They can also advise when another specialist may be needed.
A qualified plumber can undertake a wide range of installation work throughout your property including:
Bathroom plumbing - installing or relocating pipework for toilets, basins, showers and baths
Pipework - fitting new hot and cold water pipes, as well as waste pipes for sanitary fixtures
Sanitaryware - installing toilets, sinks, baths, showers, bidets and other bathroom fixtures
Many plumbers can work on central heating systems. This can include repairs and servicing, adding radiators or flushing systems.
It is important if working on heating equipment such as combination boilers or unvented hot water systems they must have qualifications to demonstrate they can safely work on these systems. For example, if gas is used to heat the water, they must also hold an appropriate qualification and be on the Gas Safe Register for work on these types of equipment. There are similar requirements for other means of heating such as oil or heat pumps.
Whilst plumbers can carry out a wide range of work involving water systems, pipework and plumbing fixtures, there are some jobs that typically require a different specialist.
For repair, replacement or installation of gas appliances, for example cookers, gas fires or boilers, a Gas Safe registered engineer is required.
If there is an electrical problem relating to any element of your plumbing system, for example faulty electric showers, heating controls or wiring, a qualified electrician will be needed.
Specialist drainage contractors are often better equipped to handle problems affecting underground drains and sewer systems. This can include:
Blocked drains that cannot be cleared through routine plumbing work
Collapsed or damaged underground drainage pipes
Drain surveys and inspections using specialist cameras
Issues affecting shared drains or sewer connections
If the issue affects underground drains or the wider sewer network, a specialist drainage contractor may be the more appropriate professional to contact.
From replacing a washer to installing a completely new plumbing system, a qualified plumber can carry out the work safely and to a professional standard.
WaterSafe Register’s free online search facility can help you find competent and qualified plumbers, fast.
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