12 Things You Didn't Know About Plumbers

Plumbers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of plumbing systems in homes, buildings, and other structures. While many people are familiar with the basics of what plumbers do, there are some interesting facts and details about the profession that may be less well-known. In this article, we will explore some of these lesser-known aspects of the plumbing profession.

1. Plumbers have been around for thousands of years: The concept of plumbing dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who built intricate systems of pipes and aqueducts to bring fresh water into their cities.

2. There are different types of plumbers: While most people think of residential plumbers when they think of the profession, there are many different types of plumbers. Some specialize in industrial plumbing, while others focus on commercial or municipal plumbing. Some even specialize in niche areas such as medical gas systems.

3. Plumbers are in high demand: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for plumbers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, with a projected 16% increase in employment from 2016 to 2026.

4. Plumbers need to be licensed: In most states, plumbers are required to be licensed, which involves passing a written exam and demonstrating practical skills in the field. This ensures that plumbers are knowledgeable and skilled enough to do their jobs safely and effectively.

5. Plumbing work is physically demanding: Plumbing work often involves heavy lifting, awkward positions, and exposure to harsh chemicals and materials. Plumbers need to be physically fit and able to perform their work safely.

6. Plumbers need good communication skills: Plumbing work often involves interacting with customers, other tradespeople, and building owners or managers. Good communication skills are essential for explaining technical issues, providing estimates, and coordinating with other professionals on the job site.

7. Plumbers need to be problem solvers: Plumbing problems can be complex, requiring careful diagnosis and creative solutions. Plumbers need to be able to think on their feet and come up with effective solutions to a wide range of issues.

8. Plumbers can work in many different environments: Plumbing work can take place in a wide range of settings, from homes and office buildings to industrial facilities and outdoor sites.

9. Plumbers use a wide range of tools and equipment: From basic hand tools like wrenches and pliers to sophisticated diagnostic tools and computer software, plumbers rely on a wide range of tools and equipment to do their jobs.

10. Plumbing work can be dangerous: Plumbing work often involves working with electricity, gas lines, and other potentially hazardous materials. Plumbers need to take strict safety precautions to avoid injury or damage to property.

11. Plumbers need to keep up with the latest technologies and techniques: Plumbing technology is constantly evolving, and plumbers need to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements to provide the best possible service to their customers.

12. Plumbers play an important role in public health: Plumbing systems are essential for providing safe drinking water and removing waste from homes and buildings. Plumbers play a critical role in ensuring that these systems are operating safely and efficiently, which helps to protect public health.


While many people are familiar with the basic tasks of plumbers, such as fixing leaky pipes and unclogging drains, there is much more to the profession than meets the eye. Plumbers are highly skilled tradespeople who play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of plumbing systems in a wide range of settings. They need to be physically fit, good communicators, creative problem solvers, and adept at using a wide range of tools and equipment. With the demand for plumbers projected to grow in the coming years, it is clear that this profession will continue to play an important role in maintaining public health and safety. Whether working in homes, businesses, or industrial settings, plumbers are the unsung heroes of our plumbing systems, ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Furthermore, it is important to note that plumbers can specialize in various areas, which allows them to develop a deeper knowledge and expertise in a specific field. For example, some plumbers may focus on working with medical gas systems, while others may specialize in heating and cooling systems. This diversity in the field of plumbing allows for a greater range of services and expertise, which is important for meeting the needs of a wide range of customers.

In addition to their technical skills, plumbers also need to possess strong interpersonal skills. This is because they often work with a variety of people, including homeowners, contractors, and other tradespeople. Plumbers need to be able to explain technical issues to non-experts and work collaboratively with other professionals on the job site. They also need to be able to manage their time effectively and communicate clearly with customers about costs, timelines, and expectations.

Finally, it is worth noting that plumbing is not just about fixing things that are broken. In fact, many plumbers spend a significant amount of time working on new construction projects, installing plumbing systems in homes and buildings that are being built from scratch. This requires a different set of skills and knowledge, as plumbers need to work closely with architects, contractors, and other tradespeople to ensure that the plumbing system is integrated seamlessly into the overall design of the building.


In conclusion, while there is a lot that is commonly known about the work of plumbers, there are also many interesting and lesser-known facts about this important profession. From the long history of plumbing to the diversity of specialization areas within the field, plumbers are skilled tradespeople who play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of plumbing systems in a wide range of settings. If you are in need of plumbing services, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional who has the technical and interpersonal skills needed to do the job right.