How to Be Plumbing Handyman - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 29, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The plumbing of a home is a system of pipes, fittings, and fixtures that provide water and gas to the structure. When these components are not properly installed or maintained, it can lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. In order to avoid these issues, it is critical to ensure that your plumbing is in good condition by engaging the services of a professional plumber or a handyman.

A professional plumber will have the knowledge, experience, and tools to properly diagnose and repair plumbing problems, while a handyman may not have the same level of expertise but can provide basic repairs at an affordable rate. regular maintenance of the plumbing system can help to identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. Regular maintenance also helps to keep utility bills low and ensure the safety and longevity of the system.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Many employers require a high school diploma or GED in order to become a plumbing handyman.
Get a plumbing apprenticeship. You may be able to find an apprenticeship through the local union, a plumbing school, or a plumbing company.
Complete your apprenticeship. A typical apprenticeship will last three to five years and will include classroom and on-the-job training.
Obtain a state license. In most states, you must have a license in order to work as a plumber. You may need to take an exam in order to get your license.
Take additional courses. Many plumbing companies offer courses in the latest techniques and technology. Taking courses can help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the plumbing field.
Join professional organizations. Joining professional organizations such as the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NAPHCC) can help you network with other plumbers and stay up-to-date on industry developments.
Consider getting certified as a master plumber. Many states require master plumbers to have additional training and experience beyond that of a regular plumber.
Obtain insurance and bonding. Many states require plumbers to be bonded and insured in order to work. This is important in order to protect yourself and your customers from any potential liability issues.
Advertise your services. Put together a website and create flyers or postcards to advertise your services. You may also want to consider running online ads or using social media to reach potential customers.

Staying ahead and qualified in plumbing requires staying up to date on the latest trends and techniques. A handyman should take the initiative to attend workshops and seminars, read trade publications, and network with other professionals. By doing so, they will be able to gain valuable knowledge and experience to keep their skills sharp and their business ahead of the curve.

staying certified demonstrates both professional and technical expertise, which can attract new customers and keep existing customers satisfied. Finally, by staying informed on local, state, and federal regulations, a handyman can ensure that their work meets the highest standards of safety and quality. With the right combination of knowledge and skills, a plumbing handyman can stay ahead and qualified in their field.

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Job Description

Unclog drains
Replace and install faucets
Repair and replace toilets
Install garbage disposals
Repair and replace water heaters
Install and repair water lines
Install and repair gas lines
Repair and replace sump pumps
Repair pipes and fittings
Install new fixtures

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of basic plumbing tools and equipment
Ability to install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems
Knowledge of local plumbing codes and regulations
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and building plans
Ability to identify and troubleshoot plumbing problems
Knowledge of proper safety procedures
Ability to use power tools such as saws, drills, pipe cutters, etc.
Excellent customer service and communication skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Good problem-solving and analytical skills

Having a good knowledge of plumbing is essential for any handyman. Without it, it would be impossible to carry out even the simplest of tasks. A plumbing handyman must understand the importance of safety, know the basics of plumbing and the tools needed to do the job.

They must also understand the different types of pipes, valves and fittings and how to properly install them. Knowing the correct way to shut off the water supply is an important skill as well. Being able to troubleshoot and repair common plumbing issues such as clogs and leaks is also a must.

Finally, being able to properly diagnose and repair complex plumbing problems requires knowledge of plumbing codes, as well as experience and good judgment. All these skills, combined with a keen eye for detail, is what makes a plumbing handyman a valuable asset to any home or business.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in plumbing?
How comfortable are you with using a variety of hand tools?
What safety precautions do you take when performing plumbing work?
How do you troubleshoot plumbing problems?
Are you familiar with current plumbing codes and regulations?
Have you ever had to work on a plumbing emergency?
Are you familiar with the different types of plumbing materials and supplies?
What do you believe is the most important quality a plumbing handyman should possess?
What methods do you use to ensure that your work is up to code?
How do you keep up with the latest trends in plumbing technology?

Common Tools in Industry

Plunger. A tool used to unclog blocked toilets. (eg: Clearing a clogged toilet)
Pipe Wrench. A tool used to tighten or loosen pipes or fixtures. (eg: Connecting new pipes to existing plumbing)
Slip Joint Pliers. A tool used to grip, turn and hold nuts, bolts, and pipe fittings. (eg: Removing damaged pipes)
Adjustable Wrench. A tool used to grip and turn nuts and bolts of various sizes. (eg: Tightening a faucet)
Basin Wrench. A tool used to access hard to reach nuts and bolts in tight spaces. (eg: Installing a shower head)
Screwdriver. A tool used to drive screws into materials. (eg: Securing a sink drain)
Hammer. A tool used to drive nails into materials. (eg: Installing a bathroom vanity)
Saw. A tool used to cut through materials. (eg: Cutting PVC pipe)
Tape Measure. A tool used to measure distances accurately. (eg: Measuring for a new sink)
Level. A tool used to check if a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical. (eg: Leveling a wall before tiling)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
National Association of Water Companies (NAWC)
Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVACR Technicians Local Unions
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
American Welding Society (AWS)

We also have Home Repair Handyman, Multi-Skilled Handyman, and Heavy Duty Handyman jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Pipefitting. A skilled trade involving the installation and maintenance of pipes in residential and commercial buildings.
Plumbing Fixtures. Devices used to move or store water in a plumbing system, such as toilets, showers, faucets, and sinks.
Water Heater. A device that heats water for household use.
Drain Cleaning. The process of clearing clogs and blockages in drains and pipes.
Leak Detection. The process of locating and repairing leaks in pipes and plumbing systems.
Water Supply. A system of pipes and pumps that deliver fresh water to homes, businesses, and other areas.
Sewer Repair. The process of repairing broken or damaged sewer lines and pipes.
Pipe Insulation. Materials used to insulate pipes against cold temperatures or prevent condensation.
Gas Fitting. The installation and maintenance of pipes and fittings that are used to move natural gas from one point to another.
Sump Pump. A device used to remove excess water from an area, usually with a hose connected to a drain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of plumbing services does a Handyman provide?

A Handyman typically provides basic plumbing services such as pipe repair, installation of fixtures and appliances, replacing toilets and sinks, and unclogging drains.

How much does a Handyman charge for plumbing services?

Handyman rates for plumbing services vary depending on the type of job and location, but generally range from $50-$100 per hour.

What tools does a Handyman need for plumbing jobs?

A Handyman needs a variety of tools for plumbing jobs, including a wrench, pliers, screwdriver, pipe cutter, plunge router, and auger.

What safety precautions should be taken when working with plumbing?

When working with plumbing, it is important to take safety precautions such as wearing protective gear, turning off the water supply before beginning any repairs, and using a bucket to catch any leaking water.

Does a Handyman need a license to perform plumbing services?

Licensing requirements vary by state, but in most cases, a Handyman does not need a license to perform basic plumbing services. However, they may need to obtain a permit to do certain tasks such as installing gas lines.