How to Learn Plumbing on the Job

Plumbing can be a great career if you like working with your hands. As you learn the trade and become proficient and timely in your work, you can start to do quite well. Once you have the necessary skills, you could work for a reputable company or even go into business for yourself. As a plumber, you will likely be responsible for installing or repairing everything from kitchen and bathroom piping to hot water heaters and swimming pools. Since plumbing is hands on, you will want to make the most out of on-the-job learning opportunities.

Things You'll Need

• Master plumber
• Pad
• Pen
• Digital camera

Instructions

How to Learn Plumbing on the Job

1. Go on jobs with more experienced plumbers. A great way to learn about plumbing while on the job is to work with a master plumber on a number of different jobs. By working with an experienced plumber you will quickly get hands-on experience and learn certain tricks of the trade that may not be taught to you in a classroom environment.

2. Observe the plumber while you are on the job. When working with pipes you have to be careful and precise so that you do not break anything and so that you do not leave any leaks. Pay attention to the type of tools the plumber uses for each job. It will be a good idea to have a notebook and pen with you the whole time you are on the job so that you can take notes. You may even want to use a digital camera so you can take pictures of certain jobs for further reference.

3. Ask questions. Take full advantage of your time on the plumbing job by asking any question that comes to mind. A big part of learning is through inquiry. If you there is something you are unsure about or do not understand, make sure to clarify it so that you do not make a costly mistake in the future.

4. Participate when you can. If the plumber is working on a project you have experience with, offer to help. This will allow the plumber the opportunity to observe your work and give you any advice or suggestions to help improve your skills.

5. Be willing to try new things. If the plumber asks you to help on a job you have no experience with, jump on board and join him. You can learn a great deal through actual hands-on experience. Make sure you follow his directions implicitly so you do not bust any pipes.

6. Accept correction. If you go on a job with an experienced plumber with a know-it-all attitude, chances are you are not going to learn much. If he critiques your methods, learn from it rather than becoming prideful and ignoring his advice. This would likely be to your detriment.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring all the tools you have on the job with you so you can be prepared to step in when asked.