The costs for common plumbing issues are determined based on parts, labor, and expertise level. Read our guide to find out how much you should budget.
Understanding the Differences Between a Pipefitter and a Plumber
Is the perfect person a plumber or a pipefitter?
Photo: vitranc / iStock / Getty Images
Photo: vitranc / iStock / Getty Images
Highlights
Plumbers and pipefitters are similar, but they work in different environments.
Plumbers focus on water and waste systems.
Pipefitters work on high-pressure pipes in industrial and commercial settings.
If you’re having work done on your home plumbing system, you’ll likely hire a plumber.
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Before you hire someone to work on your plumbing, you should be sure that they have the proper training and knowledge to complete the work. You may be wondering what the difference is between pipefitters and plumbers, so you know who to hire. The short answer is that plumbers focus on water and waste transportation systems, while pipefitters work with high-pressure pipes that carry other substances like gas or chemicals. Let’s take a closer look, so when the time comes, you know who to hire.
| Role | Plumber | Pipefitter |
|---|---|---|
| Works in residential and commercial buildings | x | |
| Focuses on water and waste systems | x | |
| Has specialized training to handle high-pressure pipes | x | |
| Works on pipes that carry chemicals, acids, and other substances | x | |
| Focuses on industrial and commercial buildings | x | |
| Requires a year of trade school and an apprenticeship | x | x |
What Is a Pipefitter?
Pipefitting is a specialized profession focused on high-pressure piping systems found in industrial and commercial buildings, plants, and factories. Pipefitters are trained to work on pipes that transport gases, steam, acids, and chemicals. The pipe systems may also generate electricity and heat. As part of their job, they may do some or all of the following:
Know and follow building codes at the national, state, and local levels
Maintain and repair high-pressure pipes
Install piping systems
Understand various piping materials and their appropriate applications
Weld pipe components together
What Is a Plumber?
Plumbers work in residential homes and commercial buildings and deal with the pipes and systems that transport water and waste. They are the people to call when your toilet springs a leak, you need to move the plumbing for a bathroom or kitchen remodel, or you need to install a washing machine or water heater. They can also install gas lines if they hold the proper licensing and insurance. A plumber’s responsibilities include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
Conducting maintenance on residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Installing appliances that use water, such as a toilet, washing machine, refrigerator, and dishwasher
Replacing or repairing broken pipes and fixtures
Unclogging drainage systems and pipes
Installing rough-in plumbing for new construction and renovation projects
Who Should I Hire for My Project?
Training requirements for pipefitters and plumbers are similar, with both professions starting their training in a trade school and then working as apprentices under a master plumber. That said, however, the person you hire should be familiar with residential plumbing systems and well-versed in conducting maintenance, repairs, and installation, which will likely be a plumber. When it’s time to hire a local plumber, it’s important to ask if they have experience and check their reviews.
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