A gas plumber is a tradesperson who specializes in the installation and repair of gas plumbing and fittings, ranging from regulator valves to gas appliances like water heaters and stoves. Due to concerns about the safety of gas, the practice of gas plumbing is regulated by law in many regions of the world, and gas plumbers must complete an apprenticeship and demonstrate competency skills on an exam before they will be allowed to practice independently.
Many people associate plumbing specifically with water, but in fact plumbing is used to move a wide variety of fluids in addition to gases. Gas plumbers work with gases used for fuel and heat, such as propane and natural gas. They can install gas tanks or connections to gas mains, along with plumbing in a home which is designed to carry gas, and safety regulators and associated devices. Gas plumbers are also involved in the repair and maintenance of gas lines from those in a home to a large business which relies on gas for its operations.
A gas plumber may work for a municipality, conducting or supervising installations and safety inspections. He or she can also work for a gas company, or as an independent contractor. This job requires a very exacting and precise personality, because leaks in gas lines and gas appliances can be deadly in addition to destructive. Gas plumbers need to be familiar with a variety of fittings and safety procedures and they must be able to identify problems before they happen.
Because gas leaks are such a safety risk, many regions has gas plumbers who work for emergency services, responding along with firemen and emergency services personnel to the site of a suspected gas leak, or to a fire or explosion caused by gas. Gas companies may also provide 24 hour service for customers who develop problems with their gas lines, although customers may need to pay for these services.
Work for gas plumbers tends to be fairly steady. New homes being plumbed for gas require the services of a gas plumber, as do structures being retrofitted to accommodate gas, and once gas lines are installed, they need to be routinely maintained and repaired to reduce the risk of damage, injury, or death. Gas appliances also require maintenance and periodic replacement which can generate income for a gas plumber. If a gas plumber acquires a good reputation in the community, he or she should not lack for work.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a About Mechanics researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.