Plumber or heating and ventilating engineer - overview

What does a plumber or heating and ventilating engineer do?

A role in plumbing or heating and ventilating usually means you’ll get to work on different projects in a variety of locations. You might fit and service heating or water systems, drainage networks and air conditioning units in homes, factories, schools, hospitals and on construction sites.

You’ll use your technical knowledge of buildings and construction together with your mathematical skills to solve problems, estimate costs for jobs and find and fix faults. You’ll enjoy working with people and can be calm under pressure responding to emergencies like floods or boiler breakdowns.

Your working environment might be indoors or outside and will involve heights and cramped spaces.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

• Installing central heating and ventilation systems and pipework in homes
• Cleaning old ventilation systems
• Following safety regulations
• Repairing and maintaining existing heating and ventilation equipment
• Fitting control panels so that customers can adjust their heating
• Measuring and cutting metals using hand and machine tools
• Testing installations for leaks and faults
• Advising clients on their energy and money-saving options

FAQs

How much can you earn as a plumber or heating and ventilating engineer?

The average salary for a plumber or heating and ventilating engineer in the UK is £35,360. Graduates start at around £20,500.

Does a plumber or heating and ventilating engineer role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

Plumbers and heating and ventilating engineers spend a lot of time traveling to various locations responding to call-outs and emergencies. Travelling overseas for work is rare.

Can you work from home as a plumber or heating and ventilating engineer?

Plumbers and heating and ventilating engineers work predominately on-site at a client’s home or business.