Plumbers and Pipefitters Plumbers and Pipefitters Plumbers and pipe fitters assemble, install, and repair pipe systems. Plumbers install and repair the water, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in homes and commercial buildings. They also install appliances and plumbing fixtures, such as bathtubs and sinks. Pipe fitters install and repair pressurized pipe systems that are used in manufacturing and in heating and cooling buildings.
Workers generally specialize in plumbing or pipe fitting.
Depending on the type of project, plumbers and pipe fitters use different materials and construction techniques. For example, pipe fitters sometimes use cast iron pipes and work in crews. Plumbers, in contrast, use copper, steel, or plastic pipe and work alone or with one other worker. Plumbers and pipe fitters, however, do have some common skills. They both must be able to follow instructions from supervisors as well as read and follow blueprints.