The Pros and Cons of Being a Plumber

One of the top choices for those who wish to pursue a career in the skilled trades is becoming a plumber. But is plumbing a good career choice? 

There are incredible job opportunities in this industry, but that doesn’t mean it’s a perfect fit for absolutely everyone. If you’re considering a career in plumbing, it’s good to have a clear understanding of the job before picking up a wrench.

Keep scrolling to learn the pros and cons of being a plumber! 

The Benefits of Being a Plumber

✔️ Excellent Job Outlook and Security

From now until 2031 there are expected to be around 2,400 more plumbing jobs available than people to take them up in Canada—becoming a plumber is a pipeline to job security. 

As long as people need running water and working drainage systems, skilled plumbers will be in demand. This is especially true in regions where extreme weather conditions often cause plumbing emergencies like frozen or burst pipes.

So, is plumbing a good career? In terms of job security, it’s a slam dunk! 

✔️ High Earning Potential

Money can be a huge factor when it comes to choosing a career path. Lucky for you, plumbing is one of the most highly-paid trades. 

How much do plumbers get paid? Depending on their qualifications, plumbers have the potential to earn upwards of $102,000 annually in Canada. A master plumber with their own plumbing business has even greater earning potential (along with plenty of other perks). 

🛠️ Read more: 25 Hands-On Jobs That Pay Well

✔️ Having Variety in Your Work

One of the biggest benefits of being a plumber is that you’ll never be bored. 

Whether you choose to work primarily in construction or focus on residential maintenance and repairs, you can expect your daily routine to be dynamic. Plumbers are needed everywhere, meaning you can chart your own path! 

✔️ Potential to Become Your Own Boss

One of the best benefits of being a plumber is the potential to be your own boss. Many experienced plumbers are self-employed because it allows them to set their schedule and choose which jobs they want to work. 

Starting your own plumbing business can be the perfect choice if you like the idea of a fulfilling and self-directed career. Plus, it can be very lucrative (the Canadian plumbing industry currently has a market size of $19.9 billion). Think big and you’ll be rewarded!

🛠️Read more: How to Start a Construction Business

✔️ Little Student Loan Debt

When speaking to the pros and cons of being a plumber, not needing to pay for four or more years of post-secondary education is also a huge plus. 

Most plumbers start with a pre-apprenticeship program, then complete a paid plumbing apprenticeship through which they hone their skills. The Canadian government also offers major grants and deduction programs that can help offset training costs. 

✔️ Getting to Help People!

Plumbers play a huge role in maintaining essential infrastructure and ensuring the health and safety of communities. Their work keeps water flowing smoothly, prevents potential hazards, and contributes to the overall well-being of individuals and businesses. 

The sense of accomplishment that comes with making a tangible difference can be a significant source of job satisfaction. If you like the sound of helping people with your work, committing to maintaining plumbing systems and standards can be a great choice!

Cons of Becoming a Plumber

✖️ Demanding Manual Labour

Like many construction trades, plumbing involves its fair share of physically demanding work that can be challenging in more ways than one. 

That’s why being in good health is usually one of the requirements for becoming a plumber; you’ll likely need to contort your body into cramped spaces or carry heavy equipment and materials at some point. Staying active and fit is just part of being a licensed plumber!

✖️ Working in Unpleasant Conditions

Let’s address the obvious—is plumbing a good career if you’re easily grossed out? 

Considering plumbers often have to work in stinky, dirty, or cramped spaces while repairing sewer lines or unclogging toilets, the answer is probably not. The good news is proper protective gear can help block odours and prevent exposure to germs or toxins. 

✖️ Unpredictable Work Schedules

Plumbers who do home service repairs may need to be on call nights or weekends—plumbing emergencies can happen at any time. Unexpected overtime is also common. All this can disrupt your personal time, so you need strong time management skills and flexibility to maintain a work-life balance. Don’t worry, it’s not impossible!

✖️ Risk of Injuries

As with any hands-on occupation, working as a plumber can put you at risk of injuries such as back strain from heavy lifting, slips, or falls as well as cuts and abrasions. In saying that, proper safety training, equipment, and ergonomic practices can minimize these risks! 

Get the Most Out of Your Plumbing Career with Pre-Apprenticeship Training

The pros and cons of being a plumber paint a compelling picture. From extensive opportunities in the job market to lucrative earning potential, and doing work that actually matters, we’d say this field is definitely a good career option.

You might be wondering how to get into plumbing, and the answer is simple. Kickstart your plumbing trade career at Skilled Trades College in Ontario. Our pre-apprenticeship programs are designed to get you apprenticeship-ready in as little as 12 weeks. Thanks to our 80:20 ratio of hands-on-to-classroom learning, you’ll graduate with the skills you need to take the next step toward a plumbing job.

So, is plumbing a good career for you? Contact us today to learn more!

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