Are you wondering whether you need a plumber or heating engineer in your home or business? It certainly can be easy to get confused between the two, so in this article, we will explain the differences, to help you be certain you have found the best person for the job.
It’s worth noting at this point that tradespeople can often be both plumbers and heating engineers at the same time, but while each can overlap, the role comes with a different set of responsibilities, industry accreditations and necessary qualifications. So, before you let just anyone carry out work on your property, always check that they have the right experience and training for your own peace of mind.
Differences between a plumber and heating engineer
First let’s look at the role of a plumber. Their basic responsibilities include the following:
- Installation, maintenance and repair of pipework
- Installation and repair of plumbing and drainage systems (such as toilets and sinks) both in new properties and existing properties
- Unblocking and clearing drains and toilets
- Respond to emergency plumbing problems, such as a burst pipe or blocked toilet
- Fitting dishwashers and washing machines
With regard to qualifications, there are no formal certifications, although to be considered qualified, they must hold the Level 2 or 3 NVQ plumbing qualification. If the job is a complicated one, it’s a good idea to check that they have a good degree of experience and come highly recommended either through word of mouth, or on trusted online review sites.
A heating engineer can also work on gas appliances and the installation, repair and maintenance of heating systems. To do this they must be properly qualified and accredited. It is also a legal requirement that they are Gas Safe registered. They may well carry out tasks such as boiler installation, servicing and repairs, the design of HVAC systems or installing furnaces and heat pumps.
Many heating engineers progress from being a plumber. They usually take the NVQ level 3 qualification and obtain further qualifications which allow them to carry out electrical work on heating systems and servicing and maintaining of hot water systems.
Common issues that you might need a heating engineer or plumber for
With regard to needing a plumber, some of the most common jobs which we are asked to do in an emergency include, fixing leaky taps and frozen or burst pipes, clearing blocked drains and toilets and fixing common issues such as a running toilet. Some jobs require more urgent attention, others, for example a complete new bathroom installation, can be planned well in advance.
Common issues which mean that you need a qualified heating engineer might include a broken down boiler, faulty central heating system or suspected gas leak. Always stay on the safe side when it comes to gas appliances and never take the risk of choosing someone who isn’t listed on the Gas Safe Register.
Check Pricing & Availability
At Medway Plumbing and Heating, our qualified plumbers and heating engineers are available around the clock for those emergencies that you can’t predict. And we are also happy to plan a time to come and give you a free quote for jobs which aren’t quite so urgent.
We will always send the most appropriate specialist because we have someone available for every type of job. Call today to get any plumbing or heating problem fixed fast.