However, since gas stoves use a connection to your home’s gas line for a fuel source, there can be chances where you might suspect a possible gas leak.
Though gas stoves are typically safe to use and won’t get damaged as easily, if you believe that your stove is leaking, you need to take action quickly. Natural gas is incredibly dangerous if it isn’t used safely, which makes gas leaks deadly if not found quickly. The gas is flammable and can cause an explosion if it isn’t lit under specific parameters.
The only issue is that it can be rather difficult to find out whether or not your gas stove is leaking and call a technician in time.
That’s why we’ve created an expert guide on how to check for a stove gas leak and how you can go about helping your technician fix your leak. While there may be ways to fix the issue yourself, it’s highly recommended that you call our team at Clover Contracting to get it repaired as soon as possible.
One of the ways you can check to see if you have a stove gas leak is to check what color the flames are. Natural gas is typically colorless and you won’t be able to tell where the gas is leaking from – or even if it is leaking. That’s where your stove can come in handy.
When your gas stove is working as it should be and your gas connections are all properly fitted and intact, your stove’s flames should be blue. On the other hand, a red or orange flame is a sign you have a leak since there’s a low chance that your house or stove is low on natural gas.
The odd red flash in your stove’s otherwise blue flame isn’t an issue, but if it stays a solid, consistent red or orange, you more than likely have a gas leak.
The most common way as to how to check for a gas leak on the stove in your home is if you smell a gas-like odor in certain rooms.
In order to make sure that home and business owners are aware of when they have a leak somewhere in the building, gas companies have since been adding mercaptan to the gas to make it easier. Without the addition, the natural gas is just as odorless as it is colorless, increasing its danger.
The mercaptan mixed into the natural gas piped into our homes adds a particularly nasty smell that many have said to smell like rotten eggs or sulfur. Since the stench would drastically stand out among the likely more pleasant smells of your home or the gas stove smells like gas when off, the building’s occupants are more than likely going to notice it and call the gas company or a technician to find the leak.
If you’re not quite willing to place your complete trust and evidence of a leak in your senses, there are a few good ways to check with items. One of the more classic ways to check for a gas leak from stove burner systems is to use a mixture of soap and water. Many people prefer to use a mix of 50% water to 50% liquid soap and pour that into a spray bottle
To check out where leaks might be, spray the solution over an area you suspect a leak might be in. If – after leaving the mixture there for some time – no bubbles form on your stove top, clean it off and try another area. However, if you do see bubbles start to form, that’s a positive sign that the leak is there. Call Clover Contracting or your gas company for help right away.
Another simple way to learn how to check a stove for a gas leak is to pay attention to any noises coming from your stove. If you’re finding that there’s an odd whistling sound whenever you get close to the stove, there’s a chance that there’s a gas leak. The whistling sound is often also a sign that your gas leak isn’t a small problem as well. Call a technician to get the issue solved as soon as possible
A more professional and guaranteed way to find out if you have a gas leak is to invest in a leak detector. With a good detector, move it around your stove or the gas range to check. If there is in fact a leak, your leak detector should set off an alarm and display a reading on a screen. This works especially well if you use another method to check and want to make sure that there is a leak.
There are many gas leak detectors that aren’t overly pricey as well, making this investment a great idea. It can be a highly reliable source of detecting where a leak can be found, whether it’s from your gas stove or somewhere further down in your home or business’ gas lines.
For further reliability, you can also get a recommendation from your gas company for a good leak detector. From there, all that’s needed is choosing a model that’s within a fair price range.
If you find a stove gas leak in your kitchen, it’s incredibly important to call a technician or your gas company as soon as you can. Natural gas is a dangerous substance if it isn’t under control and can cause all sorts of harm. While your gas stove is highly durable and more than likely won’t break or cause leaks frequently, it’s important to get its connections and your piping checked regularly to prevent any potential issues.
For both gas line repairs and home appliance maintenance, contact us at Clover Contracting for quick and reliable service.
]]>The perception of the plumbing industry is drastically changing. With the increasing demand for plumbers, more people are open to diving into careers. But what are the pros and cons of being a plumber? Understanding the plumbing career pros and cons is important as it helps you manage your expectations even at the early stages of the career.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of becoming a plumber, starting with the pros.
Most careers require a college education to start. But with the plumbing career, one can start as an apprentice and work towards getting the necessary work experience. Most plumbing companies accept students who have just completed high school. Another advantage of starting the plumbing career as an apprentice is the ability to earn as you gain work experience. This is not offered in most careers.
Starting a career without a college education means little to no student loan debt. Plumber training does not cost much and is offered in vocational schools or community colleges. And as we mentioned, the apprenticeship program is also an excellent way to kickstart your plumbing career. While other career paths may lead to an accumulation of college loan debts, you will be learning vital skills and earning on the job.
Most people think that all plumbers do is install, repair and maintain plumbing fixtures. But there is more to that in the plumbing journey. Plumbers can choose a different specialty by becoming a steamfitter, gas service technician, distribution manager, pipefitter, pipelayer, or even a project manager. Plumbers can also opt to specialize in different industries such as commercial plumbing, domestic plumbing and even working for government entities.
Remuneration is a major factor to consider before joining any career. The plumbing career guarantees high pay once qualified. Whether working for a plumbing company or an independent contractor, plumbers earn a decent salary, with the median salary of a plumber being $56,330 per year. According to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics, the highest 10% earned $98,990 while the lowest 10% earned $33,460. As you can see, advancing your plumbing career puts you in a better place to earn even more.
Plumbers are always in high demand. This is even expected to further increase given the high rates of retirees and the increase in construction activity. Also, there is a demand for renovation, repair, and maintenance of old plumbing systems.
Who wants to start a career and risk not having job security? Some people may worry that the plumbing career will be outrun by new technology. However, that is unlikely to happen anytime soon. Even with the invention of new plumbing technology and systems, only qualified plumbers can install, repair and maintain the systems. This is because plumbing requires manual skills that advanced technologies cannot accomplish.
The plumbing career offers excellent advancement opportunities. Plumbers can advance their skills and even reach master levels. The possibility of becoming a self-employed plumber is also something that most qualified plumbers look forward to.
A career with one routine can get boring, no matter how good the pay is. Plumbing jobs involve a lot of problem-solving and troubleshooting. This means new challenges every day. Also, plumbers get to travel a lot.
Plumbers spend a lot of time on their feet, bending, crawling, and carrying heavy equipment. While this helps them to stay active, the physical demands can take a toll on the body especially for those who have health issues.
The plumber training period is long. The apprentice program takes 4 to 5 years before one can become fully qualified, not to mention the additional plumbing examinations. Luckily, plumbers get to earn via an apprenticeship.
Just when you have called it for the day, a customer calls with an emergency that needs to be fixed. And because some plumbing issues require immediate intervention to prevent risks to human health and extensive damage, plumbers do not have much choice when such issues arise. Whether you are self-employed or working for a contractor, you may need to work late, during the holidays and even weekends.
Plumbers are exposed to different risks in their line of work. Talk of sparks, chemicals, falling objects, gases, and even loud noises. If poorly handled, these items can cause accidents or expose plumbers to hazards. For instance, plumbers have reported slips, hearing loss, eye injuries, severe reactions to inhaling mold, and even exposure to biohazard materials. As a plumber, you will be required to wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, respiratory masks, and earplugs.
The plumbing career lacks predictability. While this removes mundane routines and makes it interesting, it can put a plumber under immense pressure. For instance, when a client calls in with a certain problem, they expect that the plumber can fix it in a short period. When this fails, dissatisfaction is often evident. Plumbers work under tight deadlines. And in some instances, some situations can be life-threatening or even cause extensive damage if not quickly solved. It is important to know how to handle such pressure, stay composed, and reassure clients that the problem will be solved.
The information on plumber pros and cons is vital before fully diving into the career. Every career has pros and cons. However, knowing how to manage being a plumber pros and cons can help one excel in the field, and it all starts with understanding them.
]]>Luckily, starting a plumbing career does not have to be expensive. Wondering how to start a career in plumbing? Keep scrolling as we explore the qualifications required and why the career path is one that you may not want to pass.
While plumbing career requirements vary by state, there are some basic steps to starting your career path. Here’s how to start a career in plumbing.
High school education offers a strong foundation in science, math, and computers. While plumbing career opportunities are great, the path has become very competitive. As such, your high school ATC score may be considered when obtaining a plumbing apprenticeship. So, if you are considering a career in plumbing, ensure that your performance in high school is also stellar.
While a college degree is not a prerequisite when starting your plumbing career, completing plumbing coursework at a vocational or technical college will benefit your career. For instance, plumbing apprentices are known to be quite competitive. To ensure you remain competitive and do not lose out on apprentice opportunities, undertake and complete the required coursework. Vocational plumbing courses can also help you get an apprenticeship easily, especially if your college helps match students with plumbing companies or unions.
The importance of an apprenticeship program when starting your plumbing career cannot be stressed enough. Not only do students get on-the-job learning but also earn while at it. But do you need training to start as a plumbing apprentice? No.
However, completing plumbing coursework can help you get an apprenticeship easily. Apprenticeship programs are popularly known for offering the most comprehensive training on the plumbing path. The 4- to 5-year period can seem long. However, once plumbing students complete the program, they become a journeyman and they can work unsupervised.
Apprenticeship programs can be difficult to get. The best way to land one is via a local plumber’s union. And as we mentioned, good college grades can put you in a better place to get one. Even with the exceptional plumbing training, apprenticeships do not offer classwork coursework. As such, apprentices are required to take accredited plumbing courses and complete the required hours.
A plumbing license is mandatory in most states. While the plumbing licensing requirements vary by state, plumbers are required to meet a minimum number of working hours and pass a plumbing examination. Once the examination is passed, the apprentice becomes a licensed journeyman plumber and can work independently. Continuing with the plumber education and taking additional exams as per state laws can earn one a master plumber position. Alternatively, additional certifications such as inspection testing and energy efficiency can give a plumber a competitive advantage in plumbing career opportunities.
The journey to becoming a qualified plumber is not grueling. But why should you consider a plumbing career and not any other career path?
The plumber apprentice program is one of the best plumbing learning avenues. While there are technical programs where you can learn how to be a plumber, you will not earn while learning. Also, the quality of education that you get as an apprentice cannot be compared to the level of education at universities or colleges.
You may earn less as a plumber apprentice; however, once qualified, you enjoy all the perks of the plumbing career. According to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics, the median pay for plumbers was estimated at $56,330 per year as of 2020 with the lowest 10% earning below $33,460 while the highest 10% earned over $98,990. As you can see, the earning capabilities are promising.
As a plumber, your salary level will also depend on the plumbing industry chosen. As of May 2020, plumbers in the manufacturing industry earned approximately $58,580 while those working for the government earned $58,260. Those working in the heavy and civil engineering construction industry earned $56,840 while those working for plumbing, heating, and air conditioning contractors earned $55,620.
The demand for plumbers surpasses the supply. Even with technological advancements, plumbers will be needed to install and maintain all plumbing fixtures. The employment of plumbers, steamfitters, and pipefitters is also expected to grow by 5% from 2020-2030. Most of the growth is expected as the need for plumbers to replace retired workers grows. This is a great career option if you are cautious about starting a career that does not have job security.
If you are worried about being stuck in the same plumbing position for years, getting additional education and certifications will lead to career advancement. Whether you start your plumbing career as an apprentice, you can advance it to the level of a senior plumber or even start your company.
Whichever line you specialize in, you will solve different problems every day. This reduces the monotony of doing the same task over and over again. Also, you get to interact with different people and travel to different destinations.
The initial plumbing training involves installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems. However, you can take a more specialized path by becoming a steamfitter, pipefitter, gas service technician, distribution manager, pipelayer, or even project manager. Also, you are not limited to one industry, hence you can explore the residential, commercial, or even government sectors.
A plumbing career offers exceptional opportunities. The fair wage, job security, and different plumbing job varieties are just some of the reasons why you should pursue a plumbing career. Starting as an apprentice offers you on-the-job training as you earn. However, ensure to also get the required education and licensing.
]]>Plumbers install, repair, and maintain plumbing fixtures in homes and businesses. While the plumbing career is very popular, one of the most common questions people who are curious about the profession ask is: how much does a plumber make? Knowing how much a plumber earns can help you plan your career and avoid getting short-changed.
Before we dive into the salary range for plumbers, let’s discuss some of the responsibilities of plumbers.
The plumbing career is quite versatile. As a plumber, you will be required to install, maintain and repair all plumbing fixtures including water and gas supply lines, sanitation units, appliances, heating systems, and other associated fixtures. This can either be in the industrial, commercial, and residential settings. Plumbers also inspect plumbing systems, design, perform diagnostics and ensure compliance with regulatory codes. They also handle customer queries and prepare cost estimates.
How much a plumber makes depends on various factors, including qualifications and work experience. The area a plumber specializes in also makes a difference. Specializing in more difficult and dangerous plumbing fields can fetch you a higher salary than a plumber who specializes in basic plumbing duties.
What about employers? Different employers have varying salary ranges. Working for large corporations may earn you more than what you would make working for a start-up company.
How much do plumbers make a year? According to the U.S Bureau of Statistics, the median pay for plumbers is $56,330 per year and $27.08 per hour as of May 2020. The highest 10% earned over $98,990, while the lowest 10% earned $33,460. The salary range varies across industries. For instance, the average pay for plumbers in manufacturing was $58,580 per year (as of May 2020), while those who worked in government made $58,260 per year. Plumbers who worked for heating, plumbing, and air conditioning sectors earned $56,840 while those in the heavy and civil engineering construction sectors earned $56,840.
If you are just starting your plumbing career, one of the questions that you may have is: how much does an apprentice plumber make? An apprenticeship is the best way to jumpstart your plumbing career. It allows you to earn money while also getting the necessary knowledge and skills.
Apprentices earn approximately half of what fully trained plumbers get. However, given the experience that apprentices receive, one should not be too focused on the salary. Rather, they should be focused on getting the necessary experience and upskilling.
An apprenticeship provides a learning opportunity for entry-level plumbers. Given the lack of experience, an employer invests a lot of time and resources in the training. This training should help an apprentice get a plumbing education and advance their skills in the trade.
Once an apprentice masters the skills of the trade, they can advance to become a journeyman. A journeyman plumber is a plumber who is fully skilled and can work in residential and commercial settings. Journeyman plumbers are regarded as experts in all plumbing fixtures such as gas lines and drainage systems. They can also supervise apprentice plumbers.
How much does a journeyman plumber make? Since they are fully skilled plumbers, journeyman plumbers earn the average plumber salary based on the industry and line of work. Master plumbers, however, have the highest earning potential, with some earning close to $100,000 per year. While a plumber and master plumber may have similar work proficiency, the latter has more certification and licensing. Also, a master plumber has more experience in business management while journeyman plumbers focus on the plumbing aspects of their work.
The financial aspect of any career cannot be ignored. For some, earning while studying may not be preferred. For others, however, earning while learning on the job is the only option to getting some income.
Luckily, if you want to become a plumber, a pre-apprenticeship associate’s degree program is a great way to start your career. This is offered in community or technical colleges. The training will provide vital knowledge and skills that will help you work under a licensed plumber.
Once you complete the pre-apprenticeship program, you will be required to complete an apprentice program, which can last 4 to 5 years. As we mentioned, you will receive classroom instruction for the said period while still earning on the job. Once completed, you can become a journeyman plumber.
How will becoming a licensed plumber benefit you? If you are doubting the importance of getting a plumbing license, you need to check out statistics that answer the question, ‘how much does a licensed plumber make?’
You may be surprised to know that you can get double what you earn as an apprentice by getting the required licensing. While this varies in most communities and states, you will be required to get 2 to 5 years of plumbing experience. Also, passing a general plumbing trade examination will be required. Different states have varying plumber licenses. With additional training and experience, you can become a master plumber.
A plumbing career offers great remuneration. An apprenticeship is a great way to start your plumbing career. Although apprentices earn approximately half of what qualified plumbers get, they get to advance their plumbing skills while still earning. However, extra certification and licensing will earn you an even higher salary.
]]>If you are considering pursuing a plumbing career, getting accurate plumbing career information is vital. You need to keep yourself informed on training, job opportunities, and the different plumbing career pathways that are available.
If you have already identified that you want to pursue plumbing as a career, you need to determine how you can become one.
Becoming a successful plumber requires training and study. The most common and easiest way to start a plumbing career is via an apprenticeship program. Usually, this takes 4-5 years to receive technical education. Once plumbers complete the apprenticeship, they become journeymen.
Many businesses and unions mandate that apprentices receive a minimum amount of training, which differs in various locations. Apprentices learn applied physics, math, and even chemistry. And most importantly, they get practical plumbing training with an experienced plumber.
Plumbers can only work independently if they receive a plumbing license. Earning this mostly requires two-five years of practical experience. The plumbers are also required to pass a test on the technical know-how of the plumbing job.
Not many careers offer this option. But with a plumbing career, starting your training as an apprentice ensures that you don’t spend thousands of dollars on college education. Attending a community college or vocational school is also an excellent plan for those who prefer to start with education. Once you graduate from an apprenticeship, you can work independently. And if you get a plumbing license, you can run your own plumbing company.
At some point, every college student has worried about how long it will take to get a job once they graduate. This is not the case for plumbers. Every home, office, or facility must have plumbing fixtures that operate efficiently. And when these break down, a plumber must come in to fix the problem. Also, as more buildings are constructed, the demand for plumbers increases. According to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics, the plumbing career outlook is quite promising. The employment of plumbers is projected to increase further by 5% from 2020- 2030. This means that if you hold the right plumbing qualification, you get to enjoy a career with job security.
There is a common belief that all plumbers do is unclog pipes and fix toilets. However, the plumbing career is quite versatile. As a plumber, you can specialize as a pipelayer, pipefitter, commercial plumbing, industrial plumbing, residential plumbing, or even a plumbing sales specialist, among other positions. If you are worried about job monotony and getting burned out working on the same thing every day, the plumbing career prospects are different.
As we mentioned, you can start your plumbing career as an apprentice and work your way to becoming a journeyman. You can even work your way to the master level and enjoy great remuneration, not to mention the opportunity to work on complex, large-scale, and innovative projects.
Once you become a professional plumber, you can opt to go into business and start your plumbing company. Owning your business not only gives you the right avenue to grow even further into your career but also the independence that most employees yearn for.
While this is the least of your concerns when starting your career, you will forget about plumbing bills once you become a qualified plumber. It may seem like a small issue, but plumbing bills can be high.
Plumbing career pathways are marred by so many myths. And these deter young persons from pursuing the career. Let’s demystify some myths about the plumbing career.
Young people want to experience new technology and use it to improve lives. Plumbing technology has evolved in immeasurable ways. Nowadays, people want efficient systems, digital-controlled features, eco-friendly options, and even customized plumbing solutions.
There are a variety of interesting plumbing product innovations such as tankless water heaters, touchless fixtures, electric flood detectors, and even leak alerts. If you want a career that can challenge you technologically, why not dive into the plumbing career and partake in the innovations?
Even with technological innovations, plumbing fixtures can only be installed and maintained by qualified plumbers. And as we mentioned, there will be more job openings in the next few years, not to mention limitless plumbing career pathways. This does not mean that the career is not competitive. You still have to get the right qualifications and perform a stellar job on every project.
Carrying out plumbing duties without a license is an industry violation. You need to fulfill plumbing qualifications by passing a plumbing exam. However, starting a plumbing career with an apprenticeship is a clever way to earn as you get relevant and supervised training.
Just like any other career path, you need other skills to excel in your plumbing career. For instance, soft skills such as customer service and teamwork skills can catapult your career. In the plumbing field, you can find yourself working with HVAC technicians, carpenters, and even electricians, hence the need for teamwork. And since you may deal with clients in your career path, visiting their homes and offices, you need to have great communication skills.
Is plumbing a good career? Yes. The career offers interesting opportunities. While you must be fully trained to practice as an independent plumber, starting the career as an apprentice offers learning opportunities as you earn.
The article is written in collaboration with Build Media Group.
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