There are many differences between a plumber and a heating engineer, even though they both work in the same industry. The two professions have distinct roles that overlap in some ways but remain separate in others. This article will provide an overview of what plumbers and heating engineers do, where their skills overlap, and how to tell them apart when you need help with your home’s plumbing or heating systems.
What is a Plumber?
A professional plumber is in charge of fixing, installing and taking care of plumbing fixtures and piping systems used to distribute water throughout buildings. This can include pipefitting, repairing water heaters or boilers, repairing sewage systems, replacing bathroom fixtures such as toilets and sinks, unclogging drains, installing gas lines for stoves or ovens, ensuring proper pressure levels for shower heads or faucets, and more. Plumbers also play a role in inspecting buildings to ensure compliance with local building codes.
What is a Heating Engineer?
A heating engineer specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing central heating systems such as boilers or radiators and water heaters. A qualified Heating Engineer will be able to assess the efficiency of any type of existing heating system and recommend upgrades or replacements if necessary. They should also be knowledgeable about all boiler models—gas boilers being the most common—and be able to diagnose problems quickly. In addition to installation and repair services for these systems, Heating Engineers may be called upon to inspect homes for safety issues related to gas appliances or radiators with faulty wiring.
Where Do Their Skills Overlap?
Although plumbers specialize in pipefitting while Heating Engineers specialize in central heating systems such as boilers or radiators (as well as water heaters), there is some overlap between their skill sets. Both technicians are trained to understand how different components interact within a building’s infrastructure; however, each profession has its specialized focus when it comes time to fix things up. For example: if you have an issue with leaks from your water heater – it likely means you need assistance from either a plumber OR a Heating Engineer, depending on the root cause. If it’s related to pipes, you’d want a plumber, whereas if it has something to do with faulty wiring, you’ll want a Heating Engineer.
How Do I Tell Them Apart?
The easiest way to tell them apart is by asking what service they provide. A plumber will likely list off pipefitting services. In contrast, a Heating Engineer will likely list off installation/repair/maintenance services related to central heating systems such as boilers or radiators (as well as water heaters). It’s important to know who does what and who provides the best service possible, so always research your potential technicians beforehand.
