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Plumber Retrofitter Water Conservation

A plumbing retrofitter is a plumbing professional who evaluates existing plumbing in single-family homes, multi-family apartment units, and businesses to determine water usage and recommend appropriate modifications to plumbing systems to reduce the use of water.

The career outlook for a plumber retrofitter is excellent. They make on average $15-$22/ hour.

A plumbing retrofitter installs fixtures and appliances like low-flush toilets, faucet aerators, and showerheads, and may also perform more extensive replacement of plumbing and appliances to reduce water usage for cost and environmental reasons. Other retrofit techniques that involve more extensive intervention include modifying or replacing irrigation systems, water meters, and installing "gray" water systems that require extensive piping, pumps, or water tanks.

This green job not only reduces the amount of water used, but it also cuts down on the energy required for water treatment and heating. With supplies of potable water limited in some areas, using water efficiently is important to the health of many communities. Pluming retrofitters also reduce the burden on water treatment facilities, and implement strategies that result in cost savings to homeowners, landlords, and businesses.

A job as a plumber specializing in plumbing retrofitting is a good match for someone who enjoys working hands-on in home improvement and contracting projects. Requirements for the job include training in the plumbing trade, good manual dexterity, technical acumen, and familiarity with the different plumbing retrofitting solutions that can address water use issues.

To prepare for a job as a plumber, it's a good idea to take high-school and community college classes in technical math, shop, and other vocational-technical courses. To become a licensed plumber, you can work in an apprenticeship program that requires on-the-job training in plumbing and business skills, or you can attend a certified vocational school in your area. Local community and technical colleges typically offer plumber certification programs. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, and in some cases, a candidate must pass a certification exam in order to be licensed.