Best way to learn? Advice?

[Ibraheem]

Hi there guys here is a quick question to those who have been in the plumbing and gas industry with years of experience.

How did you guys learn your trade and become confident to do it on your own?

I am asking this question because i really do want to become a good plumber and heating engineer. Im only 19 and i have done my theory side in plumbing and gas. Also i worked for last 2 years as a work experience with different plumbers. But all they made me do is shadow them and just pass them tools here and there and not given me a chance to do much work on practical side?

is there any advice you can give me thanks

 

[AMGasServices]

Usually by asking the trainer to move out of the way and letting you have a go.

 

[king of pipes]

The only way to learn the practical skills is by actually doing the job there is so much to take in understanding how systems work and repairing them takes years , its not all about plumbing and heating skills either you will need to have carpentry, building , tiling , and basic electrical skills to , i think another important thing is communication be friendly treat your customers with respect and work cleanly invest in dust sheets , a quality Hoover and always clean up after yourself don't be afraid to ask you will make mistakes and have the odd mishap but that is how you learn and become a better tradesman. Best of luck Kop

 

[Deleted member 32524]

Time and getting your hands dirty. Readimg installation manuals. Making the mistakes we have all made and learn from them. I am still learning and do not think I or anyone will ever know it all. Always work safe and to the best of your ability. Do not let people down. Charge the going rate.

 

[Last Plumber]

As above. I’ve been at it over 30 years now and I’m still learning.
One thing I always recommend is to get hold of an old Combi and strip it. Strip the parts too. That will give you food for thought and more questions you need answered.

 

[Rob Foster]

Hi there guys here is a quick question to those who have been in the plumbing and gas industry with years of experience.

How did you guys learn your trade and become confident to do it on your own?

I am asking this question because i really do want to become a good plumber and heating engineer. Im only 19 and i have done my theory side in plumbing and gas. Also i worked for last 2 years as a work experience with different plumbers. But all they made me do is shadow them and just pass them tools here and there and not given me a chance to do much work on practical side?

is there any advice you can give me thanks

Get yourself a driving licence, get yourself a van, start doing small jobs, get things right make mistakes AND learn.
You could even do,two jobs I did, shift work and worked for myself as well . Rob Foster aka centralheatking

 

[WC1]

All of the above. I did small jobs for friends and family for free, a good way to see different systems and see how things work. (obviously without breaking any rules (Gas Regs, G3 etc).

 

[AMGasServices]

I regularly have apprentices with me I explain what needs to be done. How I came to this conclusion. Explain how the job will be done.

Then I give them all the tools sit on my tool box, guide them while I have a pop of tea lol

 

[Ibraheem]

Thanks for the advice guys

 

[Rob Foster]

Thanks for the advice guys

Keep in touch and let us know how you get on please. Chking

 

[Lewis Lawson]

I am also a traine. I’m currently about to start my gas training I have plumbing expirence and looking for some advice for going the gas industry thanks

Regards lewis

 

[Chuck]

looking for some advice for going the gas industry

Always use good quality knee protectors. From the day you start to the day you retire.

 

[Last Plumber]

Always use good quality knee protectors. From the day you start to the day you retire.

How many People told me that over the years?
Now I wish I had listened and I say the same thing!