As a homeowner, you might think that pipes are pipes and that the people installing – and repairing them – all have the same skills and training. But, with houses getting bigger and bigger – the average Canadian home size has doubled since 1970 – we’re talking lots of pipes. And ducts. And drains.
Today’s homes have complex systems from hot and cold water to drainage and waste systems, from heating to ventilating and air conditioning. Knowing whether you need plumbing or Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) service is important. HVAC vs Plumber: let’s take a look at the differences between the two trades.
What Does Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Involve?
A company providing HVAC service has technicians who specialize – and are trained in – HVAC. That means they install, service, and repair the systems that heat and cool your house. Of course, they need plumbing skills to handle the piping, but an HVAC company also handles the wiring and ductwork.
In addition to central air conditioning, that includes all kinds of heating systems from heat pumps to oil and gas-fired furnaces. Forced hot air heating? Traditional radiators with low-pressure steam or circulating hot water? Only the trained service techs from a reputable HVAC contractor will have all the skills and experience you might need.
When your heat goes off in the dead of winter, you need a company that knows all the systems, manufacturers, and models inside and out! You can’t wait while someone less experienced learns on the job.
What Does a Plumber Do?
You’re in plumbing territory from your water pipes to any fixtures connected to them. That includes your freshwater and waste and drainage systems from fixtures to pipes. Plumbers go through a long apprenticeship learning all the skills involved – and it’s a long list.
The list goes on: sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, faucets, water filtration. Hire a plumber, and you’re hiring a specialist with all the hands-on experience and know-how to install and repair any plumbing fixture or piping.
From leaky pipes to clogged toilets or a bathroom makeover, you need experienced professionals like the techs from this plumber repair service.
Especially with new installations – but also with renovations and repairs – plumbers have to follow the building codes. Adhering to local and provincial plumbing codes and permitting means your fixtures and piping are correctly installed. Not following the code can lead to expensive damage and even health issues.
HVAC vs Plumber – You Make the Call
Now you know more about the differences between a plumber and an HVAC technician. So, the next time you need service, repair, or a new installation, you’ll make the right call following one simple rule.
HVAC vs Plumber? If it’s heating or air conditioning, you need HVAC help. If it involves water or waste, you need a plumber. Luckily, the most experienced and established companies have HVAC and plumbing service techs on staff!
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