When searching for plumbers, Ottawa residents have several options. There are standard plumbers, who are certified to perform routine maintenance, installation, and repair; plumbing contractors, who generally perform more complicated projects; and backflow prevention specialists, who work on stopping contaminated water from flowing back into the water system.
As a homeowner, you’ll primarily be working with the first two types of plumbers. Ottawa does have many hills, which means that there is a great need for backflow specialists, but these professionals generally work with builders and contractors, so you probably will never have to call one yourself. And if you do need one, your plumber or contractor will tell you.
In order to make the distinction clear, let’s look at the main differences between plumbers and plumbing contractors.
Plumbing contractors:
If you have a large plumbing project that you estimate will require very extensive repairs or substantial work to your home plumbing, there’s a good chance that you’re going to need a plumbing contractor. In order to be certain, consider these factors:
- Is the project going to take more than a couple of hours?
- Is the professional going to have to work with external water connections?
- Will he or she be required to install major plumbing elements or replace large sections of pipe?
- Does your plumbing project affect the entire household?
If the answer to one or more of these questions is yes, then you might want to call a plumbing contractor.
The main difference is this: To become certified plumbers, Ottawa professionals have to have proven experience, and they must pass a demanding exam. Plumbing contractors must have the standard plumbing certification, but they also have to pass an advanced test, and they have to have at least two years of plumbing certification under their belts.
If you’re still not sure whether you need a plumbing contractor, call a few that you find in the “plumbers Ottawa” directory. Many contractors would be happy to do an in-home consultation and price estimate. And if all you need is a standard plumber, they’ll tell you.
Plumbers:
Plumbers are our go-to people for those minor tasks and plumbing emergencies that don’t require significant amounts of time or parts to repair. All plumbers are experts in their field, but standard plumbers simply have a different way of working. Rather than working on large, multi-day projects, they usually work by appointment, and they may work with several customers each day.
Thus, when calling plumbers, Ottawa residents can expect to make an appointment, and you can usually get a moderately accurate price estimate over the phone.
There’s one thing that standard plumbers are not permitted to do: They’re not allowed to work with connections between your plumbing and the external sewage and water systems. Other than this one limitation, they are qualified to work on any aspect of your home plumbing.
So, if you have a simple plumbing job, call a standard plumber. And if your plumber thinks you need more extensive work, he or she can refer you to a contractor.
