Mechanical services are a highly specialised trade, where an intricate level of knowledge of building services is essential.
Mechanical plumbers operate and maintain mechanical service components in domestic and commercial settings such as waste disposal units, septic tanks, central heating systems, air handling units, cooling systems, ventilating systems, drainage systems and air conditioning. Mechanical plumbers must have a detailed knowledge mechanical services including plumbing systems, the pipework systems they work on, as well as general building services. Working with these can be difficult and dangerous if repairs are not carried out correctly. A mechanical plumber will typically have an understanding of gas, electrical and water systems to help them carry out their work safely. Mechanical plumbing is an extremely physically demanding job; a mechanical plumber must be able to lift and carry heavy items regularly due to the size or weight of equipment they're working on. Mechanical services providers may need a full range of relevant qualifications. They are well trained in risk management. It is common to install machine facilities and related ductwork, leak test refrigerants, connect refrigerant tubing, set up water supply, ensure all the plumbing work is up to date, fit insulation, and more.
Mechanical plumbers must have a detailed knowledge of domestic building services such as gas or electricity to carry out their role effectively. A mechanical plumber will typically offer maintenance services to customers, including leak detection and the repair of plumbing fittings. They may also be involved with drainage work on behalf of homeowners when there is foundation leakage due to poor ground conditions from rainwater or flood water.
A mechanical plumber can be responsible for installing and repairing gas lines - this is a very technical process that requires a full understanding of how the gas system works. Plumbing regulations may or may not include installing medical gas lines. A mechanical plumber works with plumbing pipework systems (steel pressure piping) in residential, commercial and other settings. They can help with many areas such as faulty taps or pipes, leak detection and repair and even drainage problems due to storm damage leaks from the roof.
Modern mechanical plumbing systems consume a lot of energy, which can be difficult for older or inefficient appliances to deal with. Heat loss is also an issue that comes with older models; this is where the flow of heating from the unit isn't effective enough, meaning a room will take longer than expected to heat up.
Mechanical plumbers typically know how the different types of plumbing pipework systems operate to carrying out repairs.
Some mechanical plumbers specialise in a particular type of plumbing and pipework system. Examples include:
Gas lines, which are installed using plastic or metal piping to connect appliances such as gas water heaters and cookers/hobs to a central heating boiler.
Water pipe systems, which are connected to water tanks for storing clean drinking water.
Drainage pipes that run from sewers outside homes into the home's toilet drain.
A mechanical plumber can carry out drainage work if there is faulty pipework causing flooding problems within a property. They may also be involved with drainage work when storm damage occurs.