Plumbing Cons: The Real Talk Before You Start

If you’re eyeing a plumbing job because the pay looks good, pause for a minute. Every trade has its flip side, and plumbing is no exception. Below we break down the most common drawbacks so you can weigh them against the perks.

Long, Unpredictable Hours

Plumbers are often on call 24/7. A burst pipe at midnight means you’re pulled out of bed, sometimes with no extra pay. Emergencies don’t stick to a 9‑to‑5 schedule, so expect nights, weekends, and holidays to become part of the routine. This can clash with family time or hobbies, and the irregular rhythm can wear you down over months.

Physical Strain and Safety Risks

The job is heavy on the body. You’ll be lifting, kneeling, and crawling in tight spaces daily. Back injuries, joint pain, and repetitive‑motion issues are common complaints. Add to that the risk of burns, cuts, or exposure to hazardous materials like asbestos in older buildings. Proper safety gear helps, but the risk never disappears completely.

Licensing Hurdles and Ongoing Education

Unlike some gigs where you can start right away, plumbing usually demands a state‑specific license. That means passing exams, logging a set number of apprenticeship hours, and paying renewal fees every few years. If you move to another state, you may have to repeat parts of the process, which can be costly and time‑consuming.

Income Fluctuations

While experienced plumbers can earn a solid salary, entry‑level wages are modest. Pay depends heavily on the region, the type of work (residential vs. commercial), and whether you’re self‑employed. Slow seasons, economic downturns, or a dip in construction projects can slash your income for months.

Self‑employment adds another layer of uncertainty. You’ll need to handle marketing, bookkeeping, insurance, and tool upgrades—all expenses that cut into your take‑home pay.

Customer Relations Challenges

Dealing with homeowners in crisis can be stressful. Some clients expect instant fixes or low prices, and not everyone appreciates the technical complexities involved. Handling complaints, negotiating costs, and staying professional under pressure are part of the daily grind.

So, are these cons deal‑breakers? Not necessarily. Many plumbers love the hands‑on work, the problem‑solving, and the sense of accomplishment when they fix a stubborn issue. The key is to go in with eyes open. If you can manage odd hours, stay fit, and handle licensing paperwork, the trade can still be rewarding.

Before you sign up for an apprenticeship, talk to current plumbers, ask about their toughest days, and see if the lifestyle fits your goals. Knowing the downsides ahead of time saves you from surprises later on.

Bottom Line

Plumbing offers solid pay and job security, but it also brings long hours, physical wear, licensing hoops, and income swings. Weigh these points against your personal priorities. If the cons feel manageable, the trade could be a great fit. If not, keep exploring other vocational paths that align better with your lifestyle.