What will you do?
You prepare the work on site, dismantle any old installation and fit the heating appliances, sanitary taps and appliances. You shape and lay the pipework, connect everything and can install underfloor heating. The role is also known as plumber, heating technician or central heating fitter.
- Prepare the work on site and dismantle old installations
- Install heating appliances and central heating systems
- Fit sanitary taps and appliances
- Connect sanitary and heating appliances
- Shape and lay pipework and install underfloor heating
- Clean up the site
- Work safely and with respect for the environment
Skills to develop
- Practical plumbing and pipe fitting skills
- Ability to read installation drawings and connection schemes
- Careful and safety-minded way of working
Your foundation for this occupation
Plumbing and heating installation requires understanding pipe routes, jointing methods, supports and installation drawings. Practical plumbing or central-heating training can provide an entry route. Ask how much time is spent actually fitting and connecting pipes, appliances and manifolds; a product demonstration is not a substitute for repeated installation practice.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Build a small installation from drawing to fitted pipework. Practise accurate measuring, supporting and joining the pipe materials used. Allow access to valves, space for insulation and room to service appliances. For underfloor heating, learn to follow the laying plan and document each circuit clearly.
Check your work
Check the work before walls or floors are closed. Compare routes and connections with the plan and arrange the specified tightness and functional tests through the site procedure. Photograph concealed routes for handover. Commissioning and any recognised inspections are separate stages; completing the physical installation does not replace them.
How can you grow?
Specialisations include bathroom renovation, underfloor heating and hydraulic connections for heat-pump systems. Moving into service work requires additional diagnostic and measurement skills. A team leader also coordinates with electricians, floor layers and other trades to have pipework and penetrations ready on time.
Frequently asked questions
Can an installer issue a boiler maintenance certificate?
Installation training does not automatically grant that authority. Statutory periodic maintenance and certain inspections of central heating appliances have recognition requirements depending on the Belgian region and appliance type. In Flanders, gas and liquid-fuel appliances require the relevant technician recognition for those activities. Clarify who performs the inspection and issues the documents.