Difference Between a Plumber and a Drainer

In the plumbing and drainage industry, one of the most common questions we get asked is what is the difference between a plumber and a drainer?

When it comes to plumbing and drainage, you may think that a plumber and drainers are one and the same, but there is actually a key difference between the two.

It’s important to understand the difference between a plumber and a drainer, as the right tradesperson for the job will depend on the task at hand. So, what do plumbers do? And what do drainers do? We’re here to explain.

Plumbers and Plumbing Services

A plumber is a skilled tradesperson who is experienced in all types of plumbing services. They are responsible for installing and repairing pipes, fixtures and appliances such as toilets, sinks, water tanks, hot water systems, and blocked toilets.

Plumbers are also responsible for maintenance and repairs to water supplies to a property. For any of these services, it is important to hire a licensed plumber.

Not all plumbers will be able to perform drainage jobs as they will be required to have an additional drainer's licence in order to do the work.

Drainers and Drainage Services

A drainer is a skilled professional that provides a range of services related to the removal of wastewater away from the property.

A licensed drainer can provide a variety of services including unblocking drains, both inside and outside the property, and pipe relining. Using specialist tools such as CCTV drain cameras, they are also able to examine drain and pipes for damage and blockages.

In addition, to ensure customer satisfaction, all drainers must hold a drainage licence, which shows that they are qualified to provide these services. In short, a drainer is the go-to person for any type of drainage work, from basic blockage problems to more complex repairs.

Common Plumbing Problems

Plumbing is the complex network of pipes, fixtures, and fittings in your home. It provides clean, safe drinking water, cooking and cleaning water, as well as providing heat. Plumbing problems are a part of home ownership, but a licensed and experienced plumber can quickly fix them.

There are many issues that can arise, such as:

1. Leaky pipes: Caused by pipe corrosion, joint damages, or excessive pressure
2. Low water pressure: Can indicate underlying problems like hidden leaks in pipes or blockages
3. Faulty water heater: Issues can be caused by incorrect water pressure, electric faults or wear and tear from the age of your water heater unit
4. Toilet running: A defective valve or faulty flush could be the cause
5. Clogged toilet: Commonly caused by flushing non-flushable objects, such as wet wipes, down the toilet
6. Water heater problems: Issues like sediment buildup or failures of the heating element can disrupt stop the water heater working properly

Common Drainage Problems

The drainage system of a home is designed to remove wastewater as quickly and efficiently as possible. The drainage system includes all pipes, gutters, and drains that carry rainwater and sewage away from your property.

Any part of the drainage system can experience problems at any time. Most of these problems can be fixed by specialist drainage plumbers.

Some of the most common problems that people face include:

1. Blocked Drains: Caused by grease buildup and cooking fat, leaves and dirt, intrusion of tree roots and unflushable items flushed into toilets
2. Incorrect Land Grading: When the slope of the land directs the water towards the property rather than away from it
3. Cracked or Broken pipes: Commonly caused by extensive wear and tear or intrusion of tree roots
4. Overflowing Gutter: Most commonly caused build up of leaves

So, Plumbers vs Drainers: What’s the Difference?

In short, the main difference between plumbing and drainage is the inside and outside of your property. Plumbers work on jobs that involve the water going into, or that is inside of your property. Whereas, drainers work on jobs that involve water going out of your property.

Sewer and stormwater issues require a drainage specialist; these are job that involve the external drains, pits and pipes. Whereas, if you're looking to fix a tap in your kitchen or replacing a shower head then that requires a general plumber as they are related to the plumbing system within the building.

There are times when a plumber can assist with external jobs such as removing leaves and debris obstructing your drain, as this form of "blocked drain" is much the same as clearing a blocked toilet. However, for jobs such as unblocking sewers or deep cleaning drains, it’s a drainer that you’ll need who specialise in such tasks.

Overall, external jobs involving drains, sewers and stormwater issues all require the expertise of a drainer, and any fixing or repair within the building requires a plumber.

Are There Professionals That Are Plumbers And Drainers?

Absolutely! There are tradies who are both qualified and certified in plumbing and drains and you've found us! Our Reline Solutions plumbing and drain expertise allows us to handle a variety of drainage and plumbing problems. We not only have the qualifications and experience as plumbers and drainers, but our vehicles are kitted out with the tools necessary to complete both facets of plumbing and drainage.

If you have any questions about plumbers and drainers, or wish to talk to our friendly team of skilled drainage experts, call us on 0403 355 550 or complete our online enquiry form,