My Producer’s Plumber - Jimmy
In this episode of the Tosh Show, the host sits down with Jimmy, a professional plumber. Jimmy recounts his nontraditional path into the plumbing trade, pivoting from college to launch his own successful business during the 2008 recession.
While delving into the unglamorous realities of his profession—from dealing with clogs formed by unusual objects to maintaining composure during awkward encounters at work—Jimmy also sheds light on the specialized skills and tools required of plumbers. Equipped with practical insights gleaned from on-the-job mishaps and mistakes, the pair emphasizes the importance of exercising common sense around household plumbing systems.
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1-Page Summary
Jimmy's Work and Career as a Plumber
Jimmy's career path veered from conventional expectations when an opportunity in plumbing led him to drop out of college and pursue this vocation full-time. After obtaining his license and partnering briefly, Jimmy struck out independently as the 2008 recession hit. His strategy now focuses on establishing a reputable business through quality work and word-of-mouth, eschewing advertising.
Plumbing Techniques, Procedures and Equipment
Plumbers rely on tools like plungers, drain snakes, and high-pressure water jets to clear common clogs from hair, grease, or tree roots invading pipes. Jimmy explains that understanding water pressure is key, especially in high-rises with split water systems. Working with various materials like clay, copper and PVC pipes also requires specific skills and methods.
Dealing with Disasters and "Shitty" Situations
Jimmy confirms the unpleasant reality of retrieving unexpected objects like tampons or sex toys from plumbing systems. He also recounts the awkward experience of unwittingly walking in on an adult film set during a job.
Plumbing Horror Stories
Costly mistakes can happen due to inexperience, as when Jimmy the apprentice accidentally ruined a $10,000 part. Daniel Tosh, a homeowner, faced recurring "poop stains" with his ultra-modern low-flow toilet design, requiring an expensive replacement.
Advice and Tips for Homeowners
Jimmy advises against liquid drain cleaners, which can create messes. Daniel Tosh suggests checking water pressure issues before drilling pipes, as old clay or galvanized steel pipes may need replacing. Both warn against flushing inappropriate items like wet wipes, highlighting the need for common sense bathroom practices.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In high-rise buildings, split water systems separate potable (drinking) water from non-potable water used for activities like flushing toilets. This design helps conserve potable water and can involve different piping systems for each type of water. Understanding water pressure is crucial in these setups to ensure proper functioning and distribution of water throughout the building. Plumbers need to be familiar with these systems to effectively maintain and repair plumbing in high-rise structures.
- Working with different pipe materials like clay, copper, and PVC requires specific skills and methods due to their unique properties and installation requirements. For clay pipes, understanding how to properly seal joints and handle the brittle nature of the material is crucial. Copper pipes demand expertise in soldering techniques to create leak-proof connections. PVC pipes involve precise cutting and solvent welding for secure and durable installations.
- When plumbers mention the unpleasant reality of retrieving unexpected objects from plumbing systems, they are referring to situations where they have to remove items like toys, sanitary products, or other foreign objects that have been flushed down toilets or drains. These items can cause blockages and other issues in the plumbing system, requiring the plumber to physically extract them to restore proper function. It is a common but challenging aspect of a plumber's job to deal with these unexpected and sometimes awkward situations.
- Costly mistakes due to inexperience in plumbing can occur when a plumber lacks the necessary skills or knowledge to handle a particular task correctly. This could lead to errors such as damaging expensive parts or causing further issues in the plumbing system. Inexperienced plumbers may struggle with complex repairs or installations, potentially resulting in costly consequences for both themselves and their clients. It is crucial for plumbers to continually learn and gain experience to minimize the risk of making costly mistakes in their work.
Counterarguments
- While Jimmy's focus on word-of-mouth for business growth is commendable, it might limit his reach compared to competitors who use a mix of advertising and customer referrals.
- Not all plumbers may agree that liquid drain cleaners should always be avoided; some might argue that they can be effective for minor clogs if used properly.
- The advice to avoid using liquid drain cleaners does not consider that there are environmentally friendly and pipe-safe options available on the market.
- The suggestion to check water pressure issues before drilling into pipes is sound, but it could be expanded to include the importance of consulting with a professional plumber to avoid DIY mistakes.
- The narrative implies that all plumbers will encounter unpleasant objects in their work, but this may not be the case for those specializing in areas other than residential service or maintenance.
- The text suggests that working with different materials requires specific skills, but it doesn't acknowledge the advancements in technology and materials that have made plumbing more accessible and standardized.
- The mention of Jimmy walking in on an adult film set could be seen as an unnecessary anecdote that doesn't contribute to the professional image of plumbing.
- The story about the costly mistake made by Jimmy as an apprentice could be balanced with a discussion on the importance of proper training and mentorship in the plumbing industry to prevent such errors.
- The advice given to homeowners is quite general and does not account for the unique plumbing systems or local regulations that might affect the best practices for maintenance and repair.
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Jimmy's Work and Career as a Plumber
Jimmy takes a pragmatic approach to career choices, going from college student to independent business owner in the plumbing industry.
Background and Path to Becoming a Plumber
Jimmy was splitting his time between college and working part-time jobs, including as a bank clerk, largely to satisfy his family's expectations. They insisted that he complete his education. However, this changed when he attended a family party.
Opportunity Leads to a Career Switch
At the party, Jimmy's brother-in-law, who worked in plumbing, asked if he knew anyone interested in a plumbing opportunity. The job offered more than minimum wage, so Jimmy, in need of money and perhaps a change of direction, decided to take on the opportunity himself. He fibbed to his bank manager about needing time off for finals in order to get a taste of plumbing work.
It turns out that Jimmy enjoyed the work and the pay so much that he decided to take up plumbing full-time. This pivotal moment led Jimmy to drop out of college and fully immerse himself in his newfound vocation.
Opening His Own Plumbing Business
Jimmy's plumbing career blossomed from the seeds of partnership to the flourishing of independent business ownership.
Learning and Growth
After obtaining his plumbing license, Jimmy formed a partnership with a friend who had already built a clientele. This partnership lasted around two years, but as the economy slowed down after the 2008 recession, Jimmy decided to strike out on his own.
Buil ...
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Jimmy's Work and Career as a Plumber
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Jimmy's initial experience in plumbing began when his brother-in-law offered him a plumbing opportunity at a family party. Despite initially fibbing to his bank manager about needing time off for finals, Jimmy found himself enjoying the work and pay in the plumbing industry. This positive experience led him to drop out of college and pursue plumbing full-time, marking a significant shift in his career path.
- Jimmy's decision to drop out of college was influenced by his positive experience with plumbing work during a time when he was seeking a change. The opportunity to earn more money and enjoy the work led him to choose plumbing as a full-time career over completing his college education. This pivotal moment marked a shift in his priorities towards pursuing a vocation that resonated with him, ultimately leading to his successful career as a plumber.
- Jimmy's decision to start his own plumbing business after the 2008 recession highlights the economic challenges faced during that time. The recession, triggered by the housing market crash and financial crisis, led to a slowdown in the economy, impacting businesses across various industries. For Jimmy, this economic downturn may have influenced his choice to transition from a partnership to independent business ownership as he navigated the changing market conditions.
- Jimmy formed a partnership with a friend who already had a clientele i ...
Counterarguments
- While Jimmy's transition from college to plumbing has worked out for him, it's important to note that not all career changes are successful, and dropping out of college can be risky for long-term career prospects.
- Jimmy's decision to leave college for a plumbing opportunity may not be the best choice for everyone, as higher education can offer other career opportunities and benefits that skilled trades may not provide.
- The success of Jimmy's partnership and subsequent solo venture may not be replicable for everyone, as individual circumstances, economic conditions, and personal connections play a significant role in business success.
- Relying solely on word-of-mouth for business growth can limit the potential expansion of the business, as advertising can reach a wider audience and bring in new customers.
- While Jimmy is content with his current level of operations, this approach may not be suitable for someone with ambitions to scale their business or for industries where competition requir ...
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Plumbing Techniques, Procedures and Equipment
Jimmy the plumber offers insights into the world of plumbing, discussing a range of techniques, procedures, and equipment used to clear blockages and install or repair pipes and fixtures.
Clearing Clogs and Blockages
Using plungers, drain snakes, high pressure water jets
One of the primary techniques for clearing clogs is the use of plungers and drain snakes. For more stubborn blockages, high-pressure water jets can be employed to clear the obstruction, effectively removing buildup in the pipes.
Removing roots, grease, hair
Jimmy points out that hair is a common cause of drain clogs, particularly in showers, and adds that while complaints often center on women's long hair, everyone loses hair, contributing to this issue. However, he suggests that hair is one of the easiest problems to fix in the domain of plumbing.
When it comes to more challenging issues, such as tree roots invading clay sewer pipes, Jimmy describes these as a nightmare scenario. The roots can cause significant clogs, often necessitating the replacement of the clay pipes to rectify the problem and prevent future occurrences.
Installing and Repairing Pipes and Fixtures
Understanding water pressure and flow
Understanding water pressure and its flow is crucial for plumbers, especially when working in high-rise buildings. Jimmy explains that these buildings typically use a split water system, where city pressure suffices for lower floors. For higher levels, a pump elevates water to tanks on the roof, allowing gravity to generate the necessary water pressure.
Working with various pipe materials - clay, copper, PVC
A plumber must be adept at working with various pipe materials, which include traditional ones like clay and copper, as ...
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Plumbing Techniques, Procedures and Equipment
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In high-rise buildings, a split water system involves using city water pressure for lower floors and a pump to elevate water to tanks on the roof for higher levels. This setup ensures adequate water pressure throughout the building, with gravity assisting in distributing water effectively. The system is designed to address the challenges posed by varying water pressure needs at different heights within the building. Understanding this split system is crucial for plumbers working in high-rise structures to ensure proper water flow and pressure management.
- Working with different pipe materials presents unique challenges due to variations in their properties like durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. For example, clay pipes are durable but prone to root intrusion, while copper is malleable but can be expensive. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right material and applying appropriate installation and repair techniques. Plumbers must be skilled in handling various materials like clay, copper, and PV ...
Counterarguments
- While plungers, drain snakes, and high-pressure water jets are common tools, they may not always be the best solution for every type of clog, and sometimes chemical drain cleaners or professional services may be more effective.
- Hair is a common cause of clogs, but it's not the only one; soap scum, food waste, and small objects can also cause significant blockages.
- The description of tree roots in clay pipes as a nightmare scenario may be overstated, as there are now non-invasive methods like trenchless sewer repair that can address this issue without the need for complete pipe replacement.
- While understanding water pressure is important, the explanation provided oversimplifies the complexities of water pressure systems in high-rise buildings, which can also include booster pumps, pressure reducing valves, and other technologies.
- The assertion that plumbers must be adept with various materials like clay, copper, and PVC is true, but it's also important to note that the choice of material can depend on local codes, environmental considerations, and s ...
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Dealing with Disasters and "Shitty" Situations
Jimmy the plumber sheds light on the less glamorous aspects of his job, detailing some of the bizarre and unexpected situations he encounters.
Finding Unexpected Things in Drains and Toilets
Being a plumber often requires dealing with items that should not find their way into the plumbing system. Jimmy confirms that he has found tampons and sex toys that people have unfortunately flushed down their toilets. He also mentions the alarming possibility of cockroaches emerging from toilets, highlighting the varied and often unpleasant challenges plumbers face.
Walking in on Adult Film Set at Job S ...
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Dealing with Disasters and "Shitty" Situations
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Jimmy the plumber is sharing insights into his job, shedding light on the less glamorous and often surprising aspects of being a plumber. He discusses the challenges he faces, such as finding unexpected items in drains and toilets, and encountering unusual situations like stumbling upon an adult film set at a job site. These anecdotes provide a glimpse into the varied and sometimes bizarre experiences that plumbers like Jimmy may encounter in their line of work.
- The connection between finding unexpected items in drains and toilets and the theme of dealing with disasters and "shitty" situations lies in the challenges and unpleasant surprises plumbers face in their line of work. These unexpected items and situations can be considered disasters in the context of plumbing, creating messy and difficult scenarios for plumbers to resolve. The mention of tampons, sex toys, and cockroaches in plumbing systems underscores the messy and sometimes distressing nature of the situations plumbers have to ...
Counterarguments
...
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Plumbing Horror Stories
Homeowners and businesses alike often rely on experienced plumbers to solve their water woes, but sometimes, even the professionals can encounter nightmarish scenarios.
Expensive Mistakes
In the pursuit of modern aesthetics or during the learning curve of the trade, plumbers may inadvertently make grave errors that cost a pretty penny.
Jimmy's Costly Learning Experience
An anecdote shared involves Jimmy, a young apprentice who made the cardinal sin of a plumbing mishap. In an attempt to brazing copper pipe, he accidentally inflicted ruin upon a part that cost a staggering $10,000. This blunder not only dealt a financial blow to the client but also served as a harsh lesson in the importance of careful craftsmanship.
Daniel's Design Disaster
Daniel Tosh, a homeowner who opted for a sleek, modern look in his bathroom, faced an un ...
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Plumbing Horror Stories
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Brazing copper pipe is a process where two copper pieces are joined using a filler metal with a lower melting point than copper. This method allows for a strong bond without melting the actual copper pieces. It is commonly used in plumbing to connect copper pipes securely.
- A wall-mounted toilet is a type of toilet that is fixed to the wall, rather than the floor. In some cases, due to their design and low water usage, these toilets may not effectively clear waste during flushing, leading to visible stains left behind on the bowl. This issue can be a result of inadequate water flow or improper installation, causing inconvenience and the need for costly replacements. It highlights the importance of considering functionality and practicality when choosing plumbing fixtures for a space.
- The importance of careful craftsmanship in plumbing lies in ensuring precision and accuracy during installations and repairs to prevent costly mistakes and potential damage to the plumbing system. Skilled craftsmanship involves attention to detail, adherence to industry standards, and the use of proper techniques and materials to guarantee the longevity and efficiency of the plumbing work. Neglecting careful craftsmanship can lead to leaks, malfunctions, and safety hazards, highlighting the significance of meticulous work in the plumbing profession.
- In plumbin ...
Counterarguments
- While the text emphasizes the cost of mistakes, it's important to recognize that errors are a natural part of the learning process in any trade, and they can lead to improved skills and knowledge if properly addressed.
- The cost of Jimmy's mistake is highlighted, but it's not clear if measures were taken to mitigate such risks, such as supervision by a more experienced plumber or the use of practice materials for apprentices.
- The story of Daniel Tosh's wall-mounted toilet might imply that modern aesthetics are inherently flawed, but it's possible to have both style and functionality with proper research and quality products.
- The text could be seen as placing undue blame on the individual plumbers for systemic issues, such as the pressure to use low-flow toilets for environmental reasons, which may have design flaws that are not the fault of the plumber.
- The anecdotes provided are i ...
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Advice and Tips for Homeowners
Practical insights for maintaining plumbing systems are highlighted by Jimmy and Daniel Tosh, emphasizing the proper use of products and infrastructure for long-lasting home management.
Using Plungers and Drain Cleaners Correctly
Jimmy advises against the use of liquid drain cleaners in sinks or toilets. The drain cleaner is designed to dissolve hair and can create a mess if used improperly. It implies the necessity for homeowners to be cautious with such products and to use appropriate methods for clearing clogs.
Checking Water Pressure and Pipe Materials
Daniel Tosh discusses water pressure issues, pointing out that drilling out pipes won't solve insufficient water pressure problems. The discussion suggests the need to consider broader system issues and possibly replace old infrastructure, such as clay pipes and galvanized steel, which could be causing low pressure and other problems.
Be Careful What You Flush!
Jimmy emphasizes the impor ...
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Advice and Tips for Homeowners
Additional Materials
Clarifications
...
Counterarguments
- While Jimmy advises against using liquid drain cleaners, some might argue that when used according to the manufacturer's instructions, these products can be effective and safe for occasional use to clear minor clogs.
- In response to Daniel Tosh's point about water pressure, it could be countered that while replacing old pipes is a long-term solution, there are short-term fixes such as cleaning aerators or pressure regulators that can improve water pressure without the need for immediate, extensive plumbing work.
- Regarding the caution against flushing wet wipes, some may point out that there are newer flushable wipes designed to disintegrate more easily in water, which could be considered safe for flushing in moderation, provided the local ...
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