Plumbing industry - Articles | Plumbing & Mechanical

Plumbing Industry Adds $442B to U.S. Economy, Faces 550,000-Worker Shortage

Two recent studies find the economic impact of plumbers & plumbing manufacturers, and the projected shortfall of plumbers by 2027.

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Staff

August 20, 2026

Plumbing Manufacturers International’s “Plumbing Manufacturing Industry Economic Impact Study” reveals the combined, total economic impact of plumbers and plumbing manufacturers to be more than $442 billion annually, with almost 1.8 million jobs, and over $142 billion in wages.

The cover for the "Paige the Plumber" book.

Bradford White Sparks Interest in Skilled Trades with New Children’s Book

The water heater manufacturer partners with children’s book author to inspire the next generation of plumbers and trade professionals.

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Staff

June 2, 2026

The book is sponsored through Bradford White’s Industry Forward program, which highlights the value and opportunities that come with a career in the trades.

A commercial bathroom with several urinals.

Building Resilience: Why Pressure-Assisted Toilets are Critical for Emergency Preparedness

As water scarcity concerns grow, commercial facilities are increasingly adopting plumbing systems designed for efficiency and reliability.

Mike Gembarski

May 20, 2026

High-efficiency plumbing systems can help facilities conserve water, reduce operational costs, and improve long-term sustainability performance.

Late night show comedian mocks plumbing industry

Jimmy Kimmel took an unnecessary shot at the plumbing industry in a recent episode of his show.

Kyle Gargaro

March 26, 2026

A joke about plumbers on late-night TV is a reminder of a deeper problem the trades have been dealing with for years.

Cropped image of a plumber putting glue on the inside of a PVC pipe in a trench.

Editorial Opinion | Kristen Bayles

Reflections on a year of change: Why the plumbing and mechanical industry continues to deliver

Starting the year with purpose

Kristen R. Bayles

January 28, 2026

To start off the new year, editor Kristen Bayles reflects on 2025, and what's to come in 2026.

A plumber cutting PVC pipe with a band saw at a construction site.

Cautious growth through critical change: 2026 Plumbing Industry Outlook

Markets stabilize, regulations intensify, and AI accelerates: industry leaders share where opportunities will emerge.

Natalie Forster

December 5, 2025

Contractors and engineers see a marketplace that is stabilizing, even if margins remain tight. “We remain cautiously optimistic about plumbing industry market conditions in 2026,” says Jason Pritchard, president of the Plumbing-Heating-Contractors—National Association (PHCC). He notes that while uncertainty remains, moderate growth is expected for plumbing and HVAC contractors, though high prices driven by tariffs and inflation will continue to shape consumer behavior.