The Professional Plumber Podcast: Recent Episodes
Articulate IT Radio
The Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB) is a trusted professional body, as recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), that works proactively to promote better plumbing practices in South Africa.
In these podcast episodes we will have interesting and informative conversations with industry experts, PIRB personnel, and also with other invited guests, with the intent to serve our registered plumbers through yet another exciting and convenient platform.
Learn more about who the PIRB is, what we do, and also listen to other interesting conversations regarding industry-related topics.
So sit back, relax, enjoy these episodes, and be sure to also connect with the PIRB on www.pirb.co.za, and on Facebook or our other social media platforms.
Join Willem Klopper in Episode 131 of The Professional Plumber Podcast, as he chats with Theo Janse van Rensburg, of Stiebel-Eltron, about instant water heaters as a decentralised option, with specific focus on Stiebel-Eltron’s Shower Instant Water heater. In addition, they will also discuss Stiebel’s Water Filtration range, and the traing they provide to plumbers, especially to those who can serve as service agents.
Join Willem Klopper in Episode 130 of The Professional Plumber Podcast, as he chats with Ettiene Venter and Addolf Fox, of NetVendor, a product and service provider at the forefront of technology innovation, and a leader in vending and metering solutions. They will talk about the brand and its products, with specific focus on the Smart Ultrasonic Postpaid Water Metering Solution.
Join Willem Klopper in Episode 128 of The Professional Plumber Podcast, as he chats with Ian Dickie & Co, one of South Africa’s most respected manufacturers and distributors of Construction and Municipal equipment, with specific focus on their drain and pipe cleaning equipment.
Join Willem Klopper in Episode 129 of The Professional Plumber Podcast, as he chats with Herman Strauss and Allen Scholtz about the difference between product testing and certification. They will also delve into both the requirement for and the value of certification, as well as the continual process thereof.
Join Willem Klopper in this episode of the Professional Plumber Podcast, as he chats with Allmech, a leading boiler manufacturer in South Africa, who offers a wide range of electrical, gas and oil-fired boilers and related water treatment solutions, about their products and services. They will focus on the Runxin and F104H Leak detection Shut-off Valves.
Join Willem Klopper and Omega Test House in Episode 126 of The Professional Plumber Podcast, as we discuss the importance, value, and process of product testing and accreditation. As plumbers, we are more informed than our customers, and can therefore make more informed decisions about the products we recommend and install.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Tiaan Pienaar, technical manager of Hansgrohe, to discuss their brand, the aspects that make their products unique, as well as common mistakes installers make with their products.
Join Willem Klopper in this episode, as he chats with Allan Ross-Watt, of Water Components South Africa, about the fact that South Africa is not only a water scarce country, but also that the quality of our potable water is mostly poor. Water Components SA is a leader in quality water filtration equipment supply, design & support, helping us have access to safer water.
Join Willem Klopper in this episode, as he chats with Ajay Jekison, of Power 4 Less, about their innovative Integrated Heat Pump Geyser (IHP), and a fascinating supplementary initiative that can contribute to a massive reduction of power consumption in SA.
Ariston’s products and offerings greatly impacts the plumbing industry, giving more homes access to advanced sustainable comfort solutions using less energy and effort. In this episode Ariston share their invaluable knowledge on geysers and smart control technology, especially the retrofit kit, called “Geyser Connect”. We’ll also delve into decentralized water heating systems, and what Ariston has to offer in that regard.
Moxical has been around for over 25 years, establishing itself as a distributors of world-class products. It recently entered the plumbing industry, and in this episode we will discuss this venture and what it is that Moxical offers to this exciting market.
South Africa is a water-scarce country. Various factors contribute thereto, but the fact remains that drastic measure must be implemented now already, to preserve the most valuable commodity on earth. Rain harvesting and its innovative products and systems, is one such a solution.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Shaaz Moosa, CEO & CFO of Supahot Geysers and Emil Claassens, the General Manager of Supahot Geysers.
We always reiterate the fact that having the right tools for the job, is as important than having the correct knowledge and experience. There are many components required for to complete proper plumbing jobs, and Upat offers a few products that are of great value. In this episode, we’ll focus on their Firestop (Fire Protection Solutions) and their Installation Systems (Clamps, Brackets, Hangers).
In this episode, we delve into the Apollo Solar Technology Brand, its origins, its footprint, its product range, and any interesting and exciting information about the company. We will also have an in-studio product display/presentation.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Preyan Arumugam-Nanoolal, Senior Research Scientist at University of KZN and Herman Strauss, to discuss sewage and sanitation.
There lies value in getting to know the company that manufactures the products you use. And even greater value when you have a better understanding about the products. Join Willem and the representatives of Valsir SA, as they discuss and demo some of Valsir's products.
Most plumbers who work for themselves or own plumbing companies, face one common challenge ... admin work. In this episode we chat about a software product that can assist plumbers with aspects like job management, teams management, invoicing, purchasing of supplies, and more.
Our industry is ever evolving, and it's not only important to keep up with new trends and technology, but also an opportunity for us to grow and develop our knowledge, services and business. When the globe faces certain challenges, we can use them as new opportunities. In this episode, Willem and his guests discuss rainwater harvesting, and how that creates opportunities for plumbers, while addressing a global crisis.
In today's episode, Willem will be chatting with Coenie van der Merwe, Product Manager for Standard Hidraulica SA, about their brand and products, as well as some new products recently launched.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Stephane Cloud from Novopress and Elton Panizza from Integrated Pipe Solutions, to chat about their products. It is a fast-growing trend. It's quick and easy, and strangely enough, as effective as soldering pipes together. What are the benefits? What are the different types? And how do plumbers choose?
Having the right tools for the job, is as important as having the correct knowledge and skills. Upat South Africa represents several international companies, to bring a variety of top-quality products to the building industry, at market related prices, ensuring that our tradespersons are supplied with almost everything they need to do their daily jobs. Joining Willem in studio to expand on this, is Ryan Bankier and Werner Koch.
In today's episode, Willem catches up with Craig Miller from Saniflo to discuss what's been happening since their last podcast together, followed by an exciting product demo/showcasing.
In this episode, Willem chats with Richard Wiederhold, founder and owner of Advanced Valves, about their new and exciting products. During the show, Richard also does a few quick product demonstrations, showcasing the ingenuity behind their brand.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Stephane Cloud, sales manager of Novopress South Africa, to discuss their brand, its footprint around the globe, and the process of establishing brand awareness in South Africa.
In this episode, Willem sits down with Herman Strauss, Audit Manager at the PIRB, to discuss compliance and insurance in the workplace. In many instances of insurance work, there are pre-existing non-compliances, and neither the insurance or the customer wants to pay for getting the installation compliant. What is the plumber's responsibility in such instances? When do they note pre-existing non-compliances and how do these compare with non-compliances?
In today's episode, Willem sits down with Rothenberger MD Adler Tuebes to discuss their products, the innovation that goes behind manufacturing these products, as well as what value their products can add to the plumbers out there.
South Africa faces a leadership bankruptcy. People occupy leadership positions, but are either corrupt or incompetent, or they are not good leaders. They may even be leaders who lead well, but do not lead with good intentions. Leadership may start at the top, at government, but it filters right down through our businesses and into our personal lives. There is much that can be said about leaders and leadership, especially about the shortage that we have of good leaders in South Africa. And in all spheres of life, including the plumbing trade and industry, we need good leaders. Joining Willem to unpack this topic, is Asanda Khoza and Jason Bosman from the School of Leadership.
Taking technical initiative - although it might sound strange, this is something that's really fascinating, and can be explored from many angles. However, "technical" is the word of the day, here. To be a plumber, one needs to be technical. But, what exactly does it mean to take technical initiative? Let's find out!
It’s always nice to hear a success story, even if it is a story that is still in progress. Success stories give us hope, they inspire us, they plant a seed of ambition and a motivation to work toward our own success. In this episode, Willem is joined by Tiro Mokae, founder and MD of Kimberley Handyman.
It is one thing for a plumber to attain their trade certificate, and another to gain years of experience in the trade, and perhaps starting their own successful plumbing company and creating employment opportunities for others. But is that the ceiling? Is that all that plumbers can be, or is there more that they can achieve? In this episode, Willem sits down with Lorraine Mooi, the President of South African Women in Plumbing.
In this episode, Willem is joined by Nomfundo Makhathini to discuss financial management, with specific focus on budget. Proper financial management isn't necessarily such a complex process. You don't need a financial background or qualification to manage your personal, or company's finances. In fact, there are a few simple, basic principles that one can apply to maintain proper management over your finances. One way of doing that, is to set up and manage your budget.
In this episode, Willem and Richard will discuss the topic of "How To Improve Yourself" from a technical perspective. Richard will touch on his experience as a plumber out in the field, as well as from an auditing experience. Having the right mindset of wanting to improve yourself is what counts the most; it's important not to stagnate in an industry that is constantly changing and evolving.
In this episode we again discuss insurance for your business, but with specific focus on cover for the things that you may legally be held liable for. Joining this episode is Mosidi Shomang, of South African Insurance Association (SAIA).
In as much as we have discovered over the last few technical episodes, plumbing is a complicated and knowledge-hungry profession. Notwithstanding that, at the end of the day one still needs to get physical and install the hardware. And because of this, plumbing can be a very dangerous profession. And in this episode, Willem and Richard discuss the dangers associated with plumbing.
There are many plumbers who start their own businesses or companies, others simply work for themselves. It is imperative that plumbers understand the taxes that apply to businesses, especially VAT. In this episode we will discuss VAT, what it is, why it is, and tips and advice for plumbing business owners to better understand this type of tax.
In this episode, I’ll have a chat to a couple of lady plumbers. The question is; can women do plumbing? This is a burning question for many people, because not only is plumbing work quite complex and technical, but it also entails much physical labour. Joining me for this conversation is Neo Senne and Dilinde Maselesele, both qualified, registered, and licensed plumbers.
In this episode we’ll be discussing the industry professional body and your designation.
Joining me for this conversation is Japie Nel, the Senior Manager: Registration and Recognition at SAQA, and Lea Smith, Chairperson of the Board of the PIRB.
In this episode we are discussing the difference between Minimum Requirements and Best Practice, and how plumbers are to interpret this and put it into practice on a day-to-day basis?
Welcome to another business-orientated episode of the Professional Plumber Podcast.
In this episode, we’ll be talking about Standards & Regulations pertaining to plumbing work and the plumbing industry.
In this episode, we’ll be talking about Complaints, with specific focus on complaints received from customers about plumbers or plumbing work done at their premises. Joining me for this conversation is Richard Bailey and Aiden Herbert of the PIRB.
In this business-orientated episode, we’ll be talking about Managing Expectations, both your own and your customers’ expectations, with specific focus on invoicing and payments.
Joining me for this conversation is Gregg Hopfeldt, the Finance Director at Invoice SA.
In this episode we talk about Adequate Supervision, what exactly that means, what the risks are of inadequate supervision, and what the SANS Standards require when it comes to supervision.
In this episode, we'll be discussing the Basic Conditions Of Employment Act, the purpose it serves, and some of the key provisions included in the Act. Joining me for this conversation is Louis Ackermann, the Director at Intelligent Labour Solutions.
In this technically orientated discussion we talk about the importance of Choosing the Correct Materials for Water Installations, with the focus on specifically Metallic Pipes.
What are the rules that govern the use of these pipes?
What can be the consequences be of choosing incorrect materials?
What should be considered when choosing materials/fittings, and installing metallic pipe systems?
Welcome to another business-orientated episode of the Professional Plumber Podcast. In this episode, we’ll be discussing the PIRB’s new CPD Rewards Program, the purpose it serves, how it works and how registered plumbers can benefit from being rewarded for continuously developing their knowledge and skills of their trade and industry.
In this technically orientated discussion we talk about the importance of Choosing the Correct Materials for Water Installations, with the focus on specifically Plastic Pipes.
What are the rules that govern the use of these pipes?
What can be the consequences be of choosing incorrect materials?
What should be considered when choosing materials/fittings, and installing plastic pipe systems?
Whether you’re an employee or the owner of a company, properly managing your finances is one of the key factors to success.
In this episode we discuss you and your finances. The importance of proper financial management, and a couple of tips that can assist you in achieving that.
In this episode Richard Bailie and I discuss the importance of choosing the correct material for above-ground drainage, as well as some of the common mistakes that plumbers make when choosing these materials and the risks associated with that.
In this business-orientated episode of the Professional Plumber Podcast, Brendan Reynolds, the Executive Director of IOSPA, joins me for a conversation about the importance and value of Planning Ahead. Winston Churchill once said “He who fails to plan, is planning to fail”, while Dwight Eisenhower said “Plans are nothing, planning is everything.”
In this technical episode Richard Bailie and I discuss the importance of choosing the correct materials for underground drainage, as well as what can go wrong when incorrect materials are used.
Plumbing is an intricate and complex trade that requires much theoretic and technical knowledge and skill. There is a thorough process to follow to become a professional, properly qualified plumber. In this episode I have a discussion with Nick Joubert, of IOPSA, about how to become a qualified plumber and how being properly qualified benefits you.
In this technical discussion, we talk about the Mixing Valve for Stratification in Heat Pump Systems.
In this technical episode, we discuss the Mixing Valve for the Stratification in Heat Pump Systems.
The famous Dolly Parton once said, “Never get so busy making a living, that you forget to make a life.” In this episode I have a conversation with Debbie Donaldson, a Leadership & Entrepreneurial Coach and Mentor, about the importance of achieving and maintaining a healthy balance between our work-life and personal life.
Plumbing is an intricate and complex trade that requires much theoretic and technical knowledge and skill. However, plumbing is a service that is delivered to customers, and customer service and relations are as important to any successful plumbing business, as the technical skills, knowledge, and experience. In this episode we discuss the link between delivering quality customer service and being a professional tradesperson.
In this technical discussion we talk about Stagnation in Solar Water Heater Systems, to find out what it is, how it is caused, the risk associated with it, and how to prevent it.
In this Technical Discussion Richard Bailie and I discuss Reverse Thermosyphon in a Solar Water Heater Systems. What is it, and how can it be prevented.
In this episode I have a discussion with Brad Boertje, of Borcon, and Steve Brown, of IOPSA, about contracts, to give you, the listener, a better understanding about contracts, how South African Law affects it, how contracts are formed and what can go wrong if proper contracts are not in place.
In this episode we have a conversation with Kabelo Paile and Mosidi Shomang, of the South African Insurance Association, to discuss the importance of having the correct insurance in place, so that you can rest assured that your business is properly protected.
In this technical-themed episode we discuss the Primary Loop of a Solar Water Heater System, to find out exactly what it is, what the requirements therefor are, and what factors to consider when it comes to the primary loop.
In this episode we have a conversation with two experienced business owners, namely Lea Smith, who is also a representative of the PIRB, and Mandy Keil, of the UPP Group, about understanding cashflow and how properly managing it is crucial to the success of our businesses.
In this Technical episode we discuss the Positioning of Components on a Geyser Installation. Although it may seem like the most basic knowledge, auditors reports that they regularly find that many mistakes are made in this regard.
If we don't have a growth mindset, we can easily stagnate in our lives and businesses. In this episode we have a conversation with Anton Venter, of the School of Leadership Africa, and Duncan Keil, of the UPP Group, about the concept of having a growth mindset and the value that it can add to our lives and more importantly, the value it can add to our businesses.
In this Technical Discussion we talk about the Pressure Ratings of Geyser Components, and what is important to consider when installing components.
In this conversation we discuss the Controlling of Solar Water Heater Systems, what can go wrong and what installers should take into consideration.
In this Technical Discussion we talk about the Importance of using a Solar Tank vs a Conventional Tank in Solar Water Heater Systems, as well as complying with the requirements of SANS 1307.
In this technical discussion we talk about the Solar Heater Tempering Valve, its function and the importance thereof.
In this technical episode we discuss the importance of and all the factors to take into consideration for determining the correct sizing of a solar water heater and system.
In this technical conversation we discuss Balanced Pressure, what exactly it is, what the importance is of it being correct, and how it is affected by other factors, like pipe size.
In this technical discussion we talk about Water Pipe Sizing, and the importance of calculating it correctly and the impact of it being done incorrectly.
In this technical discussion we share with you some safety tips about plumbing that you can share with your customers. We talk about Electrical Connections to Geysers and the risks associated with it being done incorrectly.
In this technical discussion we share with our audience a few safety tips around geyser mounting. These tips can be used by consumers and plumbers can share it with their customers.
This is another technical discussion in which we share safety tips that you can share with your customers. Remember, you are the expert, and by giving sound advice, in addition to delivering quality service, you establish lasting relationships with your customers.
This is another episode in which we share a few safety tips, or things to keep an eye out for regarding Geyser Overflows and Drip Trays.
This is another of a series of episodes in which we share safety tips with the consumer. In this specific episode, we discuss showers.
This is our first Safety Tips podcast that forms part of our normal technical discussions. And in this specific Safety Tips technical discussion, we talk about loose sanitary ware and the risks associated with it.
In this episode we have a discussion with Super Steve and Hurricane Herman about the PIRB's annual Champions 4 Charity Event, during which these two characters will face off in the boxing ring together with trained white-collar boxers and even two professional boxers. All in the name of charity.
In this episode we discuss the Non-Compliance that must be issued to the consumer when a plumber notices any non-compliant aspects of a plumbing installation when their on site.
In this episode we discuss the PIRB's new search function. We also feature a plumber, and announce the winners of the PIRB's recent Registration Renewal Competition. You'll also be able to view this podcast in video format on Youtube, the PIRB's very first VODcast.
In this episode we will have a conversation with two of the PIRB's staff members to discuss their journey toward their own growth within the PIRB and the development of their potential.
In a previous episode we discussed the exciting upcoming events hosted or held by the PIRB, and we briefly mentioned the PIRB's Roadshow for 2021. In this episode we will give you the finer details of when and where the PIRB's Roadshow teams will be, with the hope to see you there.
In this episode we will discuss a few exciting and interesting upcoming events that will be hosted or held by the PIRB during the next few months.
In this technical discussion, we will talk about issuing COCs for other people's work and what the risks are for licensed plumbers to do this.
In this episode we discuss the PIRB's Plumbers For The Future Project, alternatively known as the Schools Project, to determine what it entails and how it will benefit our youth, the industry, and the country.
In this episode we will have a technical discussion about vents or venting. Tune in to listen to this interesting conversation.
In this episode we will have a conversation with Mrs. Ronelle Pagel, of The Plumbing Lady, to discuss how she became a plumber in South Africa. August is of course Women’s Month, and we therefore wanted to give feedback on how one can (and should) become a plumber in South Africa – even if you are a woman.
In this episode we discuss the issuing of the Non-Compliance Notice, and the reasons therefor and the value thereof.
In this episode we will discuss the perception and reputation of the plumber and plumbing industry in South Africa. We will look at the current perception and reputation, and we’ll also discuss the need to restore the dignity and respect to the plumber and plumbing industry.
In this episode we will have a discussion about the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI), how it affects you and what you should know about it.
In this episode we will discuss Company Registration with the PIRB, and the benefits thereof for both the individual registered plumber and their company.
In this technical discussion we will have a conversation about Open Outlet Type Geysers..
In this episode we will have a conversation with representatives of South African Women in Plumbing.
In this episode we will have a technical discussion around PRV Overflow (Pressure Relieve Valve).
In this episode we will conversation with Mr. Ole Smith, to discuss the ultimate achievement of completing sufficient CPD activities in 24 hours to obtain the required 25 CPD Points.
In this episode we will have a technical discussion about pipe support. Although the requirements and importance of pipe support should be common knowledge, it remains one of the aspects in plumbing work that is most commonly found to be done incorrectly.
In this episode we will discuss the PIRB’s roadshow plans for the year ahead as well as the importance of the PIRB connecting with plumbers.
In this episode we will discuss developing yourself as a plumber even though the odds are against you. After having completed his trade qualification in 2021, at the age of 66, Mr. Jan Van der Westhuizen has overcome all odds to achieve a life-long dream for his career in the plumbing industry. Tune in to find out more.
In this episode we will discuss the relation between the PIRB and the consumer. We intend to determine why consumers should have an interest in the purpose of the PIRB and the role it fulfils in the plumbing industry, and why they should always ask for a COC.
In this episode we will discuss some of the technicalities associated with Solar System Design.
This episode is Part 1 of a conversation in which we discuss the new Plumbing 5-Year Strategy, as driven by the PIRB, IOPSA and various other stakeholders within the plumbing industry.
This episode is Part 2 of a conversation in which we discuss the new Plumbing 5-Year Strategy, as driven by the PIRB, IOPSA and various other stakeholders within the plumbing industry.
In this episode we will discuss waste pipe connections and some of the most commonly made mistakes therewith, as well as aspects thereof that can be considered to prevent issues therewith.
In this episode we will discuss the importance of World Plumbing Day, and how PIRB Registered Plumbers can actually get involved therein.
In this episode we will discuss your interaction, as a responsible plumber, with decision makers, and the importance of plumbers being involved in constructive discussions around the designs of buildings to make provision for compliant plumbing installations.
In this episode we will discuss how easy it is to do CPD in a short amount of time and why it is important to commit to keeping up with the industry.
In this episode we will discuss Angle Valves and some of the most commonly made mistakes with Angle Valves.
In this episode we discuss CPD and how easy it is to complete, as well as how one can manage one's time to complete these important CPD activities that ultimately keep you updated with what is going on in the plumbing industry. IMPORTANT NOTE: CPD points mentioned are subject to change, therefore visit our website to see the updated CPD menu: https://pirb.co.za/cpd-menu/
In this episode we will discuss water hammer, the causes and symptoms thereof, and what can be done about it.
This episode is Part 2 of a conversation in which we discuss Audits & Non-Compliance with representatives of both the PIRB and IOPSA.
This episode is Part 1 of a conversation in which we discuss Audits & Non-Compliance with representatives of both the PIRB and IOPSA.
This episode is Part 2 of a conversation with the Complaints & Liaison function of the PIRB, in which we discuss the process through which complaints can be logged and addressed. In stead of taking a punitive approach, the PIRB rather focusses on strengthening pride and accountability within the plumbing profession by promoting, monitoring and maintaining expertise and competencies among industry professionals, as well as working with the community to address concerns and resolve complaints about work carried out by plumbers.
This episode is Part 1 of a conversation with the Complaints & Liaison function of the PIRB, in which we discuss the process through which complaints can be logged and addressed. In stead of taking a punitive approach, the PIRB rather focusses on strengthening pride and accountability within the plumbing profession by promoting, monitoring and maintaining expertise and competencies among industry professionals, as well as working with the community to address concerns and resolve complaints about work carried out by plumbers.
This episode is Part 2 of a conversation in which we discuss Certificates of Compliance (COC), to find out what COC are, what the different types of COC are, who may purchase and issue COC, how COC are purchased and logged, as well as other very important and interesting facts regarding COC.
This episode is Part 1 of a conversation in which we will discuss Certificates of Compliance (COC), to find out what COC are, what the different types of COC are, who may purchase and issue COC, how COC are purchased and logged, as well as other very important and interesting facts regarding COC.
In this episode we will discuss Balanced Pressure, with the intent to determine what balanced pressure is, what the indications and implications of unbalanced pressure are, as well as how unbalanced pressure can be rectified.
In this episode we will have a conversation with the PIRB's Registration & Renewal Department to determine how and why plumbers should register with the PIRB, as well as how the registration process works, what the different designations are, and what happens when registrations are up for renewal or have expired.
In this episode we will discuss World Toilet Day. Although many people’s first reaction would be to find it humorous that such a day even exists, it is important to take into consideration that there are millions of people around the globe who do not have access to proper sanitation. Imagine not having the luxury of a properly functioning toilet. The mere thought certainly creates a whole new perspective, doesn’t it? The objective of this conversation is to determine what World Toilet Day is, why it came into existence, and in what way it can contribute to addressing both the global sanitation crisis and sustainable development in general.
In the first episode of The Professional Plumber Podcast we will discuss the PIRB's Induction Program. We will also discuss the motivation behind the idea for the PIRB to use podcasts as yet another exciting platform through which they can serve their registered plumbers and the plumbing industry as a whole.