10 Best Plumbing Books Every Contractor Should Read in 2026

Plumbing books are a valuable resource for beginners as well as seasoned plumbers who want to sharpen their skills. 

These books provide practical methods and insights straight from industry experts themselves. Learn from them and you can grow your plumbing business, solve specific on-the-job challenges, and improve efficiency.

In this blog, we’re presenting the best plumbing books of 2026, including the ratings, price ranges, and what to expect from each book.

We’ll also show you how the right software complements ‘book learning,’ helping you put proven practices into action more efficiently.

What Are the Best Plumbing Books in 2026?

There’s a wide range of plumbing books that cater to various skill levels and interests, from foundational training to advanced code compliance and even some with historical insights.

Here are 10 of the best plumbing books for contractors, alongside their main focus, target audience, star ratings, and price, listed in the table below:

1. Plumbing Trainee Guide, Level 4

Star rating (Amazon): No rating yet. 

Price range: $98.99 (Kindle) – $137.22 (Paperback)

This is the 5th edition of the Level 4 Plumbing Trainee Guide from NCCER (National Center for Construction Education & Research), published by Pearson Education in November 2024. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Core skills to install, test, service, and repair plumbing systems across residential, commercial, and public sectors.

• Techniques for advanced systems like hydronic heating, water recirculation, and solar plumbing setups.

• Enhanced critical thinking for on-the-job decision making.

This guide wraps up the NCCER’s four-level plumbing program. It’s well-illustrated and includes insights from experienced plumbers. There are also quizzes and extensive modules for hands-on practice.

2. Plumbing Complete: Expert Advice From Start to Finish

Star rating (Amazon): 4.4/5 Stars (193 Reviews)

Price range: $15.67 (Kindle) – $34.99 (Paperback)

Written by Rex Cauldwell, Plumbing Complete: Expert Advice from Start to Finish was published by Taunton Press in August 2009. It spans 256 pages and serves as a practical reference for both DIYers doing simple plumbing projects and professionals dealing with more complex installations.

What you’ll learn: 

• Tools and techniques you need for every plumbing project level. 

• How to work with supply lines, drain and vent systems, and how to handle clogs and repairs effectively. 

• Step-by-step instructions with clear photos so even tougher jobs feel doable. 

Master plumber Rex Cauldwell brings real-world clarity to complex plumbing tasks. Organized visuals and easy navigation make this book a solid tool for anyone who wants to read, learn, and act in the field.

3. Residential Construction Academy: Plumbing

Star rating (Amazon): 4.9/5 Stars (38 Reviews)

Price range: $86.49 (Kindle) – $192.33 (Paperback)

The 2nd edition of Residential Construction Academy: Plumbing was published by Cengage Learning in partnership with the Home Builders Institute and endorsed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). It’s part of their Residential Construction Academy Series. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Step-by-step methods for residential plumbing installation based on national skill standards.

• Tools of the trade, proper safety measures, and strategies to boost on-the-job productivity.

• Green practices, creative layout approaches, and troubleshooting techniques for real-world jobsite conditions.

This 640-page book bridges technical training with fieldwork through visual and organized instruction. It’s a preferred choice for anyone who’s mainly looking to refine their residential plumbing skills and meet industry standards.

4. International Plumbing Code (International Code Council Series)

Star rating (Amazon): 4.7/5 Stars (77 Reviews)

Price range: $118.93 (Kindle) – $130.59 (Loose Leaf)

Published by the International Code Council (ICC) in 2024, this edition of the International Plumbing Code reflects ICC’s digital transformation strategy with a modernized layout and improved accessibility. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Minimum safety and performance standards for designing and installing plumbing systems. 

• New rules for emerging systems, such as buried piping support, tracer wire for sewer lines, and high-efficiency flow limits. 

• Accessibility standards drawn from ICC A117.1 are now embedded in the code, making it one of the most complete available. 

The 2024 IPC is the definitive reference in local and international plumbing practice. It combines updated content with a streamlined design. QR codes and an enhanced layout help contractors find code sections quickly.

5. 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code

Star rating (Amazon): 4.5/5 Stars (35 Reviews)

Price: $100 (Paperback)

Published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) in 2023, the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code is the 8th edition created under the ANSI Consensus process and officially recognized as an American National Standard. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Updated requirements, including provisions for tileable shower kits, flow-reducing fittings, all-gender facilities, well water tanks, and appliance condensate handling. 

• New appendices covering non-sewered sanitation, inspector and installer qualifications, tiny house plumbing rules, and plumbing for indoor horticulture. 

• How the ANSI-accredited consensus process shapes a code that balances proven safety standards with room for new technologies.

It is a full-scope, consensus-driven code that balances public health standards with room for innovation. It’s a main reference for anyone working on plumbing design, installation, and inspection. 

 6. PHCC Educational Foundation’s Plumbing Series

Star rating (Amazon): 5/5 Stars (4 Reviews)

Price: $125.95 (Paperback)

Plumbing 101, 7th edition, published in 2024, is the first in a four-book apprentice series by the PHCC (Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association) Educational Foundation and Edward T. Moore. It’s written to mirror real-world work experience, introducing essential concepts early and revisiting them in greater depth as you progress. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Key plumbing foundations: history, codes, safety, and plumbing principles. 

• Essential tools, plumbing math basics, sketching, and blueprint reading. 

• How your skills fit into long-term career growth in the trade. 

The book covers both residential and commercial plumbing, with expanded sections on daily tasks, codes, and career paths. It’s a handy entry point for apprentices—simple where it should be, detailed where needed, and built to grow with you as you gain field experience.

7. Plumbing 1-2-3

Star rating (Amazon): 4.5/5 Stars (178 Reviews)

Price range: $24.95 (Hardcover)

Plumbing 1-2-3 is a homeowner’s manual from The Home Depot that turns intimidating plumbing tasks into approachable, step-by-step projects. It covers quick fixes to full installations, with more than 90 projects reviewed by professionals for accuracy.

What you’ll learn: 

• How to tackle common repairs, replacements, and upgrades around the house. 

• Step-by-step finish and rough-in plumbing techniques. 

• Knowing when to DIY and when to call in a pro. 

This is an approachable, all-in-one guide for homeowners, covering installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. It’s a trusted DIY companion that makes plumbing less intimidating and more satisfying.

8. Plumbing a House

Star rating (Amazon): 4.3/5 Stars (88 Reviews)

Price range: $28 (Kindle) – $32 (Paperback)

First published in 1994 (Taunton Press), Plumbing A House by master plumber Peter Addison Hemp was republished in 2021. It's part of the ‘For Pros by Pros’ series and lays out realistic steps for setting up plumbing systems in new or remodeled homes. 

What you’ll learn: 

• How to design, size, and install plumbing systems using common tools and materials. 

• A sequence of step-by-step methods to help plumbing systems perform reliably over time. 

• Hands-on advice drawn from real trade experience, useful for both homeowners and professionals.

This book focuses on the trade and provides steady instruction from a seasoned plumber. Drawing on 40 years of experience, Hemp breaks down the often-confusing parts of designing and installing residential plumbing into an easy-to-follow guide.

9. Flushed: How the Plumber Saved Civilization

Star rating (Amazon): 4.2/5 Stars (113 Reviews)

Price range: $11.93 (Paperback) – $34.26 (Hardcover)

If you’re looking for a fun, educational read, W. Hodding Carter IV’s 2006 book Flushed: How the Plumber Saved Civilization delivers (reprinted in paperback in May 2007). 

What you’ll learn: 

• How plumbing shaped civilizations, from the Indus Valley to modern society. 

• The engineering behind ancient systems like Roman lead pipes and London sewers, served with wit and historical insight. 

• Why the seemingly mundane (and occasionally messy) parts of plumbing matter, and why they’re worth celebrating. 

Through stories, travels, and humor, Carter shows how pipes and toilets have shaped the world. It’s a lighthearted but insightful nod to a trade that keeps civilization running.

10. The Complete Guide to Home Plumbing

Star rating (Amazon): 4.6/5 Stars (156 Reviews)

Price range: $14.99 (Kindle) – $29.99 (Paperback)

Edited by Cool Springs Press with contributions from Chris Peterson, the 8th edition of The Complete Guide to Plumbing was released in February 2023. It comes from the Black & Decker Complete Photo Guide series and walks you through a wide range of plumbing tasks with complete images and instructions. 

What you’ll learn:

• How to tackle everyday projects like replacing a toilet and setting up a curbless shower.

• Installing and troubleshooting fixtures and appliances like vanities, garbage disposers, and jetted tubs.

• Techniques that support accessibility standards and universal design.

This book brings DIY plumbing to life with vivid visuals and detailed instructions. It tackles common tasks head-on and gives you confidence knowing they all meet current codes and design standards. 

Looking for More Plumbing Books?

In search of guides on the business side of plumbing? Or looking to sharpen your technical skills? 

Here are more plumbing books worth considering:

• The PVC Pipe Book: Published in 2018 by Chris Peterson, this book highlights PVC pipe as a versatile building material for over 50 projects. 

• Plumbing For Dummies: Written by Gene and Katie Hamilton, this straightforward guide covers 40 common household plumbing tasks. Best for homeowners and those interested in starting in the field. 

• Planning Drain, Waste & Vent Systems: Howard C. Massey’s manual is essential for those designing or installing DWV systems, covering codes, traps, vents, materials, and detailed plan drawings. 

• Profitable Plumbing: Written by Matthew Gregg, this 2004 business guide shows plumbers how to increase earnings through better customer service, upselling, and plumbing inventory management.

• The Pipe Fitters Field Book: This pocket-sized reference by Gerhard Nerenberg packs in charts, formulas, pipe specs, rigging info, and trade signals for technicians needing quick answers on-site.

Whether you’re tackling repairs, learning codes, or managing a plumbing business, these books offer practical knowledge you can use right away.

What Books Follow Current Plumbing Codes?

Staying updated with the latest plumbing codes is essential for compliance, safety, and efficiency in the field.

The best books that follow up-to-date plumbing codes are listed below:

• International Plumbing Code: Published by the International Code Council (ICC), this comprehensive codebook outlines the minimum regulations for plumbing facilities. It also incorporates provisions from the ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard.

• Code Check Plumbing & Mechanical: Now in its 6th edition, this illustrated guide provides a concise overview of the 2021 International Residential Code and International Mechanical Code. It’s made for quick reference, highlighting common code violations and offering simple explanations.

• Uniform Plumbing Code: Developed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), this latest edition includes updated provisions for water supply, drainage, and fixture requirements. 

These books are essential for plumbers, contractors, and inspectors who need to stay current and make sure every installation meets the latest safety and code requirements.

What Are the Best Plumbing Books for Beginners?

Starting out in plumbing work can be daunting, but the right resources can make all the difference. 

The best plumbing books for beginners are listed below:

• Ultimate Guide: Plumbing: This comprehensive manual offers step-by-step instructions for over 800 plumbing projects. Updated to meet the 2024 National Plumbing Code standards, it features detailed diagrams and ‘Green Solutions’ for eco-friendly practices.

• Plumbing For Beginners: A comprehensive guide that walks readers through common plumbing tasks like sink installations and toilet repairs. It offers clear instructions and is suitable for homeowners and entry-level technicians looking to handle basic plumbing issues.

• Plumbing: This book introduces key plumbing skills with a strong focus on health and safety. It covers pipework, drainage, water systems, and maintenance and includes practical exercises, chapter quizzes, and real-world applications. 

When looking for beginner-friendly plumbing books, always look for ones that detail instructions, include visual aids, and provide code-compliant guidance.

What Plumbing Books Explain Troubleshooting Techniques?

Knowing how to troubleshoot saves time, prevents repeat visits, and builds trust with clients.

The best plumbing books for troubleshooting are listed below:

• Residential Construction Academy: Plumbing: Covers rough-in down to final testing, focusing on troubleshooting leaks, drainage problems, and system failures. It combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in actual residential construction.

• The Plumber’s Troubleshooting Guide: This book is organized by problem type, such as fixtures, drains, pumps, and heaters, so you can quickly find solutions. Written by an experienced contractor, it’s no-nonsense and perfect for on-the-job reference.

• Plumbing Instant Answers: Designed as a quick-reference manual, it includes a whole section on troubleshooting for piping, water heaters, pumps, and many more. It’s especially useful for technicians who need fast solutions without wading through long explanations.

Good plumbers fix issues. But great plumbers can find problems before they get worse. These books should be able to help technicians of all levels gain confidence and practical troubleshooting skills.

Where Can I Buy Plumbing Books?

Knowing which plumbing books you need is only half the job. The other is finding a reliable place to get them. 

Here are the best options for buying plumbing books:

• Amazon: Huge selection of titles, easy ordering, and fast delivery. Double-check third-party listings to avoid overpriced shipping.

• Local Bookstores: Let you browse and compare books in person. The overall selection may be smaller and some prices higher, but you support your local community. Many stores can also special-order what you need.

• Trade and Specialty Websites: Sites like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors’ Association (PHCC) often have technical titles at good prices and may include extras like training materials or online communities.

Pro tip! There are lots of other learning options. Add YouTube tutorials, plumbing blogs, trade groups, and professional events to stay current and continuously improve your skills.

Beyond Books: Tips For Every Plumbing Contractor

With the best plumbing books, you and your team can master the trade while keeping the industry’s top practices front and center. 

And as a contractor, field service management books may cover the essentials, but you’ll need a lot more when running a profitable plumbing business. 

The right technology boosts efficiency, enhances customer experience, and gives your team the tools to perform at their best in the field.

ServiceTitan’s Plumbing Business Software is designed for plumbers to work more efficiently with powerful AI integrations, deliver standout customer experiences, control costs, and grow seamlessly—all within one platform.

Customers may not know the technical details of their plumbing job, but they notice the experience, from scheduling and confirmations to follow-ups and service completion.

ServiceTitan’s key features include:

• Automated job confirmations and SMS reminders: Reduce no-shows and last-minute cancellations.

• Live mapping and in-platform messaging: Track technicians in real time and stay responsive to traffic, truck issues, or unexpected tasks.

• Web scheduling and chat widgets: Give customers convenient ways to book and communicate.

Good dispatch management is equally essential to keep technicians efficient. But this can be hard to do on spreadsheets alone, especially when routes change, last-minute cancellations happen, or multiple jobs overlap.

ServiceTitan’s Dispatch Software helps plumbers get to jobs faster, cut unnecessary travel time, and keep technicians productive on every route.

Smart scheduling assigns each job smoothly, while in-app messaging keeps the office and field teams in sync, so surprises on the road don’t slow down service.

ServiceTitan’s Pricebook Pro further empowers technicians with a centralized pricebook.

Field staff can present professionally to clients with ease:

• Localized pricing

• Visually engaging estimates

• Resources that close more sales

When you equip plumbers with ServiceTitan, you elevate their impact and capture more revenue opportunities.

Essential tools for your plumbing business go beyond books. Find out why with a ServiceTitan demo.

Once your technicians have the know-how from the leading plumbing books, ensure they have the resources they’ll need to complete jobs smoothly and deliver stellar customer service.

ServiceTitan is an industry-leading business management platform built for plumbing companies to work smarter, move faster, and grow profits. Smarter dispatching, real-time customer updates, and powerful sales tools for the field keep your operations sharp and your revenue strong.

Book a demo today and see what ServiceTitan can do for your plumbing business.