20 Latest Plumbing Industry Trends are Transforming 2025
May 30, 2025 - 26 min read
May 30, 2025 - 26 min read
| TL;DR: The plumbing sector is evolving fast, and rising customer expectations are leading the way. Labor statistics, water-efficient fixtures, economic shifts, and demand in commercial sectors are reshaping how plumbing companies operate. Staying competitive now means adapting smarter, faster, and more sustainably. |
The plumbing industry in 2025 is growing rapidly, with smarter tools, rising customer expectations, and new environmental regulations reshaping the landscape.
Notably, the global plumbing fixtures market was valued at $89.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2030, highlighting the sector’s significant expansion potential.
Plumbing companies are rethinking their operations.
Whether managing jobs through advanced plumbing software or adapting to sustainable solutions like greywater systems and low-flow fixtures, plumbing companies are rethinking their operations.
Plumbing companies are rethinking their operations.
Be it managing jobs through advanced plumbing software or embracing sustainable solutions like greywater systems and low-flow fixtures, they’re modernizing from the ground up.
But that’s not all. Other key trends, from labor shortages to tech-driven customer service and regulatory shifts, are also redefining what it takes to stay competitive.
In this guide, we’ll cover every practical layer from fixing leaking pipes on-site to using smart plumbing software that streamlines your entire operation.
Let’s examine the key trends, industry insights, and practical tools shaping the trade’s future.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Plumbing Industry Statistics & Shifts You Can’t Ignore
Among the top plumbing trends reshaping the industry, smart technology leads the way.
From Wi-Fi-enabled water heaters to app-based plumbing software, companies are streamlining dispatch, diagnostics, and invoicing, all in one place. These plumbing technology trends help businesses cut down manual effort and boost customer satisfaction.
Imagine a homeowner notices an unusually high water bill. Rather than guess, a technician uses a smart leak detector to find the issue within minutes, with no walls broken, no time wasted. And it is just one example of how tech is transforming operations on the ground.
According to recent plumbing industry statistics, the global market for plumbing fixtures and fittings is valued at $107.62 billion, growing at a 7.8% CAGR through 2028.
Meanwhile, the plumbing pipes segment alone is expanding at a CAGR of 14.69%: a clear signal that the plumbing industry is growing fast.
Being a plumber means mastering both tools and tech in today’s landscape.
For many, adopting smart solutions is not just a response to plumbing trends 2025, it’s a path to future-proof their business.
That’s why smart plumbing businesses prefer to switch to FieldCamp, your all-in-one field service control center.
With FieldCamp, you can:
✅ Auto-schedule jobs and dispatch your team in just a few clicks
✅ Keep customers in the loop with real-time updates
✅ Track job progress, team activity, and payments, all in one dashboard
✅ Send industry-specific invoices instantly without any paperwork or delays
✅ Access everything on the go, from any deviceFieldCamp is becoming part of the shift that plumbing companies are already making. As job sites become more dynamic and customer expectations evolve, having systems that work as hard as you do is no longer a luxury, it’s the new standard.
Every Minute You Wait, Someone Else Gets Hired First
With FieldCamp, you get to quote faster, schedule better, and close more jobs
As environmental concerns rise, one of the most noticeable trends in the plumbing industry is the shift toward sustainable systems.
From low-flow fixtures and water-saving toilets to greywater recycling, both customers and contractors are prioritizing eco-friendly choices.
Governments and green building codes are playing a major role too, encouraging plumbing companies to adopt solutions that reduce water waste and improve energy efficiency.
Here’s a quick look at key technologies shaping eco-friendly plumbing solutions:
| Eco-Friendly Solution | Benefit |
| Low-flow faucets & fixtures | Reduce water usage by up to 60% |
| Greywater recycling systems | Reuse water from sinks/showers |
| Tankless water heaters | Improve energy efficiency & longevity |
| Smart irrigation systems | Reduce outdoor water waste |
These sustainable solutions not only lower utility bills but also align with the future of plumbing, where conservation meets compliance and customer demand.
As highlighted in our landscaping industry trends guide, smart irrigation and eco-friendly service offerings are gaining momentum across home services. The push for eco-friendly offerings isn’t limited to lawns; it extends to the plumbing sector, too.
Environmental regulations are tightening, and plumbing companies must adapt quickly. From federal water efficiency standards to state-level green building codes, the pressure to comply is reshaping how plumbing systems are designed and installed.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced stricter guidelines around water consumption and fixture performance.
Products like low-flow toilets, water-efficient showerheads, and lead-free pipes are now more than customer preferences; they’re compliance essentials.
In states like California and New York, mandates around greywater reuse and energy-efficient plumbing systems are becoming more common.
For plumbing professionals, this means staying current with codes like the UPC and IPC, and choosing materials and layouts that meet modern efficiency standards.
These evolving regulations are not just challenges, they’re opportunities. Businesses that stay ahead of the curve can position themselves as trusted, future-ready service providers in a market that increasingly values sustainability and accountability.
As the economy shifts, so does the plumbing industry. Rising material costs, inflation, and interest rate hikes are influencing how both homeowners and businesses invest in plumbing services.
For many customers, essential repairs are prioritized, while large-scale remodels or upgrades may be delayed.
At the same time, plumbing companies are facing cost pressures of their own, especially around labor, fuel, and materials like copper pipes. These economic conditions demand tighter operational efficiency and smarter decision-making.
Yet, opportunity still exists.
With housing development rebounding in many regions and retrofitting projects on the rise, demand remains strong. Forward-thinking businesses are adapting by offering financing options, flexible scheduling, and tiered service packages to stay competitive.
Understanding market dynamics and responding with agility has become one of the top trends in the plumbing industry. It’s not just about surviving the ups and downs, but building a resilient business that thrives in any economic climate.
The plumbing industry is facing one of its biggest ongoing challenges: a shortage of skilled labor.As experienced plumbers retire and fewer young professionals enter the skilled trades, businesses are struggling to meet the growing demand, especially for jobs requiring specialized skills or advanced certifications.
According to recent plumbing industry statistics, the average age of a plumber in the U.S. is over 40, and the pipeline of new talent isn’t keeping pace with industry growth. This labor gap impacts project timelines, limits service capacity, and increases hiring competition.
In response, many plumbing companies are investing in apprenticeship programs, technical partnerships, and on-the-job training to upskill new workers. Others are turning to automation and plumbing software to reduce admin load and optimize team productivity.
The solution is not quick, but companies focused on workforce development today will be the ones equipped to scale, serve, and succeed tomorrow.
Customer expectations in the plumbing industry have evolved drastically.
Today, it’s not just about fixing a leak; it’s about how the entire service experience is delivered. From scheduling to follow-up, customers want a seamless, tech-enabled experience.
One of the major plumbing trends is the shift toward mobile-first service models. Customers want to book online, get reminders, receive live updates, and pay digitally. They also expect fast response times, upfront pricing, and real-time technician tracking.
This is where plumbing software becomes essential. Modern tools automate dispatch, streamline invoicing, and enhance communication, creating a smoother journey for both customers and technicians.
What Customers Expect vs. How Plumbing Businesses Respond
| Customer Expectation | Modern Plumbing Business Response |
| Easy online booking | Service scheduling via website or mobile apps |
| Real-time job updates | Live SMS/email alerts powered by dispatch software |
| Transparent pricing | Instant digital estimates and clear service packages |
| Contactless communication | Messaging tools, virtual consultations |
| Digital payments & invoices | Mobile payments, auto-generated receipts |
| Trust & professionalism | Licensed techs, branded apps, real-time tracking |
Research shows that 73% of customers prioritize experience over price when choosing a service.
In the plumbing industry, where urgency is common, delivering convenience and clarity builds long-term trust and leads to repeat business and referrals.
One of the strongest plumbing industry trends right now is service diversification. Plumbing companies are expanding beyond pipe repairs to offer HVAC, water filtration, and smart tech services.
Why? Because customer demand is changing, and the numbers back it up.
According to a 2023 Allied Market Research report, the global smart plumbing market is projected to surpass $8 billion by 2028, while demand for home water filtration systems is growing at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2022 to 2030.
These trends show a clear shift: homeowners want more value from fewer service providers.
Here are some of the top services plumbing businesses are adding:
By offering bundled, tech-forward services, plumbing businesses can increase average job size, improve retention, and position themselves as all-in-one home system specialists.
Efficiency is everything in today’s plumbing industry, and prefabrication is becoming one of the most practical solutions. Instead of building everything on-site, more plumbing businesses are embracing factory-assembled pipe systems, valve modules, and bathroom pods that arrive ready to install.
This trend is especially strong in commercial projects, multifamily housing, and modular construction. Prefab plumbing cuts down labor time, reduces material waste, and minimizes errors, key advantages in an industry still facing labor shortages.
According to a McKinsey Global Institute report, off-site construction methods can reduce total build time by up to 50% and cut labor costs by 20%. That’s a serious advantage for plumbing contractors under pressure to deliver faster, safer, and at scale.
Benefits of prefabricated plumbing systems:
Adopting prefabrication does not improve operations, it also helps plumbing businesses take on larger, more complex projects with confidence and control.
In today’s competitive landscape, a strong digital presence is no longer optional for plumbing businesses; it’s essential.
According to a 2023 BrightLocal survey, 87% of consumers use Google to evaluate local service providers, and 76% of users trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
So, if you’re not showing up online with the right content, search visibility, and reputation, you’re missing the bulk of your potential leads.
Plumbing companies that opt for digital marketing are not just getting more website traffic, they’re booking more jobs, building brand authority, and creating consistent revenue streams.
Whether you’re a solo operator or scaling a multi-location company, visibility is what drives growth.
To truly compete, your strategy should cover five key areas:
Digital marketing makes you credible, helpful, and accessible. In an industry where urgency meets trust, your online presence can be the single most powerful tool to grow your plumbing business.
Among the top trends in the plumbing industry, diagnostic technology is becoming a game-changer.
Gone are the days of trial-and-error; today’s tools allow plumbers to detect and solve problems faster, more accurately, and without unnecessary damage.
From thermal imaging cameras that locate hidden leaks behind walls to sewer inspection cameras that snake through drains to show live footage, tech-backed tools are transforming how plumbers work.
Devices like acoustic leak detectors, pressure gauges, and digital moisture meters are also standardizing smarter diagnostics.
According to research, the plumbing fixtures and diagnostics equipment market is projected to surpass $134 billion by 2028, driven largely by innovation in detection and monitoring systems.
Why it matters:
Advanced tools not only improve efficiency but also build customer trust. When clients can see the problem and understand the solution, they’re more likely to approve work and leave positive reviews.
As sustainability becomes a priority for homeowners, builders, and regulators alike, water-saving solutions are taking center stage in the plumbing industry.
Customers today are more aware of their water consumption, and they expect plumbing systems that help reduce it without compromising performance.
Fixtures like low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads can reduce water usage by up to 60%.
Meanwhile, greywater recycling systems allow water from showers, sinks, and laundry to be filtered and reused for irrigation or toilet flushing, an especially valuable solution in drought-prone areas.
This trend isn’t just about saving the planet, it’s also about meeting building codes.
According to the EPA, water-efficient plumbing fixtures could save 700 billion gallons of water annually in the U.S. alone. And with more cities offering rebates and green certification incentives, adoption is rising quickly.
Water-efficient solutions on the rise:
Smart irrigation systems that adjust based on weather data
Incorporating these technologies positions plumbing companies as forward-thinking and eco-conscious, qualities today’s customers actively seek out when choosing service providers.
A large portion of North America’s plumbing infrastructure is decades old, some systems still rely on corroded galvanized pipes, inefficient layouts, or outdated components.
As buildings age, plumbing retrofits are becoming one of the fastest-growing service areas in the industry.
In the U.S. alone, over 35% of housing stock was built before 1970 (U.S. Census Bureau), meaning millions of homes are due for upgrades. Issues like low water pressure, pipe corrosion, and outdated water heaters are pushing property owners to seek modern solutions.
For plumbing companies, retrofit work offers high-value opportunities:
Why retrofitting is trending:
Retrofit work is also a great time to upsell smart plumbing solutions, bundling repairs with water-saving or tech-enhanced upgrades. For plumbing professionals, these projects aren’t just repairs, they’re long-term value builders.
As climate risks rise and health regulations grow stricter, plumbing systems must do more than move water. They now need to prevent contamination, withstand extreme weather, and ensure long-term durability.
Modern plumbing companies are being called to adapt, especially in regions facing floods, droughts, or heat waves.
Climate-resilient solutions like backflow preventers, sump pumps, and elevated system designs are being integrated to safeguard both infrastructure and occupants.
On the health side, aging pipes and stagnant water lines can create risks for lead exposure, Legionella, or mold buildup.
The response?
Touchless plumbing fixtures, anti-scald valves, and real-time water quality monitoring are now entering both commercial and residential plumbing jobs.
Key trends in health- and climate-conscious plumbing:
The modern plumber isn’t just fixing flow, they’re helping homes and buildings stay safe, hygienic, and prepared for environmental challenges.
Modern plumbing isn’t just about replacing old pipes, it’s about using better ones. As material science and building standards evolve, plumbing professionals are adopting new types of piping that improve performance, durability, and installation efficiency.
Among the most notable shifts is the transition from traditional galvanized steel or copper to cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). PEX is flexible, corrosion-resistant, and faster to install, making it ideal for both residential and commercial retrofits.
According to industry reports, PEX piping now accounts for over 60% of new residential plumbing installations in the U.S.
Materials like CPVC and HDPE are gaining popularity for their ability to handle high heat and resist chemicals, making them ideal for specialty plumbing systems.
These materials also contribute to improved water efficiency and reduced energy loss, especially when used in insulated hot water delivery lines.
Smart plumbing layouts are evolving. Many professionals now prefer manifold systems over traditional trunk-and-branch setups, offering direct lines from a central panel to each fixture.
This not only improves flow balance but also enables faster isolation of issues when maintenance is required.
Key benefits of smarter materials & system designs:
Adopting these new materials and layouts isn’t just about saving time, it’s about building plumbing systems that are longer-lasting, more energy-efficient, and easier to service in the future.
With the rise of video calls and app-based services, remote consultations have emerged as one of the most practical innovations in the plumbing industry.
Especially during post-pandemic shifts and rising customer demand for convenience, virtual diagnostics are helping plumbing businesses save time, qualify leads, and provide immediate value, without ever stepping on-site.
Using video chat, screen-sharing tools, and customer-uploaded photos or videos, plumbers can visually assess leaks, clogs, or fixture issues. This allows for faster triage, more accurate upfront estimates, and even the ability to guide customers through minor DIY fixes when appropriate.
Industry reports show that virtual consultations can cut on-site travel time by up to 25%. This lets technicians focus on complex jobs and emergencies, while also building trust with customers who value transparency and quick expert advice.
Use cases for virtual plumbing diagnostics:
Virtual consultations don’t replace hands-on work, but they’re becoming a valuable step in the service funnel. For plumbing companies, it’s a way to optimize dispatch, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction from the very first interaction.
Modern plumbing companies rely on both skill and data. By tracking productivity and response times, top teams use industry stats to make smarter, faster decisions.
With the rise of smart technology and digital platforms, plumbing professionals can now access detailed performance analytics.
This includes job completion rates, lead response times, seasonal trends, service history, and profitability by job type. By analyzing this data, businesses can adjust staffing, improve customer follow-ups, and identify which plumbing services are the most profitable.
This shift toward data-informed decision-making is especially powerful for smaller, local businesses that want to compete with larger service networks.
And when it comes to quoting jobs more efficiently and accurately, some businesses are going a step further, using tools like AI to assist.
If you’re exploring that route, check out our breakdown of how ChatGPT can streamline plumbing estimates and improve communication.
Want a quick video instead? Check this out:
What kind of data drives smart plumbing decisions?
By leaning into real-time business data, plumbing companies can grow with clarity, reduce operational guesswork, and stay agile in a rapidly changing service economy.
Plumbing issues rarely wait for payday, and that’s why offering customer financing has become a key differentiator for modern plumbing companies.
From full system retrofits to emergency replacements, flexible payment solutions are helping customers say “yes” faster, without compromising on service quality or budget.
According to industry research, more than 60% of homeowners delay necessary plumbing work due to upfront costs. By offering payment plans, low-interest financing, or third-party integrations, companies make services more accessible while increasing overall job value.
| Before Financing | After Financing |
| High customer drop-off after seeing an estimate | Increased conversions on high-ticket jobs |
| Customers delay or avoid urgent plumbing repairs | Faster approval → Faster project initiation |
| Limited to upfront payments only | Multiple payment options (EMI, 0% interest plans) |
| Perception of service as expensive or inaccessible | Builds trust and affordability perception |
| Missed opportunities for upselling services | Customers are more open to upgrades and add-ons |
Tip: Use built-in tools in your plumbing software to show financing options during on-site visits or virtual consultations.
This strategy isn’t just for large contractors. Local plumbing businesses are increasingly adopting financing tools built right into their plumbing software, allowing them to present instant financing options alongside estimates.
Why financing matters more now:
In today’s plumbing market, giving customers room to breathe financially can translate directly into higher close rates and repeat business, especially in competitive, cost-sensitive regions.
The plumbing industry is more than homes; commercial spaces like schools, offices, hospitals, and warehouses are driving significant demand. As these spaces grow more complex and regulated, the need for specialized plumbing solutions is rising fast.
Businesses now look for plumbing professionals who can handle large-scale systems, install smart toilets and touchless fixtures, and ensure compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Those offering commercial retrofits, routine service contracts, or water-saving installations are seeing stronger, more predictable revenue.
For plumbing companies, branching into nonresidential projects is smart and strategic.
It opens access to higher-value clients, larger project scopes, and repeat maintenance contracts that keep the business steady year-round.
As global construction surges and urbanization accelerates, plumbing businesses are finding new growth opportunities beyond local borders.
Emerging economies, smart city developments, and green building initiatives are creating demand for skilled plumbing contractors and system specialists in new regions.
From Southeast Asia to the Middle East, there’s a growing need for energy-efficient plumbing systems, waste management integration, and scalable designs for high-rise buildings. Plumbing manufacturers and contractors that offer prefabricated plumbing systems, low-flow fixtures, and smart toilets are especially well-positioned to win international contracts.
Additionally, global demand is pushing product innovation, creating opportunities not just for service providers but also for those involved in plumbing materials manufacturing and distribution.
For ambitious plumbing companies, expanding into international markets (or even supplying to global developers) can mean bigger contracts, diversified revenue, and brand positioning as a modern, export-ready service provider.
You must maintain your certification and keep up your skill development in the ever-changing plumbing sector of today. Up-to-date training ensures that you satisfy current codes, client requirements, and new technological standards, whether you are leading a growing team or working alone.
Most regions now require ongoing certification for plumbing professionals. This includes safety protocols, energy efficiency guidelines, and material handling standards. Courses on smart plumbing systems, greywater setups, or new code requirements can give your business an edge.
Trust plays an important role here; withholding professional development will attract customers easily. This shall reflect the reassurance from a client that the deal is being dealt with by someone serious about the trade.
For plumbing businesses, investing in team training leads to better job quality, fewer callbacks, and long-term retention of skilled workers. In a competitive industry, knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you can offer.
The plumbing industry is at a turning point, where innovation, regulation, and rising customer expectations converge. Once rooted in manual labor, plumbing is now a tech-driven, sustainability-focused profession.
As trends move toward low-flow fixtures, touchless technology, and energy-efficient installs, businesses must upgrade both their tools and operations.
We also recommend that you check out our insightful conversation about the future of the plumbing industry here:
Adopting plumbing software, smart filtration systems, and data-backed solutions helps deliver faster, more compliant service.
But innovation goes beyond gadgets. It’s about streamlining workflows, meeting environmental standards, and offering what today’s customers want—transparent pricing and climate-conscious solutions.
In a time of economic shifts, supply issues, and growing water demands, success will belong to companies that stay informed, agile, and connected.The plumbing industry is flushing out the old ways.
The question is: Are you still tightening bolts while others are tapping screens?
Consumers and building codes are both driving demand. People want more control, automation, and water efficiency, especially in newer flushing toilets, leak detection systems, and heat pump–integrated water heaters. As customers expect faster service and more insight into water usage, plumbers who offer app-connected devices, voice-activated fixtures, or automated alerts are more likely to win jobs.
The outlook for plumbers remains strong, especially for those who upskill in areas like smart plumbing technology, heat pumps, and digital service tools. With a rising shortage of qualified workers, tradespeople with modern certifications and advanced system knowledge will be in high demand, both on the job site and in project management roles. Adapting to modern tools and customer expectations is key to staying competitive.
The plumbing market is growing. Despite temporary slowdowns in some sectors, demand continues to rise due to aging infrastructure, population growth, and increased focus on energy-efficient upgrades. Local businesses that evolve their offerings with smarter systems and customer-focused service models are seeing steady growth in both residential and commercial sectors.
The future of the plumbing industry is shaped by environmental sustainability, technology adoption, and shifting regulatory demands. With increasing attention from the Environmental Protection Agency, modern plumbing is about repairs and helping homeowners and businesses save water, reduce energy use, and stay compliant with evolving standards. The next chapter belongs to those who are prepared to lead it.
The global plumbing fixtures and fittings market is valued at $107.62 billion, and it’s set to grow steadily with a 7.8% CAGR through 2028. Add in the rapidly expanding plumbing pipes sector with a projected 14.69% CAGR, and it’s clear this isn’t just a traditional trade anymore. Growth is fueled by demand across residential spaces, remodeling projects, smart water systems, and aging infrastructure upgrades. Whether you’re a solo contractor or part of a large local business, the plumbing market offers serious potential.
AI is transforming the plumbing industry by automating and optimizing key tasks. It’s used to streamline job scheduling, generate instant service estimates, predict equipment failures, and handle customer support efficiently. By reducing manual admin work and boosting accuracy, AI helps plumbing businesses deliver faster, smarter, and more personalized service. With FieldCamp, you get AI-powered tools built specifically for plumbing pros, helping you assign jobs, manage schedules, and stay on top of every task with ease. Book a demo to see FieldCamp in action.
