Do you own a commercial business? If so, you know plumbing problems can happen anytime. Don’t worry, as this article covers the eight most common commercial plumbing issues and their solutions. From clogged drains to broken toilets, you’ll find the answers you need to keep your business running smoothly. Discover how to address each issue quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to serving your customers.
Table of Contents
Clogged Drains
One of the most common commercial plumbing issues is clogged drains. Clogs can occur in all types of drains, such as kitchen sinks, showers, and toilets. Clogs can be caused by a variety of things, including food waste, hair, grease, and even toilet paper. Clogs can cause backups in the system, leading to overflows and standing water, and can also cause damage to pipes.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent and address clogs. First of all, professional commercial plumbing installation is a must-do action. Secondly, drain screens can be installed to prevent food and other debris from entering the system. Also, regular maintenance of the drains, such as the use of drain cleaning products and the use of a plunger, can help address clogs as soon as they occur. If the clog is more serious, it may be necessary to call a professional to clear the pipe with a snake or other tools.
Leaky Pipes
Fixing leaky pipes is critical for maintaining a healthy commercial plumbing system. Leaky pipes can cause water damage, mold growth, and a variety of other problems in a commercial building. Pipes often leak due to corrosion, age, or a loose connection. To prevent water damage, it is important to identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs. If the leak is due to corrosion, it may be necessary to replace the entire pipe. If the leak is due to a loose connection, it may be possible to simply tighten it. It is also important to check for any other leaks, as they can cause further damage if left unchecked. By addressing the issue quickly and taking the necessary steps to fix the leak, you can help protect the integrity of your commercial plumbing system.
Malfunctioning Water Heaters
Identifying and repairing malfunctioning water heaters is an important part of maintaining a healthy commercial plumbing system. Common issues include inadequate hot water supply, water temperature fluctuations, and water leakage. To diagnose and address these issues, a qualified plumber may:
- Inspect the water heater to determine the cause of the malfunction
- Replace faulty components, such as the temperature and pressure relief valve
- Flush the tank to remove sediment and other debris
- Install a new thermostat to regulate water temperature
Taking the time to diagnose and repair malfunctioning water heaters can help businesses ensure their plumbing systems are running efficiently and safely. While there are some differences between commercial and residential commercial water heaters, investing in regular maintenance and repair services is a great way to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Low Water Pressure
You can often fix low water pressure problems by identifying the cause. Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, such as clogged or corroded pipes, faulty plumbing fixtures, water main issues, and more. A plumber can assess the issue, and determine the cause. In cases where a water main issue is to blame, the local water authority should be notified. If it is a plumbing fixture, the plumber can often replace the fixture to improve the water pressure. If the cause is clogged pipes, the plumber can clean the pipes to improve the water pressure. Lastly, if the pipes are corroded, the plumber can replace them. By determining the cause, a plumber can help restore the water pressure and get your business back up and running smoothly.
Burst Pipes
When dealing with burst pipes, you’ll need to act quickly. It’s important to identify the source of the leak and shut off the water source right away. Then, it’s best to seek professional help as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
Here are a few solutions for dealing with burst pipes:
- Inspect the pipes for signs of corrosion, wear and tear, and potential leaks.
- Replace damaged and corroded pipes with new ones.
- Make sure all pipes have proper insulation to prevent freezing.
- Install a water pressure regulator to ensure that the water pressure does not exceed a safe level.
Frozen Pipes
Recognizing frozen pipes in a commercial property can be a challenge, but with the right measures, you can prevent them. Frozen pipes are a common plumbing issue in colder climates, and can cause costly and time-consuming repairs. To avoid frozen pipes, start by checking insulation around all exposed pipes and replacing as needed. Additionally, make sure to open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, and consider leaving the heat on at a low temperature even when the property is unoccupied. Lastly, make sure to disconnect all outdoor hoses, as they can freeze and cause pipes to burst. With these simple measures, you can help protect the pipes in your commercial property from freezing and bursting.
Broken Toilets
When it comes to broken toilets, you’re likely to encounter a wide variety of issues in a commercial setting. These problems can range from clogs and leaking seals to cracked porcelain and broken parts. Here are a few of the most common issues and their solutions:
- Clogs can easily be remedied with a plunger or a plumbing snake.
- A leaking seal can be fixed by replacing the seal with a new one.
- Cracked porcelain can be repaired with the help of a professional plumber, or a porcelain repair kit.
- Broken parts can be replaced with new parts bought from a hardware store or plumbing supply store.
No matter the issue, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Working with an experienced plumber can help you get to the root of the problem and find the most cost-effective solution.
Slow-Draining Sinks
If you’re encountering slow-draining sinks in your commercial setting, you’ll need to take action to get them running properly again. This issue is often caused by a clog in the pipes, which can be caused by buildup of grease, food particles, and other debris. To resolve the issue, you need to inspect and clean the pipes. This can be done by using a plunger or a drain snake or auger. If the clog is further down the line, you may need to use chemical drain cleaners. If the clog is too far down the line, you may need to contact a professional plumber to help. It is important to take action as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring. With the right knowledge and tools, you can quickly and safely get your commercial sinks flowing again.
