In contrast to residential systems, commercial plumbing systems are under much more pressure and are often subject to heavy use, making them more prone to break down. If dealt with quickly, minor issues are likely to be easy to resolve. If plumbing repairs are postponed, the resulting damage will likely lead to costly expenditures down the road.
Like residential plumbing problems, commercial plumbing issues never seem to happen at a convenient time. The issues must receive prompt attention, so facilities are in good working order for tenants and occupants. A licensed commercial plumbing contractor can address a variety of plumbing needs efficiently and cost-effectively. Additionally, while plumbers are on-site, they can proactively inspect other parts of the system to help prevent future issues.
Here are five of the most common commercial plumbing problems:
Clogged Storm Drains
A clogged storm drain can cause a real emergency situation in a commercial building. The storm drain is designed to drain rainwater away from parking lots, sidewalks, and the building itself. A buildup of debris can compromise the system, causing costly flood damage in the building. A scheduled annual inspection and cleaning by a qualified inspector prevents unexpected backups and ensures that everything is functioning properly. All debris, foreign objects, and sediment should be removed from the drain, catch basin, and lift stations. The inspection will identify problems such as cracks, intrusion of tree roots, and collapsed lines. Many municipalities have ordinances requiring property owners to maintain their stormwater management facilities.
Clogged Drains
Buildings with commercial kitchens often have problems with clogged drains. Food particles, grease and coffee grounds can clog sink drains and dishwasher lines. Grease traps need to be cleaned periodically. While homeowners may be willing to try a DIY fix at home, a commercial plumber is better equipped to handle clogged drains in commercial facilities.
Damaged Pipes
A high-water bill may indicate water is leaking from a damaged pipe. The leak may or may not be visible, and leaks inside the walls are known as silent leaks. These leaks can cause structural damage and promote mold growth. A commercial plumber will be able to locate and repair the damaged pipe.
Sewer Odor
A sewage smell coming from the pipes is not a welcome smell. U- traps can become clogged and inhibit the normal flow of water. These clogs can cause unpleasant odors to be emitted from the drain. A commercial plumber can locate the root cause of the odor and clear any clogs they find.
Hot Water Issues
Defective hot water heaters can wreak havoc on facilities and their tenants. If the water is not heating quickly, there may be a faulty heating element or a broken thermostat. If the water is too hot, the thermostat needs to be adjusted. Odd noises coming from the water heater may indicate sediment build-up that needs to be flushed out.
Hot water heaters should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis by a commercial plumber to prevent issues before they disrupt your facilities.
Choosing a Commercial Plumber
Be sure to work with an experienced licensed plumber. At McKenney’s every member of our team is trained to help with all your commercial plumbing needs. We service businesses in the metro Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC areas. Contact us to learn more.