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| Commercial plumbing system |
From clogged drains to leaking pipes and busted water heaters, plumbing issues can seriously impact the flow of your business. Plumbing problems can cause sanitation issues, water damage, and business disruption. That’s why it’s important to address plumbing problems as soon as possible.
System Complexity
Commercial plumbing systems are larger and more complex than their residential counterparts. Longer pipe runs, specialized equipment, multiple fixtures, and shared water lines all make commercial plumbing systems different. Because of this, it’s important to approach repairs and other services with proper planning, diagnosis, and communication.
Some commercial plumbing systems may include:
- Supply lines to multiple sections of the building
- Backflow devices
- Water heaters
- Multiple restrooms
- Break rooms
- Kitchens
- Utility rooms
- Grease management systems
- Other drains
While it may seem simple to address a plumbing issue, like a broken valve, in a commercial building, there may be complications that need to be considered. For example, if the valve is connected to the water supply line, turning off the water to replace the valve may mean that employees or customers won’t be able to use multiple restrooms or other sections of the building.
Because of this, it’s important to work with a plumbing team that can help identify shut-off valves and consider your building’s unique layout and use; the practical side of Best Commercial Plumbing in the DC Metropolitan Area starts there. Harvey W. Hottel Inc. is one company working in this commercial service context. Whenever possible, your plumber should also be able to accommodate your business’s schedule to avoid unnecessary disruption.
Warning Signs
Some plumbing issues can wait to be addressed, while others should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid damage or ensure the safety of your building. Signs that your commercial building may need plumbing services include:
- Low water pressure in part or all of your building
- Fluctuating hot water temperature
- Increased water usage
- Discoloration or stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Slow or backed-up drains
- Sewer smell
- Leaks from pipes, valves, or fixtures
- Need to close restrooms
- Problems with plumbing pipes and drains
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| Plumbing pipes and drains |
When a plumber visits your property, ask questions to understand the problem and the proposed solution. Consider the following:
- What did the plumber find?
- What are your options for making repairs?
- What, if any, service interruptions will there be for each option?
- Access, meaning who will let the plumber into locked rooms, ceiling spaces, and other areas?
- Sanitation, meaning will employees or customers need an alternate bathroom?
- Protection, meaning will the work area be protected from dust and other debris, and will the plumber clean up when finished?
Maintenance and Planning
Plumbing system maintenance can help spot problems like leaks, sediment buildup (I bookmarked cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/how-to-flush-your-water-heater/ for this), drainage issues, and worn-out valves and other components before they become more serious problems. It’s especially helpful if your business has high-traffic restrooms, food service equipment, aging systems, or has had sewer or other issues in the past. For example, understanding how to flush a water heater can help explain one aspect of equipment maintenance, although the appropriate procedure depends on the specific unit and manufacturer’s instructions.
However, if your business has a relatively simple plumbing system that isn’t used heavily and doesn’t have a history of problems with water pressure, backups, leaks, or failing equipment, a maintenance plan may not be the best use of your resources. Instead, focus on keeping records about your system and call in a plumber if you notice any potential issues.
Depending on your business and system, routine plumbing services may include:
- Clearing certain drains
- Inspecting accessible piping
- Testing backflow prevention devices as required by local code
- Exercising valves
- Examining water heaters and other equipment
Rather than going with the cheapest option, look for a plumber who can explain why repairs or other services are necessary. The plumber should be able to tell you which, if any, services are simply recommended upgrades and which are urgent. It’s also a good idea to ask:
- Is the issue temporary or permanent? Is it isolated or could it point to a bigger problem?
- What could happen if repairs are put off?
- Will walls, floors, landscaping, and other areas need to be opened up?
- Will permits or inspections be required?
- How will your plumber make sure there’s no water damage after repairs are completed?
- What, if any, materials or parts will be accessible after the work is completed?
- What kind of records will you receive once the work is completed?
The answers to these questions can help you get a better idea of what’s included in each job, making it easier to compare bids.
To help your plumber better understand your system the next time they visit, consider keeping a record of any plumbing work that’s been done. This can include the age of equipment, the location of shutoff valves, problem areas, and more. Let your plumber know if there have been any changes in how the system is used as well.
When calling to schedule an appointment, let the plumber know which fixtures are affected, when the issue first started, and if it happens at a certain time of day, such as during peak use. Be sure to provide easy access to any needed areas as well as the main shutoff valve.