How to Prevent Common Commercial Plumbing Problems
Running your business smoothly on a daily basis involves a lot of time and effort on your part, and unexpected plumbing problems can add lots of extra stress to your already busy day. The best way to lower your risk of plumbing issues is through prevention! Here are some of the most common commercial plumbing problems and how to prevent them:
Plumbing Issue #1 – No Hot Water / No Water Pressure
Causes: water heater pilot light is out, has a bad thermocouple or gas valve, or has a rusted burner
Prevention: Having your water heater checked and maintained yearly by a professional will help ensure your water heater stays in good shape. If the technician sees the burner rusting or a part going bad, you can have the water heater repaired before things get worse and water temperature or pressure unexpectedly drops.
Plumbing Issue #2 – Clogged Toilets
Causes: too much waste or inappropriate items being flushed, hard water mineral deposits, drain line issues
Prevention: Post signs in your restrooms that warn visitors against flushing items that should not be flushed. Flush waste and toilet paper separately when necessary. Use a water softener if your building has hard water.
Plumbing Issue #3 – Sewer Odors
Causes: damaged drain line, dried out drain trap
Prevention: Have your plumbing checked regularly by a professional. Have old drain lines and drain traps replaced as they age.
Plumbing Issue #4 – Clogged Drains
Causes: grease or soap build-up, excessive food waste
Prevention: Use noncorrosive bacterial drain cleaner on pipes at the end of the day when plumbing will no longer be used for the night and allow as much time as possible for it to work through your plumbing system. Avoid dumping grease or oil down the drain – instead, collect them in a jar and dispose of the jar in the trash when full.
Plumbing Issue #5 – Leaking Fixtures
Causes: rust and corrosion, faulty faucets, too much water pressure
Prevention: Make sure your fixtures are replaced when they reach old age, and consider PVC plumbing when replacing pipes as the material does not corrode. Adjust water pressure when necessary.
Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating is an Eldersburg plumbing contractor dedicated to providing honest service and quality workmanship to all of our commercial and residential customers throughout the state. We do our best to assist you in preventing plumbing issues but are also available 24/7 in case of emergencies that aren’t as easy to prevent.
Contact us today for more information on the plumbing services we offer.
