Commercial buildings are active areas where numerous people rely on efficient plumbing systems for daily operations, from washing hands to using the bathroom. However, like any complex system, the plumbing in the building is susceptible to many issues that can disrupt workflow. According to OSHA regulations, all workers must be allowed access to potable water — so, if the plumbing system is acting up, businesses will lose employees as they must leave the premises.
The following are common issues that will break down a commercial building’s pipes, and possibly clog up not only the building’s drains but the business’s workflow.
Leaky Fixtures and Pipes
Leaks within plumbing systems and pipes are not only wasteful but may also cause damaging water issues to the building’s structure and interior areas. In commercial settings where water consumption is quite high, minor issues and leaks can translate into substantial financial losses over time.
Low Water Pressure
Having low water pressure is just annoying, whether it impacts a homeowner or an employee within a commercial building. Low water pressure in a commercial building can impede many tasks such as cleaning, flushing of toilets and even irrigation around the property. This issue may happen because of factors like faulty pressure regulators, mineral build up in the pipes, and insufficient water supply from the city source. Identifying the cause of low water pressure is critical in the restoration process, so that optimal water pressure will return to the building to ensure the smooth operation of plumbing usage within the facility.
Clogged Drains and Sewage Lines
One of the main issues that causes problems for commercial plumbing systems is clogged drains and sewage systems. Commercial buildings have heavy usage of toilets, sinks, kitchenettes and outside areas using water. With heavy usage by employees within the building, it is inevitable that grease and grime will get into the pipes, leading to backups within the system.
These issues don’t just happen in a day; it takes time but will happen. These backups lead to slow drainage, odors coming from drains and, in severe cases, sewage backup. Hiring professional plumbers for regular maintenance of the plumbing system, such as inspections of pipes and drain clearing and cleaning, will help identify issues within the pipes, resolving any current issues and preventing problems before they become serious and expensive issues.
Water Heater Issues
Water heaters are critical in commercial buildings as they provide the hot water necessary to meet government regulations and allow occupants hot water to wash their hands. However, hot water heaters are prone to having issues that may require a professional plumber to solve. Common water heater issues include sediment buildup, thermostat problems, sacrificial rod and faulty heating elements. Having a professional plumber regularly check the system, including inspecting the wiring of elements, will help prolong the lifespan of the water heater and minimize any disruptions to the system.
Water Softening Systems, Scale Prevention
Many areas throughout the country, especially within large cities, have hard water that is full of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can pose a significant risk to plumbing systems. Speaking from 25 years’ experience in the industry, Constantin Geambasu, owner of Water Rehab located in Gilbert, Arizona, says all commercial buildings should install a water softening system to ease the strain on their plumbing systems. “Installing water softening systems can help cut down on issues caused by hard water by removing minerals that cause scaling within the plumbing system of commercial buildings,” he says. “Hiring a professional plumber to maintain your water softening system will help replenish salt levels and clean resin tanks, which is critical for their effectiveness of protecting the system from mineral buildup.” Filtration systems are also beneficial as they help remove harmful chemicals from the water. According to Geambasu, “Adding a water filtration system to your plumbing will help reduce the content of chlorine and other harmful chemicals in the water.”
Commercial building owners must prioritize maintenance and repairs to cut down on plumbing issues. The longer these problems last, the more money owners will have to pay in the future for repairs. Fixing problems as they arise will not only cut down on costs but maintain the safety of those working in the building.
Staying vigilant and proactive when it comes to plumbing issues, commercial building owners and managers can ensure the functioning of the plumbing systems within their buildings to minimize disruptions to work operations.
Joe Hammer is owner of SAK Electric & Plumbing Inc. in Phoenix, which has been providing professional commercial plumbing services to the Greater Phoenix area for more than three decades.
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