When it comes to plumbing systems, it is best to have a proactive approach. Regular maintenance, an inspection of pipes for damage and wear and tear, and check for leakages and water pressure are critical elements of plumbing maintenance. But all of this becomes far more important when dealing with the plumbing fixtures at a commercial facility.
Whether it is a hospital, a commercial office building, or a mall, the potential damage from the failure of plumbing fixtures is huge compared to a residential unit. This is because the plumbing system in a commercial facility is far more complicated and interconnected and plumbing fixtures malfunctioning in one area can result in significant damage to the entire facility. Therefore, you must schedule regular plumbing maintenance and resolve plumbing issues before creating havoc in your commercial facility.
If you are not sure how to get started, here is a checklist that you can use when scheduling maintenance plumbing. While specific plumbing needs may vary from building to building, the plumbing basics do not change much, so this checklist is an excellent point to start. Let's take a look at six things to check during commercial plumbing maintenance.
Leakage
Leakages might seem like a trivial problem, but in reality, it is one of the biggest threats to the structural integrity of any building. Untreated leakages lead to stains and damage to the paint on walls. It can also cause mold growth, and in the case of a commercial facility, widespread molds are often challenging to treat. In case, of an industrial unit, leakages can have far more devastating consequences.
Therefore every preventive plumbing maintenance must include an inspection for active leaks. One of the possible ways to identify leaks is to physically examine the walls and ceilings and locate wet spots and mold growth. Apart from physical examination, a professional plumber must also run tests for leakages by shutting down the entire facility's water supply. In case the water meter continues to run despite the closure of the water supply, it is an indication of a leakage in the building.
Part of leak detection will also include signs of previous leakages. In case the wet spot has already dried, it is best to take a look at the plumbing structure as it must have been damaged or corroded. Ideally, all damaged plumbing fixtures must be repaired or replaced. However, only a professional plumber can give you the right advice.
Signs of Corrosion
It is only natural for plumbing fixtures to corrode over time. Whether it is the faucet in the bathrooms or pipes under the sink, all plumbing fixtures are prone to wear and tear. Therefore, the examination of signs of corrosion should be an essential aspect of plumbing maintenance. By looking at the state of your plumbing fixtures, only a professional plumber can guide you on whether to replace them or repair and continue to use them. Since commercial facilities have a lot more plumbing fixtures and regularly replacing or repairing these fixtures might seem like an expensive affair, in the long run, plumbing maintenance is one of the best ways to save plumbing costs.
Water Pressure
In a commercial facility, the water pressure should not be higher than 80 PSI or lower than 40 PSI. Water pressure that is too high might damage the plumbing fixtures, including pipes, toilets, water heaters, and angled stops. In case the water pressure is too low, the water may not reach the desired outlets and lead to inconvenience. In tall commercial buildings, with multiple stories, it is common that the water pressure is lower of the upper levels while it is too high on the lower levels.
To save your plumbing fixtures from damage, it is best that a professional plumber checks and adjusts the water pressure in your commercial facility. This ensures that your plumbing fixtures remain safe, and you can get the right water pressure at all levels of your building.
Drains
When too many people use the same plumbing fixture, it is only natural for drains to clog. A clogged drain is a serious plumbing problem that can result in flooding and damage to the property. And while it is a plumbing concern, it is also a severe health hazard. During preventive maintenance, it is best to have a test for all your drains' flow rate. Also, go for a camera inspection to examine the state of your drains. In case your drains are clogged, professional plumbers have the right equipment to fix the clogs. Moreover, if your drains need repair or replacement, you can get it done as part of maintenance.
Operation of Valves
When valves are not regularly used, they may get stuck, and while it is common in a residential unit, it is also a common concern in a commercial facility. During preventive maintenance, it is best to check all the valves and make sure they can easily rotate. Moreover, all broken and damaged valves should be repaired or replaced. This ensures that all the valves in your building are working properly, and it is easy to run off the water supply in case of an emergency.
Backflow Testing
Another major plumbing area that needs maintenance is backflow testing. Almost all commercial facilities have at least one backflow device installed to prevent cross-contamination and does not allow the sewage water to flow back into the building. All backflow devices need inspection at least once a year. You can rely on a professional plumber to inspect your backflow device, but you can also contact a commercial backflow test professional. In either case, the goal is to ensure that your backflow prevention device is fully functional.
Call a Professional
In a commercial facility, it is best to schedule preventive maintenance at least once every two months. A proactive approach can help you identify plumbing problems quickly. And when problems are identified early, the solution is not just simple but is also less expensive. So what are you waiting for?
If you want to schedule preventive maintenance for your commercial facility, contact Mesa Plumbing. We offer a wide range of preventive maintenance services, including testing, adjustment, replacement and cleaning. To schedule preventive maintenance for your commercial facility, call now at 480-832-1660 or visit our website.