Commercial plumbing systems are larger and more elaborate than residential ones; thus, if their early warning signs are left unchecked, they are sure to cause bigger problems. Correct identification of potential plumbing issues before they get out of hand is important in averting expensive repairs and disruptions to your business operations. Detection of such signs can save not only time and money but also promote a smooth workflow. The following article identifies some of the signs and symptoms of commercial plumbing issues and how promptness can be attached to it.
Low Water Pressure
One of the very first signals that will provide an indication of a probable problem in plumbing for a commercial building is low water pressure. If one or more faucets, toilets, and other water fixtures have weak water flow, then that may act as a signal for bigger trouble lying underneath. This may be because of several reasons: leakage, blockage in the pipes, or even due to sedimentation within the system. This may lead to further destruction when this indication is overlooked, which might affect business operations. Therefore, the situation needs to be checked by a professional plumber to determine the causative agent of this problem and curb further complications.
Unusual Pipe Noises
Noises from your pipes, such as banging, rattling, or gurgling, can indicate deeper issues within your commercial plumbing. Noise problems may come from what is termed water hammer, which involves a jolting halt in the flow of water to make loud banging sounds. This indeed can occur due to inadequately secured pipes or perhaps some kind of pressure problem. Gurgling noises, on the other hand, may signal an issue related to the clogging or poor venting of the plumbing system. When these rumbling noises are heard, be wise and get someone to have a look since neglecting such problems might lead to pipe damage or even flooding.
Frequent Clogs or Slow Drains
While infrequent blockages may happen in any plumbing system, frequent blockages or perennially slow drains in commercial establishments point out a bigger problem. Events that can cause clogged drains in buildings with heavy traffic flow, such as restaurants, offices, or hotels, stem from a gradual build-up of grease, debris, and undigested waste in the pipes. For example, if you noticed that several drains within different parts of your building were not working properly, that might be a sign of something more serious going on with the main sewer line. This can prevent chances of further backup, pipe bursts, or flooding by consulting a plumber early enough.
Foul Odors from Drains
A foul smell from your drains is a sure indication that something is wrong with your commercial plumbing system. Bad odors usually mean that there is some trapped food waste, grease, or debris in the pipes that can act as a starter to cause clogs or sewer backups. In the worst cases, the reeking odors could be due to a fractured or ruptured sewer line that will allow sewer gasses to break free. These odors should be dealt with straight away to keep you and your family from health risks and further destruction to your plumbing infrastructure.
Wet Spots or Water Stains
Obvious wet spots, water stains, or perhaps standing water where it shouldn’t be seen are all indications of an element of plumbing leak. These leaks can come from the pipes behind the walls, underneath the floors, or from the plumbing system on the roof. Be aware that a minor leak, if not deterred, could cause large-scale water damage that may, over time, affect your commercial building structurally. Adding to this, leakages may include serious charges on your water bills. Regular inspections and rectification of the leaks the moment they are detected can save one from further major issues.
Sudden Increase in Water Bills
An unexpected increase in the water bill without an equal consumption of the same becomes a surefire guarantee that something may be going on with your plumbing system, such as a hidden leak. Since commercial buildings use a good deal of water, an undetected leak can result in unexpectedly high costs. Pay attention to your water bills month after month, and when there is an increase that you do not understand, have a professional plumber inspect the system for leaks, malfunctioning fixtures, or inefficient appliances. If these problems can be caught early on, it will save your business an enormous amount of money over time.
Discoloration of Water
Water coming through your faucets may possess a brownish or rusty tint due to corrosion in your pipes. Discolored water is usually an indication of pipes deteriorating and may lead to a leak or pipe burst. Of course, this is more important in a commercial setting that relies on clean water to operate, such as restaurants and healthcare facilities. Rusty pipes don’t only have the potential to raise safety concerns in your water supply, they can also be quite costly when needing to replace them in the case of a burst. However, early detection and replacement of the compromised pipes can avoid water contamination and a plumbing disaster altogether.
Early detection of problems in commercial plumbing contributes to an environment that is assuredly safe, functional, and cost-effective. From low water pressure to strange noises, foul odors, or water damage visible on the wall, if you are able to address all these issues before they get out of hand, you can save your business from really costly repairs and also a lot of wasted time. Also, know when to call in a professional plumber; monitor your plumbing system, and don’t waste any time trying to fix it yourself. That way, it will be able to provide years of efficient service to you with regular maintenance and timely action.
