Large Commercial Building Plumbing Maintenance
Commercial plumbing systems are more complex and designed to handle a much larger load than residential ones.
Commercial plumbing systems are more complex and designed to handle a much larger load than residential ones. Therefore, owners and facility managers of large commercial buildings should ensure that the plumbing system always stays in peak condition to avoid inconveniences, disruptions, and disasters.
Regular maintenance by a qualified plumber keeps the plumbing systems of large commercial buildings like malls, hospitals, retail centers, or offices working at their best. Here is an extensive commercial building plumbing maintenance checklist to ensure all its critical components like drains, pipes, water heater, and valves are running smoothly:
Active leaks
Leaks are among the commonplace plumbing issues. They can happen anytime, anywhere, and sometimes go unnoticed until the situation worsens. Therefore, checking for active leaks is vital to commercial plumbing maintenance. Keep an eye out for signs like puddles, water spots, moisture, and mold and address them to avoid water wastage and costly water damage.
Drain clogs
Drains are a crucial part of every plumbing system. Clogged or slow drains are more than a nuisance and can cause flooding and significant property damage. Test the flow rate of all the drain lines in the building and inspect them regularly. A plumber can go for a camera inspection to look for clogs and other issues and use techniques like hydro jetting and power rodding to remove clogs and restore proper functioning. Regular drain inspection is especially essential for old buildings.
Rust or corrosion
An easy way to prevent more significant plumbing issues down the road is to check the pipes for signs of corrosion. The plumbing maintenance checklist should also include inspecting the faucets and showerheads for limescale buildup. Consider pipe replacement by a professional commercial plumber if there are signs of rust or corrosion.
Water pressure
Always check the water pressure as a part of plumbing maintenance. The water pressure of large commercial buildings should stay between 40 and 80 psi. Both high and low water pressure is terrible for a plumbing system. High water pressure can damage the plumbing system and cause leaks and pipe bursts, while low water pressure can frustrate the inhabitants, resulting in complaints. In multi-story buildings, usually, the lower floors receive high water pressure, and the pressure lowers on the upper floors.
Water heater
A large commercial building may have different types of water heaters. Inspect all the water heaters for leaks and proper temperature. Also, test the safety valve and overflows for correct functioning. Flush the system annually as preventative maintenance and check the anode rod.
Backflow testing
Large commercial buildings have backflow prevention devices. Experts recommend annual backflow testing of these devices to prevent the wastewater from flowing back into the building and causing cross-contamination.
Valve efficiency
Different valves are used in a commercial plumbing system to regulate or shut off water flow. The plumbing maintenance checklist should also include checking the valves for proper and reliable functioning. Replace any broken or damaged valves immediately.
Protect the building
Schedule regular preventative maintenance by a trusted local plumbing contractor. Professional plumbers can inspect the plumbing of large commercial buildings for aging, corrosion, wear and tear, and other possible issues and take corrective measures which go a long way towards ensuring the safety of all the occupants and minimizing significant defects.
Call Adaven Plumbing at 702-766-3320 for affordable and lasting sewer cleaning and repair, gas lines, shower valves and trim, pressure regulators, and preventative maintenance solutions.
