Top 5 Most Commercial Plumbing Problems & How to Fix Them
Plumbing problems will not come to you announcing their arrival. Commercial spaces are a big problem when keeping a check on all plumbing areas. A sudden plumbing issue can cause a ruckus at a commercial property. And the worst part is, you may not be ready to handle the situation. Oh, the problem does not end here; you will be facing customer dissatisfaction, monetary loss, and unnecessary hazards. That is why we are going to talk about the top 5 commercial plumbing problems and how to fix them efficiently.
1. Blocked Drains
When it comes to blocked drains, it happens to the commercial places severely due to the excessive level of food waste, kitchen waste, soap scum, hair from public washrooms. All of these are serious components in clogging the drain pipe.
Solution:
With the first sign of drain clogging, try plunging to resolve the blockage. However, if it does not work, hire a professional plumber who knows about drain snakes or hydro-jetting to clear the pipe. In case of a serious condition, seek CCTV drain inspection services from your licensed plumber. For further prevention, you can opt for regular maintenance and install drain strainers.
2. Leaking Taps & Toilets
A constant water dripping sound is not just annoying, but also water wastage. It will lead to damaging the wall and floor, along with increasing the water bill. Furthermore, in commercial places, like cafes, restaurants, and hotels, the water dripping issue can be a downside for your business.
Solution:
Check the washers or seals to fix the leaking tap. If the washer or seal is worn out or broken, replace them. In some cases, you may need to replace the entire toilet mechanism. So, it’s better to seek professional plumbing inspection from a registered agency.
3. Hot Water System Failures
Hot water issues are another thing that you may need to keep in check in hotels, salons, medical centres, and restaurants during the peak seasons. The issues can be from thermostat problems, tank corrosion, or pilot light failure.
Solution:
First, check the pilot light and reset the entire system for gas units; in case of electric systems, inspect the power source, reaching the heater. If it’s still cold, you will need a gas plumber to fix the entire setup. Make sure to hire a qualified plumber who knows about Australian regulations for commercial hot water systems.
4. Low Water Pressure
Another common problem in commercial plumbing is slow water flow, especially in showers, kitchen sinks, dishwashers, and salons. The problem increases if it’s a multistory building.
Solution:
Clean the sediment buildup in aerators and clean them out. After cleaning, if the problem persists, there is a possibility of pipe corrosion or a leak. Call your professional plumber and restore the pressure safely.
5. Burst or Leaking Pipes
The Australian climate is highly diverse, making the old galvanised pipes burst or leak. If left untreated for a while, leaking pipes with water damage and mould are quite common in commercial places.
Solutions:
If identified at the right, stop the water supply right away, and call a licensed plumber immediately. The experts will check whether the pipe is repairable or needs replacement. To avoid such incidents, make sure to get your commercial properties inspected annually.
Regular plumbing maintenance and inspection are the only way to save your reputation and business. By taking the matter seriously and hiring the best plumbers for the job, one can easily maintain the business plumbing units.
Common Signs Of Plumbing Problems
Toilets & Urinals
- Frequent Clogging: Recurring blockages may indicate pipe obstructions or sewer line issues.
- Phantom Flushing: When toilets flush on their own, it could be a sign of a worn flapper or leak.
- Water Running Continuously: Points to valve issues or internal leaks, wasting water.
- Odours or Sewer Smell: Could signal a broken seal or venting issue.
Sinks & Faucets
- Slow Drainage: Often caused by a buildup of debris or grease in the pipes.
- Leaky Faucets: Worn-out washers or corroded valve seats can lead to persistent dripping.
- Low Water Pressure: Could be due to clogged aerators or underlying pipe problems.
- Discoloured Water: May indicate rust in pipes or contamination in the water supply.
Water Heaters / Boilers
- Inconsistent Water Temperature: Failing heating elements or thermostat issues.
- Noisy Operation: Banging or popping sounds can suggest sediment buildup in the tank.
- Water Leaks Around Unit: Indicates corrosion, cracks, or faulty pressure relief valves.
- Rising Utility Bills: May reflect inefficiency or overworking due to hidden issues.
Pipes & Drainage Systems
- Visible Water Stains or Damp Walls: Signs of hidden pipe leaks.
- Mould or Mildew Growth: Persistent moisture due to unnoticed leaks or poor drainage.
- Unusual Sounds (gurgling/bubbling): Could indicate venting issues or clogs in the drainage.
- Sewage Backups: A major warning of a blocked or broken sewer line.
Grease Traps (for kitchens in commercial spaces like restaurants)
- Strong Foul Odours: Usually a sign that the trap needs to be cleaned.
- Overflow or Backflow: Indicates blockage or a full trap.
- Slow Sink Drainage: Suggests grease build-up is restricting flow.
Backflow Prevention Devices
- Water Discolouration: A potential indicator of cross-contamination.
- Reduced Water Pressure: This can mean the backflow preventer is malfunctioning or clogged.
- Visible Leaks: Damaged backflow preventers may cause visible water leaks.
Commercial Sprinkler Systems
- Leaking Heads or Pipes: Wastes water and may damage landscaping or property.
- Erratic Water Pressure: Points to valve or supply issues.
- Failure to Activate: Could mean electrical or mechanical faults in the system.
Commercial Dishwashers / Laundry Units
- Standing Water: Indicates drainage issues or pump failure.
- Leaks During Operation: Worn gaskets, hose cracks, or connection issues.
- Improper Cleaning: Suggests poor water flow, low pressure, or heater malfunction.
Conclusion
In commercial spaces, plumbing issues can escalate quickly, disrupting operations and increasing costs. The top five problems, clogged drains, leaky faucets, running toilets, water heater malfunctions, and low water pressure, are commonly caused by wear, poor maintenance, or buildup in the system. Timely identification and professional repairs are key to preventing costly damage. Regular inspections, using quality fixtures, and prompt leak detection can significantly reduce these issues. For persistent problems, hiring a licensed commercial plumber ensures safe and lasting fixes. By addressing these plumbing concerns proactively, businesses can maintain hygiene, comply with regulations, and avoid service interruptions that impact daily operations.