Common Commercial Plumbing Issues and How to Solve Them

Caledonian Heating • 28 April 2023

From restaurants and eateries to museums, sports grounds and offices, it takes an awful lot of work to keep a business afloat. Not only does it require endless hard work and emotional investment, but it also takes a head for decision making and creative flare.

Of course, some things are simply not a matter of opinion. Whether it’s mid winter or the height of summer, properly functioning plumbing systems are absolutely essential. Commercial plumbing systems exist as a core component of any business or facility, providing the necessary water supply and waste removal for daily operations.

That said, commercial plumbing systems are no different to any other mechanical system. They can experience problems over time, causing disruptions to daily operations and potentially costly repairs. Fortunately, most issues are preventable and, with a little insight and professional support, you can help your business to stay on top of any issues.

Here at Caledonian Heating & Plumbing Ltd, we’ve compiled a guide to common commercial plumbing issues and how to solve them. In the following article, we’ll discuss some of the most common problems that arise with commercial plumbing systems and the most effective ways to address them.

Blocked Toilets & Drains

We thought we’d start with an obvious one; blocked toilets and clogged drains are among the most common problems in commercial plumbing systems. As you might have guessed, drains in commercial buildings are exposed to a much higher volume of waste. This includes everything from food particles and grease to bits of packaging, paper towels and oil. Over time, this debris can build up in the pipes, leading to slow drainage and potential backups. We’ll explore the other issues that can arise as a result of blocked drains shortly, but it is worth noting that they’re not so pleasant!

It’s not all bad news though. Regular drain cleaning and maintenance can help prevent clogs from forming. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our friendly team to discuss your commercial plumbing maintenance needs.

Foul Smells

As we mentioned above, a blocked toilet or clogged drain can have some rather unpleasant side effects. Foul smells are often a tell tell sign that something isn’t quite right. When food particles, grease, and other debris accumulate in a drain, their decomposition can cause an incredibly foul smell. Additionally, stagnant water in a clogged drain can allow bacteria to grow, which can also contribute to unpleasant odours.

That said, drains are not the only culprit when it comes to bad odour; toilets and similar fixtures can also contribute to foul smells in a building. If the seal around a toilet becomes worn or damaged, it can allow sewer gas to escape, leading to a real stench. Additionally, if a toilet is not flushed regularly or if it is not functioning correctly, it can allow bacteria to grow.

Leaks

We’ve all been there, minding our business when we notice a little drip from the ceiling, or a pool of water on the floor. The first reaction is often to panic, but locating the leak is crucial. Of course, leaks in commercial plumbing systems can occur for a variety of reasons, including corroded pipes, high water pressure, and improper installation. Water leaks can cause water damage, mould growth, and higher water bills. It goes without saying that this is bad news for your business; if a leak is not dealt with quickly and effectively, it can have serious financial repercussions.

Regular inspections and maintenance can help detect leaks early and prevent costly damage. In some instances, replacement of corroded pipes may be necessary; regular inspections can help identify areas where corrosion may be occurring.

Reduced Water Pressure

Of course, leaks and smells aren’t the only things that can go wrong with commercial plumbing systems. For businesses relying on water in kitchens or bathrooms, low pressure can cause serious issues. From hotels to kitchens, low water pressure can be a frustrating problem in commercial plumbing systems, causing slow or weak water flow. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to this problem as it can be caused by a variety of factors, including clogged pipes, leaks, and faulty pressure gauges.

That said, it is usually a simple fix for a specialist. A plumber will investigate the cause of the low water pressure by inspecting the pipes, valves, and fixtures to identify any blockages or leaks. Once identified, the necessary repair work and maintenance can be carried out. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and address these issues before they become a more significant problem.

Dripping Taps

Next up on our list are dripping taps. Though this may sound like a small problem, it can be an indicator of greater issues, such as blockages or frozen pipes.As is the case with any business, your facilities are a reflection of your business; though a leaky tap may be a minor inconvenience, it demonstrates a lack of attention to detail, so it’s definitely worth fixing.

There is usually a straightforward solution to a leaky tap and, with the help of a specialist such as ourselves, it can be fixed in no time.

Issues With Water Temperature

Another common issue that arises with commercial plumbing systems is inconsistent or uncontrollable water temperature. Commercial water heaters and boilers are designed to provide hot water to a large number of people, making them essential for many businesses. However, over time, sediment buildup and other issues can cause problems with these systems’ performance. This can spell disaster for businesses that rely on hot water for kitchens, guest bedrooms and toilets as running hot water is absolutely essential for both hygiene and comfort.

Frozen Pipes

Here in the UK, it’s safe to say that we’re accustomed to the colder months. Sure, there is nothing quite like a warm summer's day, but ensuring that your business is fully operational all year round is vital. During colder spells, frozen pipes can be a significant problem for commercial plumbing systems. The expansion and contraction of materials due to frozen water can cause pipes to burst, leading to water damage and costly repairs. To prevent pipes from freezing during the winter, it is important to keep them insulated and sealed from the outside.

Caledonian Heating & Plumbing Ltd: Commercial Plumbing Contractors

Whether you run a large hospitality business or an independent cafe, properly functioning plumbing systems are essential. Without running water, flushing toilets, working showers and accurate heaters, your business is not only at risk of violating hygiene regulations, but you could earn yourself a sub-par reputation.

Of course, things always go wrong at the most inconvenient times! That said, while you may not be able to prevent plumbing issues all the time, knowing who to call makes the world of difference. With the number of a fast, efficient and reputable plumbing and heating contractor in your phone, you can rest assured that issues will be dealt with in good time.

This is where we come in. At Caledonian Heating & Plumbing Ltd, we’re proud to serve clients in the Edinburgh and Dundee areas, providing high-quality heating and plumbing services to commercial clients across sectors. If you’re on the hunt for the very best in commercial plumbing services, look no further.

Get in touch with a member of our team to discuss your needs. Whether it’s an emergency repair or routine maintenance, we’re happy to help.

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