Running a business is hard work. There are so many things to worry about. Making sure you have enough sales to keep the doors open, hiring the right employees, and keeping your books in order are all your responsibility. But as any business owner knows, another important aspect of keeping your business running smoothly is maintaining your property and infrastructure. This means keeping your building in good repair, your grounds tidy, and your plumbing in working order. Here are some common plumbing issues that businesses may run into.
1. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains occur when a build-up of debris, such as hair, soap scum, or grease, blocks the flow of water. This can cause water to back up in the sink, shower, or toilet. Clogged drains can also lead to sewage overflows, which can contaminate drinking water and spread disease. To prevent clogged drains, businesses should regularly clean their pipes and fixtures. They should also avoid putting things down the drain that can cause blockages, such as coffee grounds or cooking oil. If a business does experience clogged drains, it is important to call a professional plumber to clear them.
2. Leaks
Leaks are one of the most common issues that businesses face. Leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, such as wear and tear, faulty installation, or damage to pipes. Whatever the cause, leaks can lead to serious problems, such as water damage, mold growth, and wasted water. Thankfully, there are a few things that business owners can do to prevent and fix leaks. First, it is important to have regular maintenance performed on your plumbing system. This will help to identify any potential problems before they become major issues. Second, if a leak does occur, it is important to call in a professional quickly to repair the problem to minimize the damage.
3. Sewage Backups
Sewage backups occur when raw sewage and wastewater flow back into your business through the drains. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including a blockage in the main sewer line or a failed septic tank. Sewage backups can cause significant damage to your property and put your employees at risk of exposure to harmful bacteria. In addition, sewage backups can lead to a loss of customers since they result in unsanitary conditions.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent and fix sewage backups. By regularly inspecting your sewer lines and maintaining your septic tank, you can help avoid the costly and disruptive problems associated with these backups.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaky pipes, corroded pipes, or a blocked water line. When water leaks from a pipe, it decreases the amount of water available to flow through the system. This decrease in available water results in lower water pressure. Low water pressure can cause a number of problems, such as reduced productivity, increased wear and tear on pipes and fittings, and decreased customer satisfaction in restaurants and other service businesses.
To prevent low water pressure, it is important to have a licensed plumber inspect your system and make any necessary repairs. In addition, regular maintenance such as flushing the pipes and checking for leaks can help to keep your system running smoothly and prevent low water pressure from becoming a problem.
5. Frozen Pipes
The cold weather can cause the water in the pipes to freeze, which can lead to a number of problems. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly repairs. They can also block the flow of water, which can lead to problems both up and down the line. Frozen pipes can prevent water from reaching vital areas of your business, such as restrooms.
To prevent frozen pipes, it is important to insulate your pipes and keep them warm. In freezing weather, you should allow a trickle of water to flow through the pipes so that they do not freeze solid. If you do have frozen pipes, it is important to contact a professional plumber who will thaw them out slowly so that they do not burst.
6. Sudden Spikes in Water Pressure
The causes of sudden spikes in water pressure can be diverse, ranging from leaky pipes to faulty pressure regulators. These sudden spikes in water pressure can be detrimental to both plumbing systems and appliances. High water pressure can cause pipes to burst or break as well as damage seals and gaskets in appliances. To prevent sudden spikes in water pressure, it is important to have a well-maintained plumbing system with properly functioning pressure regulators. If your business does experience a sudden spike in water pressure, it is essential to shut off the main water supply and call a professional plumber for assistance.
7. Sewer Odor
Sewer odors can occur when fixtures are not vented properly, when there is a blockage in the drain line, or when grease and other debris build up in the pipes. In addition to being a nuisance, sewer odors can also pose a health hazard. The fumes from sewer gases can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. It is important to take action immediately if you experience sewer odors in your business. Simply venting the affected fixtures will often solve the problem, but you may need to hire a professional plumber to clear a blockage or clean the pipes.
8. Faulty Water Heaters
The main cause of a faulty water heater is sediment build-up. Over time, the sediment will harden and eventually cause the water heater to fail. This can lead to a number of problems, including leaks, low water pressure, and even complete failure of the unit. The best way to prevent sediment build-up is to have the water heater flushed on a regular basis. This will remove any sediment that has already accumulated and prevent further buildup. If a water heater does fail, it is important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid any further damage.
9. Wrong Sized Pipes
As businesses expand and grow, they often need to replace their pipes with ones that are larger in size. This is because the wrong-sized pipe can lead to a variety of issues. For example, if your pipes are too small, they may become clogged more easily. This can lead to water pressure problems, as well as decreased water flow. Additionally, small pipes are more likely to burst under increased pressure.
10. Strange Noises Coming from Pipes
Strange noises coming from your pipes could be an indication of corrosion or blockages. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional plumber so they can assess the situation and make any necessary repairs. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to more serious damage to your plumbing system.
Contact a Professional Today!
At Cal’s Plumbing, we offer a wide range of plumbing, drain, and water treatment services. We also offer financing services to help our customers with their needs. We are proud to serve Tucson and the surrounding areas and our goal is to provide our customers with the best possible service. Contact us today and learn more about our services.
