7 Common Plumbing Problems Commercial Buildings Face

It’s challenging enough to own or manage a business facility without dealing with plumbing troubles. They’re unsightly and costly to repair, and they may turn residents, customers, or tenants against you.

Is There a Plumbing Problem in Your Building?

Let’s take a deeper look at the top seven business plumbing issues:

1. Faucets that leak

A leaking faucet, especially one with a steady trickle or leak, may not appear to be a significant problem. However, these leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water every year, which will show up on your water bill. Some leaks may even cause water to collect on or beneath the floor, underneath and within cupboards, and in other spots where you may not detect it until physical damage and mould growth has occurred.

2. Clogged drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common issues in a commercial building. You may have a tenant moving out, and this tenant leaves behind a large item that was too big for the garbage disposal system. Or, a careless employee may have dumped food particles down the drain. Whatever the reason, clogged drains can quickly lead to plumbing problems and expensive repairs.

3. Low Water Pressure

Water pressure is an essential factor in how your building’s plumbing works. Without enough water pressure, your building will struggle to keep water flowing throughout your plumbing system. Low water pressure can be caused by clogs in the city’s water supply, but it can also be caused by issues within your own plumbing.

4. Sewer Smells

Unexpected sewer smells are not uncommon in a commercial building. Someone may have dumped an excessive amount of grease down the drain, which has built up in the sewer pipes. This causes the pipes to back up, and the smell of the waste can begin to permeate your building.

5. Cracked or Leaking Pipes

Water can leak from the inside of a pipe if it’s cracked. As the pipe is made from metal, or another material that can rust, it can also develop rust and leaks will occur when the rust has expanded enough. Leaking pipes will also cause water damage and mould growth.

6. Flooding

Flooding is a problem that occurs when the roof or ceiling of a building is damaged. Water can leak into the building, causing water damage and mould growth. The mould can then cause a health hazard for your tenants or customers, and if there’s a large amount of water damage, it can end up costing you thousands of dollars in repair work.

7. Water Heater Malfunction

If you have an older water heater, one that’s at least 10-15 years old, it may begin to malfunction. This can cause a water heater to run constantly. If you have a building with multiple tenants, you could be paying for water that isn’t being used by everyone. This can cause the water heater to malfunction, and once it does, you’ll have to pay for the repairs.

When to Call a Plumber

If you notice any of these issues, you should contact a professional plumber to assess the damage and develop a plan of action. This is especially true if you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a leak in your roof or ceiling, or your water heater has started to malfunction. These issues can quickly become messy, potentially dangerous, and expensive to fix. A plumber will be able to help.

Should an incident come in, don’t hesitate to call in an emergency plumber. Here at Bromac Mechanical, you’ll be assisted by a licensed residential or commercial plumber with experience in aiding Abbotsford homes and properties through the smoothest plumbing repair services. Call 604-360-2710 for a quote or a request for emergency services.