Commercial plumbing systems are generally more sturdy than residential plumbing, but business owners in Slaton, Texas, should still be mindful of signs that could indicate underlying issues. Here are just a few things to look for that can help commercial property managers determine whether to hire a plumbing contractor.
Reduced Water Pressure
Have you noticed a decrease in water pressure? Low water pressure can indicate a blockage along the system’s supply lines. Gradual decreases in pressure should be addressed, but they’re typically not urgent. If you notice a sudden loss in water pressure, however, you could be dealing with a complete blockage or broken pipe, which requires immediate attention. When in doubt, call your commercial plumber to inspect the pipes before your risk further damages. In some cases, your best option may be an upgrade.
Water Discoloration
Discolored water isn’t always a cause for concern. For example, rural areas with well water often experience discolored water. But if your business goes from having clear water to discolored water without explanation, you should contact a professional right away. Dark or brown water often results from pipe corrosion, depositing rust in the water as it runs through the system. Untreated, this rust can clog your pipes and build up the system’s pressure, eventually causing the pipes to burst. Nobody likes the thought of drinking rusty water anyway, so why not upgrade to newer pipes?
Foul Odors
Unpleasant or downright offensive odors coming from plumbing fixtures could indicate a blockage in the sewer vent stack. As these foul gases build up over time, they could lead to dangerous sewer leaks that can affect your entire commercial property. Fortunately, regular plumbing maintenance can prevent severe gas-related issues, but you’ll still need to pay attention to any odor changes around drains and other plumbing fixtures.
Slow Drainage
Most people deal with sluggish drainage on their own using liquid drain cleaner, but if the problem persists, you’re better off calling in a plumber. Clogs and pipe backups are difficult to locate, especially in multi-story buildings, so your drain cleaner might not even reach its intended target. A commercial plumber can get straight to the source of the problem and make the necessary upgrades to have your pipes draining freely in no time.
Outdated Pipe Material
Depending on when your commercial property was built and whether it’s experienced renovations, you may want to consider upgrading the pipes. Different eras utilized various materials for plumbing systems, including galvanized steel, iron, and even lead. Modern plumbing systems use copper, brass, or PVC pipes.
Each of these materials has a different lifespan and isn’t meant to last forever. For example, PVC pipes must be replaced after 24 to 40 years, while older brass pipes can go for 100 years. If you don’t know what kind of pipes are in your commercial property, ask your plumber to check and make any upgrade recommendations.
Water Strains
Have you noticed any brown spots on the walls or ceilings? Water stains are common enough that you might be willing to overlook them, but they actually represent a serious underlying problem. Water stains indicate a leak somewhere in the system, which can result in costly water damage if left untreated. Whenever you notice water stains in your commercial building, you’ll need to invest in a pipe replacement soon.
Gurgling Sounds
If your commercial sink gurgles or makes a bubbling sound, there’s probably a backup somewhere in the system. Gurgling is the sound of air bubbling in the drains, and proper venting can usually address the problem. Appliances that tend to make gurgling noises include dishwashers, laundry machines, sump pumps, and anything else in your commercial property that drains a large amount of water at once. Whether you own a restaurant or a rental property, you’ll want to address this issue immediately.
Call us at Sinclair at 844-749-COOL at the first sign of commercial plumbing problems. And be sure to schedule your regular commercial plumbing maintenance to ward off emergencies in the first place. Regular maintenance can help you avoid additional expenses and unexpected headaches by preventing costly repairs and replacements.