A business or property owner needs to focus on many aspects. Owning or managing property comes with many responsibilities, and some can often be neglected until there’s an emergency to deal with. Maintaining your commercial plumbing is a common example of this.
You can avoid falling into the costly trap that can come from neglecting plumbing issues, by investing in the commercial plumbing maintenance offered by local plumbers. If you’re not sure how preventative maintenance will benefit your commercial property, then this post is a must-read.
What Exactly is Preventative Plumbing Maintenance?
As the term suggests, preventative plumbing maintenance refers to processes and inspections done by a commercial plumber to prevent potential emergencies. These types of inspections typically include the following:
- Checking thermostatic mixing valves and replacing faulty components
- Inspecting and servicing drainage systems and checking drain flow rates
- Checking for backflow and water quality testing
- Checking indoor, outdoor, and stormwater drainage system
- Inspecting water pressure and all plumbing components for leaks
- Examining the condition of pipes for signs of deterioration or corrosion
- Checking general plumbing fixtures for correct function, possible wear and tear on faucets, sinks, and toilets
- Servicing fire systems such as hydrants
It’s essential to highlight that commercial plumbing is significantly different from the regular fixtures in your home. This means that only a certified commercial plumber should service, repair, or install any commercial plumbing components.
Many Benefits to Look Forward to
There are many benefits associated with investing in commercial plumbing maintenance. We take a closer look at the most common ones.
Reduces Potential Downtime
The last thing any business can afford is to have unnecessary or unscheduled downtime when there’s a plumbing emergency. Downtime is not only inconvenient to your customers but also affects profit margins and customer experiences.
Routinely inspecting all your plumbing aspects will ensure that minor damages are detected before they become a larger problem. Once your plumber makes you aware of a potential issue, you can schedule a repair time that doesn’t negatively affect your day-to-day business.
Eliminates Rising Utility Bills
Faulty plumbing components that cause water or gas leaks can cause a significant rise in your utility bills. This is especially the case if a leak goes undetected for several weeks. This will leave you with a costly utility bill as well as potentially expensive repairs.
Regularly inspecting pipes, drains, hydrants, and other components will detect leaks in time. Many modern, fully functioning plumbing components have been specially designed to be more energy efficient which can go a long way toward helping you establish a steady utility budget.
Reduces the Risk of Plumbing Emergencies
Some plumbing emergencies are more than just an inconvenience. Emergencies such as gas leaks can be life-threatening to people on your property as well as anyone in the surrounding area. In addition to relying on preventative measures, you should also educate your staff on the procedures to follow in a gas-related emergency.
Give Your Business Access to Expert Advice
Enlisting a professional plumber also means that you will have access to expert skills and experience. Commercial plumbers are specifically trained to test, repair, and install commercial plumbing fixtures.
They also have the necessary tools and technologies which make detecting faults, blockages, and leaks much more efficient. Using technologies such as CCTV cameras makes it possible to detect the cause of leaks and blockages without unnecessary excavation.
Reduces the Risk of Damaged Equipment
A plumbing emergency doesn’t only wreak havoc on your property but can also cause severe damage to computer, electrical, or industrial equipment. Whether you’re running an office, industrial space, or commercial kitchen, having a burst pipe can result in considerable damage throughout the business. This in turn creates downtime and also leaves you with costly repair or replacement bills for any damaged equipment.
Allows Your Plumbing to Stay Compliant
Every industry has specific guidelines and legislation that need to be met for the business to be deemed compliant. This doesn’t only apply to building codes and business practices but also includes some plumbing functions and equipment.
For instance, backflow and TMV testing need to be carried out periodically and results recorded. Not adhering to these legislations can also result in your business receiving major fines or being temporarily shut down.
Certified plumbers are aware of the guidelines and legislations for your specific industry, which means they will know exactly what needs to be tested and how often. They will also provide you with the necessary documentation that your plumbing is compliant.
Final Thoughts
Commercial plumbing maintenance and general preventative plans are crucial for keeping your regular and specialised fixtures functioning correctly and safely. It’s also an effective way to avoid costs arising from emergencies.
Your business will also eliminate the risk of fines for plumbing that doesn’t comply with local laws. Leaving your plumbing to the experts means you can focus your time and energy on the rest of your business.
