Fixing the 7 Most Common Plumbing Problems

Nobody likes to deal with commercial plumbing problems. Not only can this get very messy, it can also be an expensive solution depending on the problem. If you hesitate to call a professional plumber right away, the best solution is to fix the plumbing problem yourself.

Most common commercial plumbing problems can be solved with plumbing tools that can be found at any hardware store. Augers and drain plungers are two tools you should always have around the house for a DIY installation.

However, if the plumbing job seems a lot more complicated than you initially thought, it’s always a good idea to call a plumber. Ignoring it will only make the problem worse over time, especially for more serious problems that can result in higher utility bills and property damage.

So, before you take that plunge, let’s take a look at the 7 most common commercial plumbing problems you’re most likely to encounter.

Commercial vs. Residential Plumbing

Commercial buildings often face similar plumbing problems as shared apartments, but to a greater extent for businesses, office buildings, and large apartment complexes. When you’re repairing a broken pipe or installing new plumbing for your new building, you definitely don’t want to be confused about what type of pipe or fitting to use.

Commercial plumbing problems can be exacerbated due to heavier use compared to residential installations. In addition, commercial plumbing systems are often larger and more complex than residential plumbing systems.

Commercial establishments also have different water heaters than residential buildings. These water heaters have larger storage tanks and gas inlet tiers. They are often more than twice the size of a residential water heater.

Solutions to Commercial Plumbing Problems

Commercial plumbing problems can be a major headache and cost your business time and money. If this is the case, you need a quick, professional fix with lasting results.

But not everything requires a plumber right away, and some problems can be solved with a few ordinary household tools. These are the most common commercial plumbing problems, how to fix them, and when to call a commercial plumber.

Clogged Toilet

Everyone has probably encountered this problem at some point. A clogged toilet can result from too much toilet paper, poorly maintained drains, or flushing an item you don’t want flushed (kids’ toys are a common culprit).

In most cases, this line problem can be solved with a few strokes of your plunger, but sometimes an auger is required to clear the clog.

Pipes Burst

Burst pipes can be a costly and dangerous plumbing problem. A larger leak is difficult enough to fix, but it can also significantly reduce water pressure and, in some cases, contaminate the water. A burst pipe can have several causes:

• Tree roots grow into the underground pipe and cause it to burst;
• The piping is too old and brittle;
• Corrosive metals eat away at and weaken the tubing; Or
• An earthquake can churn up the ground and move it too much.

When you experience a burst water pipe, it can be extremely annoying. It can also increase your risk of flooding. Contact a local plumber immediately if you have a broken water line, especially the main water line.

Low Water Pressure

As mentioned above, low water pressure can be caused by a burst pipe or any other type of leak. Scale and mineral deposits build up over time, causing clogs that can affect water pressure. Therefore, regular cleaning of your pipes is recommended.

However, you can detect low water pressure if your commercial property’s pressure regulator is failing or if your main shut-off valve or water meter valve is not fully open. Usually this is due to another recent repair service that caused the plumbers to temporarily close the valves. If you recently had plumbing done and now have low water pressure, this could be the reason.

Failing or Clogged Sewage System

We don’t really think about the sewers under our houses: out of sight, out of mind. However, a failing or overloaded sewage system can be your worst nightmare. It’s an expensive and smelly problem to fix, not to mention it can cause other household problems, such as:

• Mold and mildew
• Foundation wall cracks
• Soggy lawn
• Insect and rodent infestation

For these types of plumbing problems, a professional plumbing service should always be called to repair and replace drain lines. Additionally, with Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), installers can visually inspect where the problem lies without tearing down the entire commercial property lawn.

Clogged Drains

You’ll find that the most common problem with commercial plumbing is simply a clogged drain. Unless it’s a serious problem that affects the entire plumbing system, a quick DIY project can unclog most drain clogs, even on commercial properties.

Hair, soap scum, and food can slowly build up and slow water flow, so unclogging is usually the only work required for clogged drains. Scheduling a waterjet service is also a great way to minimize the risk of clogging by thoroughly cleaning your pipes.

Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet can skyrocket your monthly water bill. There are two common causes of a leaky faucet: worn gaskets or bad washers. Replacing washers is a simple task, so we recommend starting there.

If replacing your washers doesn’t help, you may need to replace your gaskets. Consult your local plumbing expert for this task, as gaskets can be more difficult to replace than washers.

Silent Leaks

A silent leak, including silent toilet leaks, is very common and can become a major plumbing emergency if left undetected. A silent leak can cause structural damage to your property over time.

• Higher utility bill than usual due to an increase in water usage
• Hearing running water even though you don’t have any faucets turned on
• Water stains on your walls or ceiling

If you think you have a silent leak, call a professional plumber right away.

What will help Solve all these Commercial Plumbing Problems?

When you are confident that the plumbing problem cannot be solved with the plumbing tools you have alone, calling a professional plumber should always be your next step. You don’t want to worsen the situation and end up causing even more damage to your plumbing and plumbing system on your commercial property.

At Wisler Plumbing & Air, our commercial plumbers offer a full range of plumbing jobs from leak detection to trenchless drain repair and replacement. Our experienced specialists take care of all domestic and commercial plumbing problems at an affordable price. Contact us today for a quick quote from a commercial plumber!