The 3 Common Plumbing Headaches

Lessen has learned over many years that plumbing issues can often be a source of major inconvenience. Certain problems tend to occur more frequently in commercial buildings, causing disruptions and potentially resulting in costly repairs.

Let’s dive into the three most common plumbing headaches and how to prevent them proactively to save time and money.

Leaks and Drips

Leaks from pipes, valves, and fittings are among the top plumbing problems in commercial facilities. If not addressed promptly, all will escalate quickly.

Catch leaks early to prevent major damage

A small drip might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to significant water damage and higher water bills over time. Studies have shown that a leaking faucet can increase a monthly water bill by over 10%. A commercial setting is particularly at risk because the scale of plumbing infrastructure means that even minor leaks can snowball into substantial costs. It’s crucial to detect these leaks early to prevent them from becoming major problems that could strain your financial resources and cause extensive property damage.

Inspect for warning signs

Regularly inspecting your facility for signs of leaks, such as water stains, musty smells, or visible drips, can save you from future plumbing headaches.

Timely detection and repair of leaks is not just about preventing water damage; it’s also a cost-effective measure to keep your water bills in check. Pay special attention to areas under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters, as these are common sites for leaks to develop. Consistent monitoring and maintenance can ensure minor issues don’t escalate into larger, costlier complications.

Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines

Clogged drains and backed-up sewer lines are both a nuisance and a sanitary concern in commercial buildings.

Conduct routine drain maintenance

Regular drain cleaning and maintenance are essential in averting clogs and backups. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that blockages, primarily from grease and foreign objects, are the leading cause of sewer overflows, with thousands occurring annually. Ignoring common cause elements, like buildup, clogged toilets, and slow drains, can result in more extensive blockages over time.

In a commercial setting, proactive maintenance helps prevent inconvenient backups and protects against the risk of significant sewer problems. Consistent scheduled jetting services helps prevent inconvenient backups and protects against the risk of significant sewer problems.

Scheduled jetting is particularly effective in clearing out buildup and debris from sewer lines which can disrupt business operations and result in costly cleanups, making this routine service a beneficial component of your comprehensive maintenance plan.

Fix clogs immediately

When clogs occur, promptly addressing them is vital. If clogs are left unattended, they can increase the pressure in your plumbing system, leading to pipe bursts or severe backups. Quickly fixing clogs can stop extensive damage to pipes and avoid plumbing emergencies, which can be expensive for both repairs and business disruptions.

If severe blockages that can’t be resolved with a plunger or standard drain cleaners, seeking professional plumbing services is a wise decision to ensure the issue is thoroughly and efficiently addressed.

Faulty Toilets and Faucets

Toilets and faucets that malfunction frequently can disrupt normal operations in commercial facilities, resulting in inconveniences and potentially expensive repairs.

Schedule preventive fixture maintenance

Proactive maintenance of plumbing fixtures, including toilets and faucets, is more than just a measure to ensure functionality. It’s a strategic investment in your facility’s efficiency. Regular checkups can identify leaky faucets, running toilets, and low water pressure before they escalate.

Most industry studies say preventive maintenance can significantly reduce the chances of plumbing emergencies, which are often much more expensive than routine upkeep. Promptly addressing minor issues saves on immediate repair costs and extends the life span of your fixtures, enhancing your return on investment.

Decide whether to replace or repair fixtures

Whether to repair or replace a malfunctioning fixture often comes down to a long-term cost-benefit analysis. While repairs might seem less expensive up front, they can accumulate over time, especially if the fixture is old or continually problematic, from high usage. In contrast, investing in a new, and likely costlier, fixture can offer greater efficiency, fewer future repairs, and potential save on water bills.

This decision-making process should factor in the fixture’s age, frequency of issues, and the impact on water consumption and overall facility operations.

Partner with Lessen

Neglecting common plumbing issues like leaks, clogs, and faulty fixtures can trigger major problems and disruptions in commercial buildings. Regular maintenance and prompt attention are crucial to avoiding such pitfalls.

Partnering with a professional plumbing service provider like Lessen can ensure your facility’s plumbing system is in top condition. Contact Lessen today to get started on proactive plumbing maintenance and avoid common plumbing headaches.