What Are The Most Common Plumbing Service Calls?
Thankfully, regular maintenance and mindful usage can prevent most commercial plumbing emergencies. It is also wise to know what to look out for so you can promptly call a plumber when necessary.
Dripping faucets and toilets waste water and can cause costly damage if left unattended. Drains can get clogged with hair, grease, and other debris if not properly used or disposed of.
Clogged Drains
One of the most common commercial plumbing issues is clogged drains and toilets. These pipes carry both water and waste, so when they are blocked, it can cause flooding and other problems throughout the business.
Some clogs are caused by commonly drained items, such as dirt or skin flakes, that can easily be remedied with a plunger or liquid drain cleaner. However, substances that don’t dissolve well or stick to the walls of drain pipes cause more severe clogs.
Avoid throwing things like cotton products (like baby wipes, tampons, or diapers) down the drain to prevent these clogs. Also, avoid using caustic drain cleaners regularly, as these can damage the walls of your pipes. Instead, try a natural enzyme product such as Bio-Clean to break down grease and other drain blockages without killing fish or hurting your lines. This can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Burst Pipes
The pipes that run throughout your home aren’t something you think about often—until they burst. When a pipe bursts, it can cause severe damage and flooding that’s expensive to repair. Water pipes usually break because of a clog or leak that builds up pressure inside them. Age or tree roots may also weaken them.
If you think you have a burst pipe, turning off your water main is essential. This will stop the new water flow and make it easier for plumbers to spot and fix the damage.
Other signs of a burst pipe include water stains on walls and ceilings. These stains indicate the line’s location and help plumbers find the broken section quickly. Regular maintenance and preventative plumbing services are the best ways to prevent burst pipes. A commercial plumbing professional will inspect your pipes regularly, look for any clogs or leaks, and make repairs as needed.
Sewer Backups
The plumbing in your home extends beyond the walls of your house, and if your home’s sewer line becomes clogged or otherwise malfunctioning, it can cause raw sewage to back up into your home. There are many possible causes of a sewer backup, including tree root intrusion, crushed or broken pipes from shifting soil, blockages caused by improper disposal of cooking grease (which should always be placed in the trash), and normal material deterioration in old pipes.
Contacting a professional is essential if you think you have a sewer backup. This is a health and safety issue, as raw sewage can contain dangerous bacteria that can make you and your family sick. You should also check with your insurance company to see if any damage is covered. If you can, shut off your water valves and protect your eyes, skin, and lungs if you must enter the affected area. You should also look for the source of the sewage backup and consider having your sewer line checked and replaced if necessary
