9 Maintenance Tips for Commercial Plumbing

Maintaining your business’s plumbing system is more than just a matter of convenience—it's crucial for keeping your operations smooth and compliant with regulations. Well-maintained plumbing can help you avoid costly repairs, minimise downtime, and create a safer and more hygienic environment for both employees and customers. Consistent care can even prolong the life of your plumbing infrastructure, which will save you money in the long term.



If you’re currently looking for a partner that can provide plumbing Dunedin residents trust, look no further than Mains Plumbers. We have decades of experience working at businesses and homes across New Zealand. Plus, in addition to 24/7 emergency plumbing, we also provide gas fitting and drainlaying services. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden issue or looking for ongoing maintenance, Mains Plumbers combines reliable service with practical, expert advice tailored to your business's specific needs.

In this blog post, we’ll outline several essential tips to help you maintain your commercial plumbing system. Follow these guidelines to keep your system functioning well and prevent potential problems down the road:

Schedule Routine Inspections

While emergencies can definitely happen at any time, many plumbing problems don’t appear overnight. Regular inspections allow you to catch small issues—like minor leaks or early signs of corrosion—before they escalate into major, costly repairs. Identify these problems early and you can save time, as well as reduce the risk of disrupting your business operations. 

Take a Preventive Approach to Maintenance

A preventive maintenance plan helps to prolong the life of your plumbing system and minimise the need for emergency repairs. Tasks such as regularly cleaning drains, checking water heaters for efficiency, and inspecting valves can all prevent small problems from turning into larger ones. Being proactive in caring for your plumbing system keeps it functional for longer and ensures it’s ready to handle your business’s needs at any given moment.

Monitor Water Pressure

Unexpected bursts or leaks often start with inconsistent or high water pressure. Keep an eye on your system's pressure and make sure that pipes, joints, and fixtures are not under unnecessary strain. If the pressure is too high, it can lead to wear and tear on the entire system, while low pressure could indicate a blockage or other underlying issues. Monitoring and maintaining the correct water pressure helps protect your plumbing from undue damage and extends its lifespan.

Clean Drains Regularly

In commercial settings, plumbing systems are subjected to high volumes of waste, which can lead to frequent blockages if not properly managed. Regular drain cleaning, whether through hydro jetting or manual methods, is vital for avoiding clogs that disrupt operations. Regular maintenance also reduces the chances of odours, backups, and expensive repairs. Opt for non-corrosive cleaning solutions, as harsh chemicals can weaken your pipes over time.

Address Leaks as Soon as You Spot Them

Even small leaks can wreak havoc if left unattended, resulting in water damage, mould growth, and inflated utility bills. The moment you notice a leak—like a dripping tap, a cracked pipe, or a faulty gasket—take immediate action. Prompt repairs not only prevent water wastage but also safeguard your infrastructure from long-term damage. 

Inspect and Flush Heaters

Commercial water heaters are essential for day-to-day operations, so you need to keep them in optimal condition. Sediment buildup can reduce the heater’s efficiency, and this will lead to higher energy costs and shorter equipment lifespans down the line. Schedule regular inspections and flush the heaters to remove sediment so that they can keep operating efficiently. 

Prepare Your System for Winter

Cold weather can wreak havoc on plumbing systems if you don’t take the proper precautions. Insulate exposed pipes and ensure that your heating system is in working order; these essential steps will help you avoid burst pipes and other winter-related damage. Additionally, you may want to schedule a professional inspection before the colder months set in to help identify vulnerabilities in the system and prevent costly winter breakdowns. Preparing your plumbing system in advance is a good way to safeguard against the unique challenges winter presents.

Train Staff in Basic Plumbing Protocols

Your staff can play a crucial role in maintaining your plumbing system. Train employees to recognise early warning signs—such as unusual noises, water stains, or slow drainage. This way, you can prevent small issues from escalating into significant problems. Equip your team with the knowledge to perform basic tasks as well, like clearing minor blockages or shutting off water valves in emergencies. With a trained staff, your business can respond swiftly to minor incidents and avoid expensive emergency calls.

Arrange for Regular Professional Maintenance

While it’s possible to handle routine maintenance tasks internally, a licensed professional plumber should assess your system periodically. Regular professional inspections help catch complex issues that may not be apparent during routine checks, such as internal pipe corrosion or inefficiencies in the water heating system. Partner with experts like Mains Plumbers, who can ensure that your plumbing system is running optimally and help prevent unexpected breakdowns that could disrupt your operations.

Though it works mostly in the background, a well-maintained plumbing system is an absolute must to keep your business performing at its best. If you take a proactive approach and work with professionals like Mains Plumbers, you can ensure that your system is always in top condition. Don’t hesitate to contact us for all your plumbing, gas-fitting, and drainlaying needs—we’re more than happy to help you protect your business from unnecessary, costly breakdowns.