Top 8 Plumbing Issues Encountered by Small Business Owners

In general, commercial spaces encounter different plumbing issues when compared to residential properties. This is because, relative to homes or apartments, the plumbing systems in business establishments see higher usage and must adhere to specific operational requirements. The plumbing systems in small business facilities, such as restaurants, laundromats, shops, and offices, therefore endure greater stress from frequent use and the diverse materials that pass through them. 

As a small business owner in New Zealand, understanding these common plumbing problems and knowing how to address and prevent them can save you time, money, and disruptions in your operations. If you ever encounter any of these, get in touch with commercial plumbers Dunedin businesses trust so you can resolve them immediately. 

Clogged Drains and Toilets

Clogged drains and toilets are common in commercial settings due to the high volume of users and the variety of materials flushed or washed down the drain. In restaurants and cafes, for instance, it’s not uncommon for food particles, grease, and other debris to accumulate in the drains and lead to blockages. Similarly, in offices and retail shops, paper products and other non-flushable items can cause toilet clogs. To prevent these issues, ensure that only appropriate materials are disposed of in sinks and toilets; also, make sure to have your drainage systems professionally cleaned regularly.

Leaky Faucets

A frequent annoyance in many professional spaces, leaky faucets waste water and add to your business’s utility costs. This kind of problem can develop over time, simply because faucet components can succumb to everyday wear and tear after a lot of uses. To avoid this common plumbing issue, it’s crucial to conduct regular inspections and maintenance and replace worn out parts immediately. Likewise, installing high-quality, heavy-duty fixtures designed for commercial use can also reduce the likelihood of leaks.

Running Toilets

No one wants to deal with running toilets. It’s a common enough issue for residential properties, but toilets that are accessible to the public are particularly prone to this problem. A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water, which means that it can both affect your facility’s water bill and increase your operation’s carbon footprint. 

Resolving this problem requires determining its cause, such as faulty flapper valves, fill valves, or overflow pipes. In high-traffic areas like restaurants and offices, these components can wear out quickly. Make sure to conduct regular maintenance checks to identify and fix issues early. The use of durable, commercial-grade toilet components can also contribute to reducing the instances of this plumbing problem.

Low Water Pressure

For businesses that rely on a steady water flow such as restaurants and laundromats, low water pressure can cause significant disruptions in daily operations. This may be caused by sediment build-up in the pipes, leaks, or problems with the water supply line. Fortunately, you maintain optimal water pressure for your business through regular pipe inspections and cleaning. Meanwhile, installing a pressure regulator can ensure consistent water pressure throughout your facility.

Water Heater Issues

Businesses like restaurants, cafes, laundromats, and vacation rentals often feature water heaters in their facilities, which can sadly succumb to plumbing challenges as well. The problems usually manifest in the form of lack of hot water, strange noises, or leaks, and these can severely impact business operations. Have your water heaters regularly inspected for problems like sediment build-up or worn-out parts so they can be serviced accordingly. You should also evaluate your business’s water usage and upgrade your water heaters as necessary to be able to handle higher demands.

Sewer Line Backups

A backed-up sewer line is a serious issue that can cause unpleasant odours, slow drainage, and even potential health hazards. The most common causes of this problem are blockages from grease or oil, as well as the accumulation of large debris. In some cases, it can also be because of tree roots infiltrating the sewer line. If you have a food service business, ensure that grease traps are properly maintained to keep grease out of the sewer system. In any case, you’ll need professional sewer line inspections and cleanings done regularly to prevent backups.

Burst Pipes

Just like in a residential property, a burst pipe in a commercial or office space can lead to significant problems. Aside from the initial flooding and business disruption, it can even cause water damage in the space. If your establishment has been experiencing issues like freezing temperatures, corrosion, or excessive water pressure, there’s a chance that you might need to deal with a burst pipe in the coming days. Avoid this situation by being proactive in insulating exposed pipes to protect against freezing and regularly checking your plumbing for signs of corrosion or wear. Another option would be to install pressure-reducing valves that can help prevent pipes from bursting due to high water pressure.

Grease Trap Problems

A particular problem for restaurants and cafes, grease traps can overflow or become clogged if not properly maintained. This can lead to unpleasant odours and drainage problems. Always clean and maintain your grease traps to ensure they function correctly. Moreover, proper waste disposal practices should be implemented, such as scraping food scraps into the bin before washing dishes, to reduce the amount of grease entering the trap.

A functioning plumbing system is integral to the smooth operation of any small business. By being aware of the common plumbing issues that can arise and taking proactive measures to address and prevent them, you can maintain a healthy and efficient environment for your customers and staff. 

Should you need regular maintenance and prompt repairs for the plumbing system for your small business in Dunedin, get in touch with Mains Plumbers. Our team offers gas fitting services, industrial and commercial drainlaying, and emergency plumbing services for businesses in Dunedin.