Commercial plumbing is a lot more susceptible to damage than residential plumbing. That said, if you run a business, you should know the signs that may mean your pipes need replacing.
Whether you rent or own the building that you conduct your business in, you should always make sure that your plumbing is inspected regularly. If you’ve been neglecting your plumbing system for quite some time now, it may be time to go and look for these signs of damage:
1. Corrosion
Corrosion is the number one reason why a lot of business owners get their industrial pipe fittings in Utah replaced prematurely. And since most piping is hidden within walls and underneath floors, it’s not easy to spot a corrosion problem–much less in its early stages.
Get a professional to come in and inspect your pipes from time to time because you may not be able to do so yourself without special equipment. If they see signs of corrosion, it’s a good indicator that you need your pipes replaced.
However, there are some easily distinguishable signs that may mean your pipes are corroded, such as:
- Discolored water
- Flakes of rust in the water
- Strange-tasting water; the taste of rust
- Low water pressure due to leaks
2. Slow draining
Slow draining is a major problem for commercial establishments, especially for those in the food industry. Slow drains are commonly caused by blockages in the drains or pipes, which can usually be remedied by removing the clog. You can even do this yourself without having to call in a plumber.
However, if the problem doesn’t clear up after you clear your drains, it may be a problem with the pipes themselves. Rusted pipes are narrower than those without corrosion, and thus make it harder for water to pass through and drain into the main sewer line. If this is the problem, pipe replacement may be necessary.
3. Mold and moisture problems
Mold in a commercial establishment is a big no-no, and can even garner you penalties due to sanitary violations. If you see mold in your place of business, look for the source of moisture immediately.
If the source traces back to your pipes, it may mean that there are leaks that are going unnoticed. See if the leaks are repairable. But if the repairs will more or nearly as much as replacements, consider the latter instead.
4. Low water pressure
If your building’s taps and showers aren’t letting out water at full blast, it could indicate a significant problem in your plumbing. Low water pressure in one area or fixture is usually not a cause for concern, but when the majority of the entire building experiences low water pressure, you may be dealing with corroded pipes, broken pipes, malfunctioning water pumps, or a combination of all of these.
5. Old age
When was the last time the pipes in your establishment were updated? If your building is more than a hundred years old and the pipes haven’t been updated yet, there’s a great chance that they are nearing the end of their service life. In this case, you should get them replaced immediately.
Don’t wait for a major plumbing problem to arise before you implement any prevention measures. If you see these signs in your pipes, it may be time to replace them with newer, better ones.
