Commercial Plumbing Notebook

Business Guide to Plumbing Efficiency

How to Maintain a Commercial Plumbing System


Commercial plumbing systems are often the backbone of a business or office building. If they aren’t properly maintained, they can become a major source of frustration. When plumbing systems don’t work properly, it can have a serious impact on productivity, efficiency, and safety. The worst part is that problems with commercial plumbing is that sometimes ignored until they become too costly to ignore. If your commercial plumbing system isn’t operating at its best, there are things you can do to keep it up and running optimally.

Below are some helpful tips on how to maintain your commercial plumbing system. There are many different reasons why a plumbing system might break down. Problems with a plumbing system can range from simple leaks to clogged drains and broken pipes. The good news is that there are many ways to avoid these problems in the first place. The following advice will help you keep your commercial plumbing system running at peak healthy and efficiency.

Check For Problems Regularly

You can’t prevent all problems with a plumbing system, but you can avoid them by paying attention. Regularly check the system to see there are no problems. If there are, you can take action to repair the issues before they become more serious. If you have a problem with your system in the morning, you can catch it the same day before it becomes a major issue.

A simple problem can often be fixed with a simple repair. If you have a major problem, you can take proactive steps to avoid more costly repairs in the future. If you have a leaking faucet or a broken toilet, you can fix those problems without having to replace the entire system. If you catch a problem early, you can avoid a much larger issue. You can also avoid the need for a plumber if there is a simple problem.

Check The Oil

Many commercial plumbing systems are powered by an electric or a natural gas heating system. If your heating system is old or has seen frequent use, it may need to be changed out. An oil-fired heating system is often a more cost-effective option for a commercial space, but it requires regular maintenance to avoid problems. You should check the oil in your heating system once or twice a year. If you have an electric system, you can do a simple inspection to make sure that the wires are secure. If you have a gas-fired system, you should turn off the main gas valve and install a new gas line if the old one is damaged. If your heating system needs to be repaired or replaced, it’s often a good idea to install a new system at the same time.

Change Water Filters

If you have a custom water system, you will need to change out the water filter and repair any leaks. You should check the filter in your water system on a schedule like every six months. You can do this by removing the filter and cleaning or replacing it. If you have any leaks, you should repair the system as soon as possible. You can save a lot of money by repairing it before something drastci happens. You will avoid a major expense if you catch the problem early.

Hold Maintenance Meetings

You may want to hold regular maintenance meetings to stay on top of your plumbing system. You can decide how often you want to meet, but you should hold at least one meeting each year. If you have a regular maintenance meeting, you will be able to catch problems more effectively before they become a real problem. You can also discuss ways to improve your system and make it last longer. Keeping your commercial plumbing system healthy and efficient will help you save money in the long run. You will avoid headaches and frustrations caused with everyone keeping a watchful eye on the plumbing and heating systems.

Frequently Asked Question

​What are the 3 stages of plumbing?
A home plumbing installation isn't completed all at once but in 3 stages, to be exact: Underground rough-in phase. Aboveground rough-in phase (top-out or stack-out) Finishing phase (Trim-out or trim finish)
How can a plumber be more efficient?
  • Automate your estimation process
  • Handle one task at a time
  • Set goals and work towards them
  • Delegate tasks
  • Eliminate non-performers
​Can PEX be used in commercial?
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) offers a unique benefit when used in commercial buildings. It is highly tolerant of heat and cold, and can, therefore, be used for different types of water supply applications.
​What do plumbers use the most?
Pliers are probably the most used tools in a plumber's arsenal. They offer leverage and allow you to move and grip small objects. Pliers also bend and shape wires and small rods. With pliers, you can stabilize, loosen, or tighten pipes.
Where should you not use PEX?
PEX cannot be taken anywhere outside the house where it is directly exposed to UV for a long period. The synthetic material of the pipes can slowly disintegrate due to the light of the sun. Even light bulbs have been known to affect the lifespan of PEX water lines.