Critical Must Check Items During Commercial Plumbing Inspections

Commercial Plumbing Inspections

During our time in the office, there will always be someone using the toilet or washing their hands. Without us noticing, our plumbing system probably works 24/7. This could result in problems with wear and tear. 

A plumbing system is exposed to a series of problems. It is very intricate that plumbing inspections should be done on a regular schedule. If it has been awhile since you have them checked, the condition of the plumbing system may have changed, and you may be at risk for leaks and major blowouts. 

Before that happens, schedule a plumbing maintenance team and have your system checked. Have a plumbing inspection checklist with you or your plumbing contractor, to ensure that everything is covered. 

Benefits of Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

When you hire a plumbing contractor make sure that they have a checklist with them. Having a plumbing maintenance checklist would help ensure that your entire plumbing system is inspected thoroughly and nothing is missed. It will also give you a report about the condition of your plumbing system. 

Here are the things you should have in your plumbing inspection checklist: 

Active Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common problems in any plumbing system. It is important that every inspection should check signs of active leaks, including water spots, moisture or puddles and the presence of mold or mildew. Taking notice of these things will help prevent it from being more serious or irreparable. Remember that a small leak could end up wasting thousands of gallons of water a year if left unattended. Imagine if your commercial kitchen is suddenly flooded with water!

Signs of Corrosion

signs of corrosion

Plumbing inspection should include checking for signs of corrosion on pipes. Look for presence of limescale around water faucets, shopwer heads, stop cocks, and other fixtures. Presence of corrosion could mean the need for replacement of pipes in the near future. 

Water Pressure Levels

Water pressure levels vary depending on the type of the building. It should be within a certain range, usually no higher than 80 psi and no lower than 40 psi. For buildings with multiple stories, there is higher water pressure on the ground or lower levels of the building, while lower pressure can be found at the higher levels. Take note that lower water pressure may cause resident complaints, while high water pressure could lead to pipe damage. 

Checking of Valves for Correct Operation

Valves may seem like small parts of the plumbing system, but don’t underestimate them. They are very important. All the safety and shutoff valves in your plumbing system should be tested to see if they are working properly and if there are any broken valves that need replacement. Checking for valves will ensure that you can turn off the water to specific sections in the building rather than turning off the entire system in case an emergency happens.  

Water Heater (Boiler) Inspection

Water heaters are used regularly, so it is proper to have them inspected once in a while and see if there are any needs of repair or replacement. There should also be inspections for temperature and leaks. The safety valves and overflows should be tested and safety issues should be repaired immediately to avoid blowouts. 

Drains

drains

Check for the flow rate of drains for possible slow draining or clogging. If found to be slow or clogged, drains should be power-rodded or hydro jetted to restore proper function. For serious blockages, consider doing camera inspection to ensure they are in good working order and do not contain any infiltrations in the lines. Video camera inspections are carried out in underground drains and sewer pipes. 

Back-Flow Testing

Commercial buildings and residential buildings are required to have backflow prevention devices and annual backflow testing. This is to ensure that there are no possibilities for contamination of chemicals and other substances should the water in the system flow backwards. 

Water Filtration Systems

It is vital that you check water filtration systems during the plumbing inspections to make sure that it is working properly and producing clean, potable water. 

Bathroom Inspections

Bathrooms are used by all the residents and non residents around the clock in your building. For this, it is proper to have them checked during plumbing inspection to ensure that they are working property. 

Storage Water Tank Inspection 

In case your building has a storage tank, a thorough inspection is proper to ensure it works properly and has no active leaks or signs of corrosion. 

Water is used all around the office. May it be watering office plants, washing hands, or flushing the toilet. With the constant use of water, the plumbing system works. 

With the constant use of the plumbing system it is not inevitable that there may be cases of leaks and corrosions which is why it is important to carry out a regular plumbing maintenance inspection at least once a year. This is to ensure that your plumbing system works properly and in good condition. This will also prevent cases of major blowout and shutting down the whole system which could aggravate your residents. 

Plumbing maintenance should be done by professionally trained and accredited plumbers who can check the plumbing pipes for signs of leaks, corrosion and malfunctioning appliances that use water like water heaters. They should be able to carry out all the extensive work needed in case of repairs or replacements. 

Having regular plumbing maintenance inspection may seem to be an additional expense, but this will save you more in the long run. 

If you have any sudden increase in your water bill or have questions, always check in with your professional cleaner. With their expertise in quality cleaning, they will help pinpoint and diagnose the problem and suggest necessary repairs.