4 Common Plumbing Problems That Office Buildings Face

It often only takes a minor issue to remind us that functioning plumbing is something that most of us take for granted, whether at home or in the workplace. These common plumbing problems that office buildings face can make the environment unpleasant, disrupt work, and even harm a company’s reputation.

 

1. Clogged Drains

 

The more people who use the plumbing, the more likely clogs will happen. This is partially a result of pipes having to carry more waste overall. Furthermore, some individuals may not realize what is and isn’t flushable, adding wipes, menstrual products, trash, or even cigarettes to the plumbing instead of disposing of them properly. However, when plumbing needs to serve dozens or even thousands of people, a clog can quickly become a major problem if plumbing backs up. It’s hard to look professional without functional toilets and sinks or when the smell of sewage permeates the office.

 

2. Inconsistent Water Pressure

 

Anyone who has lived with fluctuating water pressure knows how frustrating it can be to take a shower when the pressure is too low. And water pressure doesn’t just matter at home. Without the correct pressure, it may be impossible to do everything from basic hygiene tasks to cleaning to offering the products and services a company is known for. Building size and the number of users can both be factors in water pressure, which may be why some offices are more prone to fluctuations. However, a plumbing professional can diagnose a problem, whether it’s a broken valve, a malfunctioning pressure regulator, or something else entirely.

 

3. Leaking Faucets

 

Offices can have dozens of sinks in bathrooms, breakrooms, and kitchens, each with a faucet that could start dripping at any moment. And while a single drip might not seem like a big deal, the EPA estimates that just one drip per second can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water each year. Keeping faucets in optimum working condition can not only save money on utilities but also prevent potential damage from overflowing sinks. Often, the fix is simple, and you can stop a leak by replacing a gasket or washer to save water and money.

 

4. Running Toilets

 

Finally, running toilets can also lead to wasted water and higher bills. Just like with faucets, an office is likely to have more toilets than many homes or even smaller businesses, ultimately adding to the problem. A home toilet runs when the tank fails to fill properly, and it continues draining into the bowl. This can be a problem with the fill, flapper, or float valve mechanisms, which might be easier and more affordable to fix than you realize if your workplace also has this style of toilet.

 

However, a running commercial toilet lacks a tank and uses a vacuum pipe, so it’s less likely to run. Instead, toilets in an office may constantly flush due to a clogged pressure relief hole or diaphragm that won’t seal. Often, a plumber can easily fix the issue with a flushometer kit.

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