Plumbing problems are never fun, whether you're an individual homeowner or a business owner. They are usually inconvenient and always expensive. Plumbing issues also seem to show up when you least expect it. The last thing you want is for your business's reputation to suffer because of plumbing problems. Keep reading the following guide to better understand your business's plumbing and evade disasters.
Drain, Waste, and Vent Piping
In commercial plumbing systems, drain, waste, and vent piping are engineered, sized, and installed in accordance with applicable codes and standards. These codes and standards ensure safe operation, prevent waste, and protect public health and the environment. These pipes are all similar but serve different purposes, which include:
- Drainage—These pipes are laid in trenches or in holes bored in concrete. The drain pipes can be used for the roof drainage system, foundation, and other areas of your property that require a specially designed network of pipes for drainage.
- Venting—These pipes are special components of a commercial plumbing system that allow gases to escape from plumbing systems. They are important to prevent the buildup of methane and other hazardous gases in piping, which can be hazardous if they leak into an enclosed building.
- Wastewater Evacuation—These pipes are the pipes that deal with water from plumbing drains, toilets, or appliances. They handle black and grey wastewaters that come from your business's plumbing system.
These kinds of commercial piping are typically made of plastic (PVC) or cast-iron pipe, although copper is sometimes used.
Trap Primers
A trap primer or ejector is a tiny device that makes it possible for the flow of water to be interrupted. They work like little valves—closing off the small section of a pipe that is supposed to serve just that one outlet. When all of the water in the pipe has been drained, they open again to return to the normal flow rate and water pressure.
Trap primers and ejectors can also be used to protect pipes from damage. For example, a dishwasher should never be directly connected to a pipe. If a pipe bursts, a dishwasher could flood a whole floor. These devices are used to separate fixtures and appliances from pipes. They are especially common in commercial kitchens, where a lot of water is used.
Trap primers and ejectors do not have to be expensive, but they do have to be the right size. If the size is wrong, they will not be able to do their job.
Main Water Supply and Shutoff Valves
The water supply is the water the business gets from an outside source. It may be water that comes from a well or water that comes from a utility service. The water supply line is usually a pipe that is buried in the ground and goes from the water source to the building.
The shutoff valve is a device that lets water flow into the plumbing system. When the valve is left open, water flows in. Closing the valve stops water from flowing into the plumbing system. This is important for maintenance, repairs, and improvements. You might also need to shut off valves when there is damage to your business. In commercial applications, several main shutoff valves might be needed in addition to elements such as wastewater shutoff valves and backflow prevention devices.
Commercial plumbing systems are big and complicated. You should look into hiring commercial plumbing contractors for future installations or repairs.
When you build a home or make a large addition to the home, you will hire a general contractor to oversee the project and do the majority of the work. This individual may subcontract some small tasks to specialists, such as window installers and HVAC techs, but for the most part, it is their responsibility to ensure everything is built according to plan.
As you can imagine, general contractors have very varied jobs. No two days are alike! On this website, you will learn more about what general contractors do, which will come in handy the next time you need to hire one.