Commercial buildings require a completely different type of plumbing than residential homes. Commercial properties have higher water demands and longer lasting fixtures, as well as increased risks of contamination. This means that commercial plumbers must be highly skilled and knowledgeable about industrial plumbing. Whether you own a business or manage a property for a business, understanding the need for plumbing is essential to keeping your building running smoothly and efficiently.
A healthy flow of water throughout your space not only keeps things cleanly, but also maintains the efficiency of your operation. Here are some tips on why commercial plumbing is important to maintaining an efficient operation, as well as how to find the best commercial plumber in your area.
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What is Commercial Plumbing?
Commercial plumbing is the installation of plumbing fixtures and appliances in commercial properties, such as hotels, restaurants, office buildings and similar establishments. Commercial plumbing is different from residential plumbing because commercial properties are more exposed to the elements.
The exterior of commercial properties is exposed to wind and precipitation, while interior spaces also have stricter ventilation requirements to avoid humidity build-up. Homeowners primarily use copper for plumbing because copper is a good conductor of heat and electricity.
However, copper is not a good conductor of water, so it does not work well in an environment where water is constantly present or present in large amounts, like a kitchen or a restaurant. For example, copper cannot be used in a restaurant because the constant dripping of water onto tables or into a sink can damage it.
Commercial plumbing also has certain requirements that are different from residential plumbing. Plumbing systems in commercial properties must be able to resist wind and precipitation, while also maintaining higher humidity levels than in a residential setting. Commercial plumbing also requires more frequent maintenance, since it is exposed to the elements and more complex.
Types of Commercial Plumbing
- Domestic – Installing fixtures and appliances used for water supply and sanitation in a residential setting.
- Industrial – Installing fixtures and appliances used for water supply and sanitation in an industrial setting.
- Municipal – Installing fixtures used for water supply and sanitation for the city of a certain size.
Why Is Commercial Plumbing Important?
The two most important reasons to choose a commercial plumber are the reliability and longevity of your fixtures, and the health and safety of all the people who work in your building. Having a reliable system is essential for businesses that rely on their water supply. If the source of water fails, or if the pipes are too old and corroded, your operation will come to a halt.
When choosing a commercial plumber, take into account the service area of the plumbing being provided. While it is helpful to have a plumber who can come to all of your locations, you will also have to drive yourself to the jobs that require travel farther than the local area. Make sure you pick a plumber who has access to the parts and expertise you need for the kinds of fixtures you have in the building.
Key Point: Commercial plumbing needs to be different from residential plumbing.
Most residential plumbing is the same in a house as it is in an apartment. Homeowners primarily use copper because copper is a good conductor of heat and electricity. However, copper is not a good conductor of water, so it does not work well in an environment where water is constantly present or present in large amounts, like a kitchen or a restaurant.
For example, copper cannot be used in a restaurant because the constant dripping of water onto tables or into a sink can damage it. Commercial plumbing also has certain requirements that are different from residential plumbing. Plumbing systems in commercial properties must be able to resist wind and precipitation, while also maintaining higher humidity levels than in a residential setting. Commercial plumbing also requires more frequent maintenance, since it is exposed to the elements and more complex.
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Taps and Faucets
A tap is a device used to control the flow of water from a source, such as a water source or a sink. Taps are generally made of metal or plastic and have a spout, along with a handle that allows you to control the flow of water. A faucet, on the other hand, is a device that has a hose attached to it and is generally controlled by a lever or a handle. You can control the pressure or flow of water by turning the faucet on and off with your hand or a faucet handle.
For example, you can turn a tap to control the flow of water and then use a water filter or another appliance hooked up to the same water line to filter out sediment and impurities in the water. Fixtures that are connected to a city water supply are called domestic fixtures, while fixtures that are connected to a private water supply are called industrial fixtures.
Toilets and Bidets
Toilets are used for flushing and are connected to a city water supply through a city water line. These fixtures are generally not used for domestic water supply, but for flushing effluent and human waste. Bidets are surprisingly common in many homes and are used for rinsing after a bowel movement.
Sinks and Dishwashers
Sinks are used for cleaning dishes. A sink is connected to a city water supply and is generally used for domestic purposes. Industrial fixtures are similar to residential fixtures, but are generally connected to a private water supply. Sinks, on the other hand, are connected to a city water supply and are generally used for domestic purposes such as washing dishes and flushing toilets.
Heating and Cooling Systems
A heating system is used to warm a building and is connected to a city water supply. A cooling system is used to cool a building and is generally connected to a refrigeration line.
Backups and Sewerage Systems
A backup is a backup system that provides water in case of a shutoff or a break in the water line. A sewerage system connects your home to sewers and is connected to a city water supply.
Final Words
Commercial plumbing is the installation of plumbing fixtures and appliances in commercial properties, such as hotels, restaurants, office buildings and similar establishments. Plumbing systems in commercial properties must be able to resist wind and precipitation, while also maintaining higher humidity levels than in a residential setting.
Commercial plumbing also requires more frequent maintenance, since it is exposed to the elements and more complex. If you are looking to start a new career as a commercial plumber, this information will help you understand what you need to know about commercial plumbing.