Most commercial properties are so massive that they use hundreds of thousands of liters of water daily. Such properties will require much attention in the plumbing’s planning, design, and execution. Commercial plumbing has numerous pipes running through the necessary places on the property. Without careful attention, mistakes in the plumbing can be catastrophic, warns Stringer Management.
Although commercial plumbing may not be complex, the scope of work is usually massive. Commercial plumbers handle several cases of faulty water tanks, burst pipes, slow leaks, installations, and clogged drains.
Since commercial plumbing is so sensitive and essential, commercial plumbers require adequate training, education, skill, and expertise. Commercial plumbing goes beyond handling emergencies or maintenance issues. It also entails offering quality customer services.
What does it take to become a commercial plumber?
Commercial plumbing requires quality training. You will first attend a trade school for at least four years. During this period, you will serve as an apprentice under a master plumber who will teach you the practical and theoretical aspects of plumbing. At the end of this training, you will sit for the journeyman plumber examination and obtain a license as a journeyman plumber. However, the above process varies depending on the state.
You may become a master plumber after additional coursework and more years of experience. Here, you can establish a personal contracting business and tutor future plumbers to specialize in high-grade plumbing.
You will need to acquire special training, certifications, or an undergraduate degree in addition to a master’s plumber license. Doing so will offer you an advantage over other master and journeyman plumbers who can also handle most parts of commercial plumbing.
Why is commercial plumbing different?
Commercial plumbing is more sophisticated, demanding, and extensive than residential plumbing. That is because it deals with wastewater drainage systems and water supply for different high-rise properties, businesses, building complexes, and public spaces. The plumbers handle emergency and regular maintenance or repairs for schools, hospitals, companies, restaurants, corporations, etc.
Several things differentiate commercial plumbing from residential plumbing. They include:
Regulations and laws
The regulations and laws that govern commercial plumbing are more robust because many people or businesses depend on commercial plumbing. The requirements are stiffer, especially in terms of health and safety.
There are numerous health code requirements that the drainage system and water supply in hospitals and restaurants should adhere to. A deviation from these means violating the health and safety codes.
Work hours for plumbers
Commercial plumbers work outside typical business hours. That is because people occupy commercial properties during business hours. If their work interrupts your business, the plumbers may not work during that time.
Multiple levels
Commercial plumbing requires multiple levels of segmentation, especially in high-rise buildings. That is because gravity will impact tanks, pipes, drains, and other plumbing fixtures if you fail to segment the plumbing.
Maintenance standards
Since commercial plumbing is usually massive, it requires preventive maintenance. Issues in commercial plumbing can be extensive. Plumbing systems are very essential in commercial properties such as hospitals. They should work round the clock, and you cannot afford to have a system breakdown.
For this reason, commercial plumbing requires a preventive schedule and regular maintenance. Doing so will prevent breakdowns which can lead to loss of income. It also helps to curb expensive plumbing repairs.
Scope of work
The scale of work for commercial plumbers is more complex and larger. Just as the properties are, some commercial properties have sophisticated equipment and interconnected water systems. The presence of these complicated systems makes the job a bit arduous. That means commercial plumbers require more skills and training in complex buildings.
Best practices for commercial plumbing
Plumbing has variable standards and industry best practices depending on the use. Different systems have specific guidelines on fixtures or materials to use. Below are some best strategies you should follow:
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Perform regular scheduled checks and tests
We recommend that you conduct regular, scheduled testing according to the standards and regulations. It is essential to do this, especially when you have concealed pipes. As part of your scheduled checks, perform toxicity and hydraulic tests. Ensure you carry out corrective measures whenever you detect plumbing issues.
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Preventive maintenance
It is better to prevent plumbing issues from occurring than to wait for them to happen before you act. Some problems can become emergencies that can cost more damage or become expensive to remedy. That is why having a preventive maintenance schedule is always recommended.
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Hire the appropriate expert
Work with people who have the appropriate skills for the job. There are numerous sub-specialties in commercial plumbing, such as fuel gas plumbers, pipe layers, potable plumbers, sewage and septic system plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. The proper expert will deliver an excellent job.
The bottom line
Commercial plumbing has unique codes and regulations depending on the application. We recommend that you always follow standard and industry best practices for your commercial plumbing. You can always seek advice from professionals whenever you are in doubt.