While you might not think about it too much, your commercial property’s plumbing system is among its most critical components. Plumbing issues can rapidly worsen and cause significant damage and disruptions to your business operations.

Failing to call a professional at the right time can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs. To help you identify potential issues early, here are the top signs it’s time to call a commercial plumber.

Persistent Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls

Persistent water stains on your facility’s ceilings or walls indicate your property has a hidden leak. These stains might appear as discolored spots that gradually spread over time as water slowly seeps into the building’s structural components. Unrepaired leaks can cause mold growth and wood rot and compromise your building’s structural integrity. Repairing extensive damage can be expensive.

Water stains also hurt your building’s aesthetic appeal and are an eyesore. Mold and mildew can contaminate the indoor air and cause your employees to suffer respiratory and other health problems. Water stains can be caused by anything from minor pipe leaks to major water supply line issues.

A professional plumber can trace the leak’s source, identify its severity, and address it before it worsens. You can prevent further damage and preserve your building’s value and your employees’ safety when you address leaks promptly with a commercial plumber’s help.

Unusual Sounds Coming From Pipes or Fixtures

Strange noises like rattling, banging, or whistling from pipes or fixtures often suggest underlying plumbing issues that need prompt attention. Banging noises can occur when the water flow is suddenly forced to stop, causing pressure surges. The increased pressure can damage pipes over time and increase the risk of leaks or pipe bursts. Pressure surges also decrease your plumbing system’s efficiency.

Another sound to watch for is gurgling, which typically indicates blocked drains or air trapped in the pipes. This sound may also signal that wastewater isn’t flowing smoothly, eventually leading to sewage backups, unsanitary conditions, and foul smells.

Commercial plumbing systems are much more complex than residential systems and require expert diagnosis to understand the root of unusual sounds. Hiring commercial plumbing services protects your pipes and your building’s smooth water flow.

Draining Issues: Slow or Backed-Up Drains

Slow or backed-up drains are an obvious sign that something is wrong with your plumbing system. Drains in commercial buildings tend to get clogged faster because of high usage volume and frequent buildups of debris, grease and foreign objects. Clogs deep inside pipes can cause slow drainage problems. If you don’t treat them, they can completely block your pipes and lead to floods and other problems.

Persistent slow or backed-up drains can cause foul odors and an unsanitary environment in kitchens or restrooms. Over time, blockages can damage the pipes and cause cracks or pipe bursts that require extensive repairs. You should call a commercial plumber if you can’t unclog a drain by plunging it or using a snake. They have equipment like hydro-jetting tools and sewer cameras to remove clogs and restore proper drainage. Routine maintenance and timely intervention will help keep your drains flowing freely and reduce the risk of future plumbing emergencies.

Foul Odors Indicating Possible Sewer Problems

Bad smells coming from drains, bathrooms, or the building’s basement are signs you have a sewer problem. Foul odors indicate that sewage or gas isn’t properly vented or drained. This could be due to a sewer line backup, a broken sewer vent, or a clogged drain causing wastewater to accumulate in pipes. Sewer gases can be hazardous to inhale, and wastewater exposure can lead to illness.

In commercial properties, restrooms and other water-using facilities are used frequently. Sewer problems can escalate quickly and require immediate attention. Sewer-related issues are health hazards and create an extremely unpleasant environment for employees and clients, which can reflect poorly on your business. A professional plumber can inspect the sewer system, locate the source of the smell and clear any blockages from the pipes and vents. Proper sewer line maintenance is critical for health and sanitation in any commercial setting, but it is especially true for businesses in the hospitality and healthcare sectors.

Increased Water Bills Without Explanation

Unexpected water bill spikes can indicate plumbing system problems. Your bills can increase because of hidden leaks, constantly running toilets or malfunctioning equipment. All of these issues can lead to excessive water consumption. Even a small leak can translate to significant water loss and higher utility costs in large commercial buildings.

An unexplained rise in water costs warrants investigation. Unattended leaks waste water and contribute to long-term structural issues. A commercial plumber can conduct a thorough inspection to identify any leaks. They can also suggest water-saving upgrades that could benefit your building long-term. Addressing leaks and inefficiencies will help you control expenses and conserve water. Reducing water waste can also enhance your company’s reputation.