Commercial plumbing is on a much larger scale than residential plumbing. It takes more money to invest in different pipes and connectors, as well as more time.
In addition to installing and repairing toilets, sinks, and drains, commercial plumbers also service sprinkler systems in restaurants and theatres. They also do hydro-jetting and drain snaking to keep clogs at bay.
Portable Water System
The plumbing system transports potable water, also known as drinking water throughout a building to end-points such as fixtures, faucets, shower heads, laundry machines, dishwashers and hose bibs. The plastic piping materials represented by PPI’s Building & Construction Division are designed and certified for hot and cold water plumbing distribution.
Non-potable water sources include rainwater, reclaimed/recycled water and greywater (water that has been used for activities other than human consumption such as cooling equipment). Many engineers and architects have a keen interest in using these types of systems due to their ability to contribute to sustainable living and green projects.
The plumbing code states that the piping conveying potable water shall be identified with color codes to indicate its use. The standard color for “do not drink” is purple. This is typically done by painting three inch wide bands of the color on piping that passes through walls, floors and roof penetrations. In addition, the outlet locations for potable water must be marked with a metal tag that identifies the type of water.
Water Main
The water main is responsible for distributing fresh, clean drinking water throughout your commercial property. These large pipes are buried underground and can be susceptible to various problems over time. From heavy rains to age-related issues, the water lines may become weakened or leak.
Leaks in a commercial plumbing system are more likely to occur due to the heavier usage and stress placed on these pipes. The best way to avoid a major issue is by scheduling regular maintenance for the plumbing pipes and connectors.
Galvanized iron pipes are ideal for commercial plumbing applications. They are hardy and easy to maintain, making them a great choice for many heavy-duty commercial projects. They also work well for sewage treatment and irrigation systems. Other common piping materials include copper and brass. These pipes are often located under sidewalks and roads, so they must be able to withstand both internal and external forces. They must also resist corrosion, both from inside the pipes and from corrosive soil.
Sanitary Drainage System
A sanitary drainage system is the piping within buildings that conveys sewage and other waste materials to an approved point of disposal. The drainage system must be sized and constructed to function reliably without over- or under-drainage. It should also be constructed of quality materials and fittings, joined using methods regulated by codes and standards.
The sanitary drainage system includes the building sewer, which conveys the blackwater from all fixtures to the centralized sewage treatment plant. It also includes drains for food-handling equipment and clear water wastes, as well as a vent stack that connects the vent openings at the top of the roof to atmospheric pressure.
The system must be pitched to maintain a velocity designed to keep solids in suspension, and the pitch shall not drop below 1/4 inch per foot at any point upstream of the liquid seal level of a fixture trap. All connections and changes in direction of drainage piping shall be made with approved drainage fittings, and they must not have ledges or shoulders that could retard or obstruct flow.
Clean Running Water
If people work in a commercial building they need clean water to wash hands, rinse dishes, flush toilets and more. Water always finds its way and when drains get clogged or something prevents water from going where it needs to go problems occur. Restaurants especially must take care to use grease traps to ensure certain materials don’t enter the drain system and clog them up. These things can create health hazards and lead to a variety of issues.
