Running a restaurant is a demanding project, where maintaining a smoothly working plumbing system is essential. During a hectic dinner rush, a plumbing disaster is the last thing you want to happen.
So, understanding common plumbing issues is important whether you are a restaurant owner, manager, or staff member. This helps troubleshoot plumbing issues effectively.
Here are some common commercial plumbing issues and strategies to prevent them.
Grease Traps
Restaurant kitchens produce a great amount of grease. It can accumulate and grow mold if the traps aren’t cleaned, eroding the pipes. The pipes need to be replaced, which is expensive if they become damaged.
So, train your staff on how to maintain the grease traps and what to check for if any issues arise. Call a professional plumber If you notice any grease buildup in your pipes.
Sink Drains
Maintain a clean kitchen sink. Do not allow bussers and servers to throw plates with food into the sink. The dishwashing person should spray down plates and pans before they are placed in the sink.
In order to stop debris from slipping down the pipes, you should also place a metal mesh into the drain.
Clogs can occur in your dishwashing system when food and debris accumulate in the pipes, potentially shutting it down.
To ensure that huge debris doesn’t travel down the drains, think about putting a drain lock. Make sure the dishwasher cleans the area entirely at the end of each shift, and instruct them to notify management right away if they see any problems.
Outdated Appliances
Old commercial appliances are the primary source of restaurant plumbing issues. Their pipes are more prone to breaking down and leaking. For example, old dishwashers and laundry appliances have the potential to wastewater excessively and reduce kitchen water pressure.
So, update dishwashers, pipework, faucets, and water heaters. This thing can help to avoid bigger malfunctions and guarantees that leaks don’t harm the area. Furthermore, modern technology uses less water and consumes less energy.
Backed up Plumbing
The most significant issue with restaurant plumbing is the backup of toilets and pipes. Backflow-prone plumbing may pose a health risk and be a symptom of more significant issues.
So, use the following tips to remove some blockages from your bathroom:
- Install signage on flushing sanitary products.
- Increase hand dryer usage to prevent paper towel clogs.
- Regularly monitor restrooms for clogs.
- Keep reliable plumbing company on speed dial.
- Provide accessible garbage receptacles.
Defective Gas Lines
Restaurant owners often use gas stoves and gas ovens for cooking. Therefore, regular maintenance of gas supply pipes is essential.
One of the most dangerous plumbing issues in restaurants is gas leaks. In addition to being bad for the environment, they can start an unplanned fire that could spread to everything.
Moreover, these leaks can cause a fire that can destroy your entire building, potentially causing severe harm to employees and guests.
Dishwasher Issues
Restaurant dishwashers are efficient appliances that can perform numerous tasks, but they can also pose plumbing issues. Inadequate water pressure, Leaks, and improper drainage can affect their performance.
Inspections and routine maintenance can help find and fix these problems early on.
Additionally, training your employees on proper dishwasher usage and maintenance can increase the appliance’s lifespan and prevent avoidable issues.