Simply put, commercial plumbing is the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems in commercial establishments. Commercial buildings are typically large, multi-story structures with extensive pipes, water heaters, and pumps that keep water supply systems flowing smoothly in, out, and within the structure. 

Commercial plumbers handle a wide range of commercial plumbing issues. Some specialize in different types of work within the commercial plumbing industry. A commercial plumber is typically called in even before a building has been constructed. They may help develop the plans for the system that’s about to be installed. Once construction has begun, a commercial plumber is typically involved in installations. 

As the plumbing system is put to use, it needs maintenance and repairs that will also require the help of a commercial plumber. They can update pipes in an old building, reroute water to service a new addition and take care of blockages and burst pipes. Some of these jobs are a lot like what a residential plumber does, but there are important differences. 

What’s The Difference Between Commercial & Residential Plumbing?

You might think a Perth plumber is just a plumber. The truth is that different types of plumbing require different skills, training, equipment, and expertise. Just as commercial properties are much larger than houses, with more rooms and hallways, a commercial system is more complicated than a residential one. 

In a large building like a retail centre or an office complex, there is an extensive pipe system to get water into the establishment and get sewage out. If something goes wrong with that system, it could mean more extensive damage, more costly repairs, and more people inconvenienced than in a home system. 

To complete work on commercial plumbing systems, a plumber may have to employ heavy construction equipment, high-tech sensors, and industrial design skills. Plumbers have to ensure that their work meets local codes and requirements. These regulations protect clients from contractors who cut corners or use inferior materials. Commercial plumbers have to be familiar with the particular codes that regulate commercial work. 

Another difference between commercial and residential plumbing is the wear and tear on the facilities. While residential homes accommodate one family or a few roommates, a commercial property can serve hundreds or thousands of people per day. That’s a lot of activity for all of the pumps, pipes, and boilers to handle even more so if the facility is a pool or spa.

These are just some of the reasons you’ll want to hire a commercial plumber, not a residential plumber, to do a commercial job.

Why Choosing The Right Commercial Plumbing Company Is Important

Unless you have a particular fascination for drainage (if you do, you might consider a plumbing career), you probably don’t think about your pipes very much. That is, of course, until something goes wrong. The reason a plumbing system often goes unnoticed is that most of it are out of sight. If it’s working smoothly, people in the building shouldn’t have to think about it.

That hidden aspect of plumbing is also one thing that makes these systems difficult to work on. Because only a small part of the pipes and fixtures are exposed, a plumber may have to get behind the walls to work on them. That could involve cutting into the wall or removing appliances. This kind of work is not something that inexperienced or unqualified plumbers should do. 

Since the risk of damage is so much higher in a commercial setting, a plumber is under a lot more pressure to get the job done right. Many commercial jobs require working long or very late hours. While an experienced commercial plumber is likely quite used to these conditions, less seasoned workers can’t accommodate rush, overnight jobs.

Insurance on a commercial establishment can sometimes cover damages from leaky plumbing or emergencies caused by faulty plumbing systems. However, it’s important to check the insurance policy closely. Some policies won’t cover the cost of repairs if licensed and certified professionals do not do them.

Types Of Commercial Plumbing Jobs

In addition to design and installation, a commercial plumbing contractor performs a series of essential tasks. These can be regular maintenance duties or emergency repairs. 

• Backflow Prevention: Not only important but mandated by the Australian Standards AS2845. It keeps water from flowing in the wrong direction.
• Burst Pipes: The age, material, and external temperatures of pipes can cause them to burst, causing extensive water damage to wall and floors.
• Commercial Plumbing Maintenance: Regular maintenance helps prevent problems like burst pipes and detect potential weaknesses in the system.
• Grease Trap Installation: Traps are typically installed in commercial kitchens. They keep oils and fats from blocking sewer lines.
• Water Leak Detection: Help find problems like silent leaks that can cost a business a lot of money in wasted water and cause poor water pressure.
• And many more.

How to Choose the Right Commercial Plumber

If your establishment has work that needs commercial plumbing services, be sure to hire a licensed and knowledgeable commercial plumber. Ask to see proof of any licenses or certifications required in your area. You may also be able to look up the company on the Master Plumbers Association website. 

You also need to be careful of commercial plumbing companies with unusually low prices because they may be cutting corners. Ask other business owners or search the internet to find the average price of services in your city. A small bit of due diligence up front will save you time and money in the long run.

Talk to the plumber’s current and past clients. A good plumber will be happy to share their success stories. 

Final Thoughts

When you have a job to do, use the right tools. If you need plumbing on your commercial building maintained or repaired, hire the right person for the job – a commercial plumber. Hiring a trusted, established plumbing professional can help ensure the job gets done right the first time, which will save you money in the long run.