Plumbing Problems in Commercial Buildings (and How to Catch Them Early)
If you run a business, you’ve got enough on your plate already—staffing, customers, vendors, maybe even a busted ice machine. The last thing you want is for a plumbing issue to throw a wrench in your day.
But here’s the thing: commercial plumbing problems don’t usually show up all at once. They start small—quiet leaks, sluggish drains, a bathroom that never seems to smell quite right—and they build from there.
Here are a few of the most common problems we run into in commercial properties, and how to spot them before they blow up into something bigger.
1. Clogged Drains That Just Keep Coming Back
Whether it’s a restaurant, hair salon, gym, or office—high-use drains take a beating. Grease, soap, hair, and paper all build up fast. If you’ve got a floor drain that backs up every few weeks, or sinks that gurgle like they’re haunted, it’s not just annoying—it’s a warning sign.
2. Drips, Leaks, and “Just a Little Moisture”
It’s easy to write off a dripping faucet or a little dampness under the sink. But over time, those small leaks lead to water damage, mold, and warped cabinetry or floors. Plus, your water bill creeps up quietly month after month. Leaks don’t fix themselves—they get worse.
3. Water Temperature Doing Whatever It Wants
One day it’s scorching. The next it’s lukewarm at best. If your hot water isn’t reliable, especially in kitchens or facilities where it’s critical, your water heater might be struggling. Sediment buildup, wear and tear, or just plain age can knock it out of whack.
4. Sewage Smells That Won’t Go Away
Let’s be blunt—if your restroom or utility room smells like a sewer, it probably means something’s backing up. Dry floor drains, clogged vent lines, or worse—issues in the main sewer line—can all lead to odors that linger. And no one wants to work (or eat lunch) near that.
5. Toilets That Run Like They’re Training for a Marathon
A running toilet seems minor, until you realize it’s quietly wasting hundreds—sometimes thousands—of gallons of water every month. Usually, it’s a flapper or fill valve. Easy fix, if you catch it early.
6. Spikes in the Water Bill, and No One Knows Why
If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill has jumped, something’s leaking somewhere. Slab leaks, hidden pipe issues, or silent toilet problems are often the culprits. And the longer they go undetected, the more damage they can do.
So What Should You Do About It?
You don’t need to panic. But you do need a plan.
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Walk your property regularly. Look under sinks. Listen for running water. Trust your nose.
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Talk to your staff. They’re often the first to notice when something isn’t working like it should.
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Schedule a routine plumbing check once or twice a year. It’s easier (and cheaper) to fix a small problem before it turns into a flooded breakroom.
At My Georgia Plumber, we work with businesses all over North Georgia—restaurants, offices, retail shops, churches, gyms—you name it. Whether you’ve got a problem right now or just want someone to take a look and make sure you’re in good shape, we’ve got your back.
Call us at 770-592-0081 to schedule a visit. No pressure, no upsell. Just honest answers and solid work.
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