Most of the time, we don’t even notice that our floors have drains. Although floor drains are most commonly associated with public bathrooms and showers, they can also be found in other settings, such as a garage, laundry room, or industrial kitchen. They are an often-overlooked part of public sanitation systems.
Floor drains in commercial buildings collect wastewater from sources such as sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, and rain and adequately transport it to a sewage treatment facility or municipal storm drain. Doing so may prevent flooding and maintain a clean, dry floor.
Commercial floor drains require regular maintenance if they are to function properly. Clogged drains do not function correctly and create even more mess than a dried-out drain emits. Maintaining clean and functional drains is essential for any business.
When to Clean Commercial Drains
About twice a year, drains should be cleaned out to guarantee that the plumbing and drain systems in a commercial building are properly cleaned. As for commercial and industrial drains, once a year or more frequently, if necessary, is the recommended frequency of maintenance. This will ensure that cleaning occurs often enough to prevent maintenance concerns from building up but not so often that it becomes prohibitively expensive or inconvenient. Maintaining your business’s drains is another task that can easily be forgotten without a regular maintenance schedule.
The Importance of Regular Commercial Drain Cleanings
A common saying states, “If it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind.” This is the leading cause of improper drain and plumbing maintenance in commercial buildings.
Owners of commercial properties are typically very active people with many responsibilities. In general, people give little thought to their plumbing and drains regularly. After all, the plumbing was installed during construction and has never given anyone any trouble. I don’t see why it wouldn’t keep doing well.
Commercial plumbing maintenance may not initially seem a priority for some property owners. Still, if a serious issue like a clogged drain or overflow happens, it might become evident that it is essential.
Commercial drain cleaning can be challenging, especially when determining when to begin. In the absence of a regular cleaning routine, it’s easy for the task to seem impossible. The risk of backups, flooding, and water damage can be reduced at your commercial property by scheduling regular drain cleanings.
Suggestions for Commercial Drain Cleaning
Follow these professional tips to clean your commercial drains thoroughly every month.
Flushing the Water System Routinely
Frequent water flushes are one of the best methods for keeping commercial drains clean. To perform a water flush, turn on your faucets at once and let hot water flow for around 15 minutes. Regarding your plumbing system and drain pipes, the hot water will help flush out loose dirt and clogged material.
Don’t Use Harmful Chemicals When Cleaning Drains
Cleaning with chemicals can seem like the best option when removing obstructions, but excessive use can lead to greater damage. The corrosive components in these cleansers can damage your pipes regardless of the material they are made of (PVC, copper, galvanized steel, or iron).
Worn pipes are more likely to spring leaks. Dealing with such a problem is more time- and money-consuming than fixing a clogged drain.
You must be careful with those chemical cleaners, which can cause injury if misused. You could suffer severe injuries if you come into contact with them or breathe in their vapors. Replace toxic chemical cleaners with milder options like baking soda and vinegar.
If you must use chemical cleaners, you should be familiar with their safe handling and storage to avoid injury and pipe damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions, and only combine chemicals if you are sure of the outcome.
Have Your Drains Jetted
A professional drain jet service may be necessary for more persistent blockages. A drain jetting service will use pressurized water pumped via a hose with a specialized nozzle to clean pipes.
This pressurized stream of water is sprayed into the drain and pipes to loosen obstructions. This method effectively removes obstructions and can also be used for regular maintenance. To prevent the buildup of fats, oils, grease, and other debris that might clog pipes over time, consider jetting your drains.
If you empty your pipes regularly, you may increase their flow and performance and get them back to top condition.
Since water is usually the sole cleaner used in drain jetting, it is safer for your pipes and better for the environment than caustic chemicals. You can rest assured that your pipes, property, and the environment will be safe from harm thanks to this method for cleaning industrial and commercial drains.
Suggestions for Long-Term Care
Regular plumbing maintenance is the best against clogs, overflows, and leaks. Keeping the plumbing and drains in your commercial building in good working order is essential.
Regularly Washing with Soapy Water
Mopping the flooring of your industrial property with soapy water is one of the most efficient ways to prevent drain clogs. If business floor drains are mopped infrequently, they might dry up. Put five gallons of soapy water down the drain and clean the floor to prevent drains from drying.
Put in a Snake Drain if Necessary.
A drain auger, often known as a drain snake, is commonly used by professional plumbers to break up pipeline obstructions. You can find drain snakes in any hardware shop, and keeping one on hand is a good idea. If your drains are slow to empty, or if you suspect a clog, you may want to consider using a drain snake once every few months.
Prepare a Drain by Putting in a Cover
Depending on the nature of the business’s operations, a drain cover can reduce the frequency and severity of drain clogs by keeping out unwanted particles and debris.
Contact Your Local Sewer and Drain Specialist
It is best to consult an experienced local sewer and drain cleaning company to advise you on what method is best for repairing your damaged pipe.
At N.W. Sewer & Drain, we have a well-trained and ready-to-move team on standby. We serve the Seattle metropolitan area, including Bellevue, Kirkland, Shoreline, Renton, Lake Forest Park, Mountlake Terrace, Auburn, Everett, Marysville, Mount Vernon, and other surrounding areas.
N.W. Sewer & Drain provides top-notch drain cleaning and sewer repair services in the greater Seattle area, and we’ve been in the business for nearly 20 years. Contact us today at 206-931-7728 to schedule an inspection of your sewer line and pipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the common causes of commercial drain clogs?
Commercial drain clogs often result from the buildup of grease, soap residue, food waste, and even small debris that accumulates over time. In industrial settings, improper disposal of oils, fats, and large food particles can clog pipes. Restaurants, for instance, often face issues with grease clogs, while commercial kitchens and laundromats deal with excess soap scum. These clogs restrict water flow and eventually block the pipes entirely.
Anchor text: Learn more about common drain clogs and causes here.
2. How often should commercial drains be cleaned?
For most businesses, commercial drains should be cleaned at least twice a year. However, high-traffic establishments like restaurants and hotels may need more frequent cleanings, about every three to four months. Regular maintenance ensures that minor clogs don’t escalate into major plumbing issues, saving you money in the long run.
3. What are the signs of a clogged commercial drain?
Some telltale signs of a clogged commercial drain include slow-draining water, gurgling sounds, foul odors, and standing water around drains. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious backups and potential flooding, especially in areas like kitchens and restrooms. Addressing the problem early helps you avoid costly repairs down the line.
4. Is chemical drain cleaner safe for commercial drains?
While chemical drain cleaners can quickly dissolve blockages, they often damage pipes, especially when used frequently. The harsh chemicals can corrode both metal and PVC pipes over time, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Instead, opt for environmentally friendly alternatives like enzyme-based cleaners or seek professional drain jetting services for a more sustainable solution.
Anchor text: Discover safer alternatives to chemical drain cleaners here.
5. Can regular hot water flushing prevent drain clogs?
Yes, flushing your drains with hot water regularly can prevent clogs. Hot water helps dissolve grease, soap, and other residues that accumulate in pipes. For optimal results, it’s best to run hot water through the drains for 10 to 15 minutes weekly. This simple method is effective in reducing the buildup of dirt and debris in your plumbing system.
6. What is drain jetting and how does it work?
Drain jetting involves using high-pressure water jets to clean and clear blocked drains. A professional plumber uses specialized equipment to shoot water through the pipes, removing any debris, grease, or buildup. It’s an eco-friendly and effective solution for commercial drain maintenance, keeping your pipes clean without damaging them.
Anchor text: Explore how drain jetting works in detail here.
7. How can I prevent recurring drain clogs in a commercial kitchen?
To prevent recurring clogs in commercial kitchens, install grease traps to capture fats and oils before they enter the drain. Additionally, scrape off food waste into the trash before washing dishes, and avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain. Regular drain cleaning, both professionally and using hot water flushes, can also reduce the chance of future clogs.
Anchor text: Get tips on preventing kitchen drain clogs here.
8. What happens if commercial drains are not cleaned regularly?
If you neglect regular drain cleaning, you’re looking at clogged pipes, backups, and potential water damage. In severe cases, the clog can cause sewage backup, leading to unpleasant odors and even contamination in commercial kitchens. The cost of dealing with these emergencies far outweighs the expense of regular maintenance.
9. Why is professional drain cleaning better than DIY methods?
While DIY methods like using a plunger or drain snake can provide temporary relief, they often don’t address the root cause of the clog. Professional drain cleaning services use advanced tools like hydro jetting, which completely clears the pipes, removing any built-up debris. This thorough approach minimizes the risk of future clogs and ensures your plumbing system operates efficiently.
10. Are there eco-friendly drain cleaning options for commercial buildings?
Yes, there are eco-friendly drain cleaning solutions, such as enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic waste without harming the pipes or the environment. Drain jetting, which uses high-pressure water, is another eco-friendly method. These alternatives ensure that your commercial drains remain clear without the harmful effects of traditional chemical cleaners.