Commercial Plumbing Blog

Emergency Plumbing Services: What to Do When a Crisis Strikes

January 2, 2024 By Action Plumbing

Introduction

When it comes to running a successful business, few things can disrupt the day-to-day operations like a sudden plumbing emergency. From a burst pipe flooding your reception area to a backed-up toilet in your customer restroom, these crises demand immediate attention and swift action. Not only can they cause significant property damage, but they can also lead to lost revenue, health hazards, and a tarnished reputation if not handled promptly and effectively. Understanding what to do in these situations is crucial for any business owner or facility manager. This guide aims to prepare you for such unforeseen events, ensuring that a plumbing problem doesn’t turn into a plumbing catastrophe.

Identifying Common Plumbing Emergencies

Recognizing what constitutes a plumbing emergency is the first step in effective crisis management. Some common issues that businesses often face include:

Burst Pipes: These can lead to extensive water damage and are often caused by freezing temperatures or aging infrastructure. Signs include a sudden drop in water pressure, water stains on walls, or pooling water.
Severe Leaks: Whether from a faulty faucet, broken pipe, or compromised appliance connections, leaks can quickly escalate, causing damage to floors, walls, and essential equipment.
Clogged Drains and Toilets: A frequent issue in commercial settings, especially those with high public usage. Overflowing or backed-up drains can create unsanitary conditions and disrupt normal business operations.
Sewer System Backup: Perhaps the most distressing, these can lead to health hazards and require immediate professional attention. Indicators include multiple drain clogs, bad odors, and gurgling sounds from toilet bowls.

Immediate Steps to Take in a Plumbing Emergency

When faced with a plumbing emergency, taking immediate action can help mitigate damage and pave the way for a smoother resolution:

Shut Off the Water: The first step in any water-related emergency is to stop the flow. Locate and turn off the nearest water valve. In cases of major leaks or bursts, you may need to shut off the main water supply to the building.
Assess the Situation Safely: Quickly assess the area for safety hazards such as electrical risks or structural damage. Avoid entering areas where the water may have reached electrical outlets or appliances.
Alert the Necessary Parties: Inform your staff and customers of the issue and, if necessary, evacuate the affected area. This ensures everyone’s safety and allows for easier access for repair work.
Document the Damage: If it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. This documentation can be invaluable when filing a claim.

How to Minimize Damage Before Help Arrives

Once you’ve taken the initial steps to handle a plumbing emergency, it’s vital to minimize further damage while waiting for professional help. Here are some effective strategies:

Contain the Water Spread: Use mops, towels, or buckets to manage the water spread. If the leak is from the ceiling, place a bucket underneath to catch drips and move any furniture or equipment out of harm’s way.
Ventilate the Area: Open windows or use fans to ventilate the affected area. This helps in reducing moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Turn Off Electrical Appliances: If water has spread near electrical appliances or outlets, immediately turn off the electricity from the main breaker for safety.
Protect Important Documents and Inventory: If possible, move important documents and inventory to a dry area to prevent water damage.

Choosing the Right Emergency Plumbing Service

Selecting an efficient and reliable plumbing service is crucial in an emergency. Here are key factors to consider:

24/7 Availability: Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Choose a plumbing service that offers round-the-clock response.
Experience with Commercial Plumbing: Ensure the service has experience in handling commercial plumbing systems, which can be more complex than residential ones.
Quick Response Time: Every minute counts. Opt for a service known for its quick response to minimize damage and downtime.
Licensed and Insured: Verify that the plumbing service is fully licensed and insured. This protects your business in case of any further damage during repair work.

The Role of Professional Plumbers in Crisis Resolution

Professional plumbers play a critical role in effectively resolving plumbing emergencies. Here’s what they bring to the table:

Expert Assessment: They can quickly diagnose the issue and determine the best course of action, thanks to their expertise and experience.
Proper Tools and Equipment: Professional plumbers come equipped with the necessary tools and technology to fix the problem efficiently.
Long-term Solutions: Instead of just a temporary fix, they focus on providing solutions that prevent future issues.
Compliance and Safety: They ensure that all repairs comply with local codes and regulations, prioritizing the safety of your business premises and its occupants.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Plumbing Emergencies

While immediate responses to plumbing emergencies are crucial, preventative measures are key to avoiding such situations in the first place. Here’s how you can proactively protect your business:

Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Schedule routine plumbing inspections and maintenance with a professional service. Regular checks can identify and resolve minor issues before they escalate into emergencies.
Upgrade Aging Plumbing Systems: If your building has old pipes and fixtures, consider upgrading them. Newer systems are less prone to failures and can be more efficient.
Train Your Staff: Educate your employees on basic plumbing maintenance and the importance of reporting issues promptly. Awareness can go a long way in preventing major problems.
Install Leak Detection Systems: Advanced leak detection systems can alert you to potential problems early, allowing for immediate action to prevent damage.

Conclusion: The Value of Being Prepared

Dealing with plumbing emergencies in a commercial setting is about quick responses, effective management, and forward-thinking prevention. By understanding the immediate steps to take, knowing how to select the right plumbing service, and implementing preventative strategies, you can safeguard your business against the disruptions and damages caused by plumbing crises. Remember, the key is not just to react swiftly but also to prepare thoroughly. Regular maintenance, staff training, and staying informed about your building’s plumbing health are essential practices. A reliable plumbing partner, like Action Plumbing, can be an invaluable asset in both crisis management and preventive care. Stay prepared, and ensure that a plumbing problem never becomes a plumbing disaster for your business.

Restaurant Plumbing: Key Challenges & Solutions

October 9, 2023 By Action Plumbing

Every restaurant owner knows that a smooth-running establishment requires more than just delicious food and excellent service. Behind the scenes, the plumbing system plays a pivotal role in ensuring everything runs seamlessly. From the kitchen to the restrooms, plumbing issues can quickly escalate, causing disruptions that can affect the restaurant’s operations and reputation. In this article, we’ll delve into common restaurant plumbing problems, how a skilled plumber can address them, the essential supplies for prevention, and the regulations in:

Philadelphia
Delaware
New Jersey

Common Restaurant Plumbing Problems

Grease buildup: One of the most common issues in restaurant plumbing is grease buildup. Grease can solidify in the pipes, causing blockages. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent this.
Drain clogs: Food particles, especially in the kitchen, can lead to drain clogs. It’s crucial to have strainers in place and ensure staff are trained not to dispose of large food particles down the drain.
Leaky faucets and pipes: These can lead to water wastage and increased bills. Regular inspections can help identify and fix any leaks promptly.
Toilet issues: With many customers using the restrooms, toilets can get clogged or run continuously. It’s essential to check them regularly and have a professional plumber on call for emergencies.
Water heater problems: Restaurants require hot water for various tasks. Any issues with the water heater can disrupt the restaurant’s operations

Essential Supplies For Restaurant Plumbing

Grease traps: These are essential for preventing grease from entering the plumbing system.
High-Quality materials: Investing in high-quality materials can prevent frequent breakdowns and leaks. For instance, using stainless steel pipes, known for their corrosion resistance and durability, can significantly reduce the chances of leaks. Brass fittings, another top-quality choice, are known for their longevity and resistance to high temperatures.
Water softeners: Hard water, which contains high mineral content, can damage pipes and fixtures over time. It leads to scale buildup, which can reduce water flow and pressure. One popular water softener brand is Culligan, renowned for its efficiency in removing mineral deposits from water. By installing a water softener, restaurants can prolong the life of their plumbing systems and reduce maintenance costs.
Strainers: These prevent food particles from going down the drain, reducing the chances of clogs.

Preventing Plumbing Disasters in Restaurants

Regular maintenance: Schedule regular plumbing inspections and maintenance. This can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems.
Staff training: Ensure that your staff knows the basics of plumbing care, like not disposing of grease or large food particles down the drain.
Emergency protocols: Have a plan in place for plumbing emergencies. This includes having a professional plumber you can call and ensuring staff knows where the main water shut-off is.
Invest in quality: Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to plumbing materials and appliances. It might seem like a saving now, but it can lead to more significant expenses in the long run.

Plumbing Regulations for Restaurants

New Jersey Plumbing Regulations for Restaurants

Plumbing Fixtures: Plumbing fixtures should be provided in numbers as specified in the building occupancy table. Drinking water facilities for customers are not required in restaurants or other food service establishments if drinking water service is available. Kitchen sinks and bar sinks can be used for employee drinking water facilities. In food preparation areas, fixture requirements might be dictated by local Health Codes. Fixtures for customers and employees can be centrally located and serve multiple establishments, especially in malls and transportation terminals. If the design number of customers in food handling establishments exceeds 100, separate facilities for employees and customers are required. Source
General Regulations:Drain and vent piping should not be located above food preparation, storage, display, or serving areas where possible. If they must be installed above such areas, the amount of piping and the number of pipe joints should be minimized. Drain and vent piping above such areas should be subjected to a standing water test. Piping subject to operation at temperatures that may cause condensation on the external surfaces of the pipe should be thermally insulated to prevent condensation. Source
Plumbing System: All plumbing systems should be designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in accordance with the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing facilities, toilets, or urinals should be easily cleanable. Source

Delaware Plumbing Regulations for Restaurants

Plumbing program mission: The mission of the Plumbing Permit and Inspection Program in Delaware is to enforce the Delaware Plumbing Code in line with basic plumbing principles and regulatory requirements. The program provides rules and regulations for the construction of plumbing facilities where mandated, including restaurants.
Food establishments: All food establishments in Delaware, including restaurants, must follow the plumbing requirements set forth by the Division of Public Health and submit a plan review for approval. The program ensures the construction of plumbing facilities adheres to the state’s plumbing code and regulatory requirements.
Inspections: Licensed plumbers and DIY homeowners must have an approved permit before starting work and to receive an inspection. All plumbing installations must be ready when called in with provisions for the plumbing inspector to access the property. Plumbing must be visible to pass inspection, and properties cannot obtain a certificate of occupancy without passing the plumbing inspection.
Fees: The Division of Public Health charges a $100 fee for plumbing permits. All permit fees are payable by check or money order only. The fees are used to provide program staff and infrastructure to protect public health.
Regulations: The Delaware Public Health Plumbing Permit and Inspection Program utilizes the 2021 International Plumbing Code as Delaware’s plumbing code along with Delaware specific amendments.

Pennsylvania plumbing regulations for restaurants

Water source and quality

Drinking water should be obtained from an approved source, either a public water system or a non-public water system that adheres to the law.
Non-drinking water can only be used for non-culinary purposes like air conditioning, non-food equipment cooling, and fire protection.
Water from a non-public water system should be sampled and tested at least annually.
The water source and system should be of sufficient capacity to meet the peak water demands of the food establishment.

Plumbing System

The plumbing system and hoses conveying water should be constructed and repaired with approved materials.
A plumbing system should be designed, constructed, and installed according to the law.
Backflow or backsiphonage prevention devices should meet the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (A.S.S.E.) standards.

Handwashing Sinks

A handwashing sink should be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least 29.4°C (85°F) through a mixing valve or combination faucet.
An air gap between the water supply inlet and the flood level rim of the plumbing fixture should be at least twice the diameter of the water supply inlet.
Handwashing sinks should be located for convenient use by employees in food preparation, food dispensing, and warewashing areas.

Service Sink

At least one service sink or curbed cleaning facility with a floor drain should be provided for cleaning mops or similar wet floor cleaning tools and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste.

Backflow Prevention

A plumbing system should prevent backflow of a solid, liquid, or gas contaminant into the water supply system at each point of use in the food establishment.
Backflow prevention devices should be installed to preclude backflow and should either provide an air gap or be an approved backflow prevention device.

Toilets and Urinals

At least one toilet should be provided, and the number of toilets should not be fewer than what the law requires.

These regulations ensure that restaurants maintain a high standard of hygiene and safety, especially concerning water and waste management. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to prevent any health hazards and ensure the well-being of both the staff and the customers.

For more detailed information or specific sections, you can refer to the FDA Food Code 2022 provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

It’s important to note that these are just summaries of the regulations, and there might be more detailed requirements and exceptions. If you’re planning to open or renovate a restaurant in these states, it would be advisable to consult with a local expert or authority to ensure full compliance with all regulations.

Conclusion

Restaurant plumbing can be a daunting task, especially when considering the myriad of regulations and standards that establishments must adhere to. From ensuring the quality of water sources to implementing proper backflow prevention, restaurants in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of hygiene and safety. High-quality materials and water softeners play a pivotal role in preventing breakdowns, leaks, and the detrimental effects of hard water on plumbing systems.

But, with challenges come solutions. For restaurant owners and managers, partnering with a trusted plumbing service can make all the difference. At Action Plumbing, we pride ourselves on our deep industry knowledge, commitment to quality, and our ability to navigate and comply with regional regulations. Whether you’re facing a plumbing emergency or seeking preventive maintenance, our team is equipped to ensure your restaurant’s plumbing system runs smoothly, keeping your operations efficient and your customers satisfied.

Why Your Business Needs a Commercial Grease Trap

September 25, 2023 By Action Plumbing

What is a Commercial Grease Trap?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s first understand what a commercial grease trap is. Simply put, it’s a plumbing device designed to intercept grease and solids before they enter the wastewater disposal system. This is particularly crucial for restaurants, cafeterias, and other food-related businesses where fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are a daily byproduct.

Before delving into the essentials, let’s demystify what a commercial grease trap is. It’s a pivotal plumbing apparatus designed to intercept grease and solids, preventing them from entering the wastewater disposal system. This is paramount for restaurants, cafeterias, and other food-related enterprises where fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are daily byproducts.

The Necessity of Commercial Grease Traps:

Legal Obligations: Having a grease trap is not just crucial but often a legal mandate. Local municipalities and health departments impose stringent regulations regarding FOG disposal. Non-compliance can lead to severe fines and possible business closure.
Environmental Conservation: Grease traps are environmental saviors, capturing FOG and averting them from blocking the sewage system, thus preventing overflows and contamination of local water bodies.
Operational Proficiency: For any food industry business, a blocked drain is disastrous. Grease traps preserve the efficiency of your plumbing system, averting operational disruptions and expensive repairs.

Diverse Types of Grease Traps:

Passive Traps: Compact units typically located under sinks, suitable for smaller food establishments but necessitate regular cleaning.
Gravity Interceptors: Larger, in-ground units ideal for handling substantial volumes of FOG, perfect for expansive restaurants and commercial kitchens.
Automatic Grease Removal Units: The pinnacle of advancement, these units autonomously eliminate accumulated FOG, diminishing the need for manual cleaning.

Selecting the Optimal Grease Trap:

When choosing a grease trap, ponder over its size, material, and location. Ensure it can accommodate your business’s wastewater volume, and consider the pros and cons of different materials like stainless steel, fiberglass, and plastic. The installation location, whether indoor or outdoor, also influences your choice.

Maintenance – A Priority:

Maintaining your grease trap is pivotal for its effective functionality. Some enterprises prefer professional services, while others manage it internally. Regardless, optimal conditions are crucial for averting plumbing complications and adhering to local norms.

A commercial grease trap is not merely a legal requisite but a cornerstone for responsible business conduct. It safeguards the environment and ensures the seamless operation of your establishment. If you haven’t installed one, it’s high time to act.

Additional Insights:

Grease traps are instrumental for businesses, especially in the food sector, to manage waste effectively. They are designed to trap FOG, which are byproducts in kitchens, and their significance extends beyond legal compliance to environmental protection and operational efficiency. To understand more about what grease traps are used for, you can refer to this informative article.

For specialized services related to grease trap cleaning, you can explore Action Plumbing’s grease trap cleaning services.

Understanding the Mechanism of Grease Traps:

Grease traps operate on the principle that FOG (fats, oils, and grease) are lighter than water and will float to the surface. When wastewater enters the grease trap, it cools down, allowing the FOG to separate and rise to the top, while solids settle at the bottom. The clarified water in the middle layer then flows out to the sewer system, leaving the FOG and solids confined within the trap.

Importance of Regular Cleaning:

Regular cleaning of grease traps is crucial to prevent FOG and solids from accumulating and blocking the outlet pipe, leading to backups and overflows. Professional grease trap cleaning services ensure that the traps are thoroughly cleaned, and the accumulated waste is disposed of responsibly, maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the grease trap.

Grease Trap Sizing and Installation:

Choosing the right size of grease trap is essential to meet the demands of your kitchen. A grease trap that is too small will require frequent cleaning and may not capture all the FOG, while a large one may lead to foul odors due to infrequent cleaning. Proper installation by qualified plumbing services is also crucial to ensure optimal performance and compliance with local regulations.

Economic and Environmental Benefits:

Implementing grease traps can lead to economic benefits by avoiding costly repairs due to blocked drains and potential fines for non-compliance with waste disposal regulations. Moreover, by preventing FOG from entering the sewer system, grease traps contribute to environmental conservation by reducing the risk of sewer overflows and contamination of water bodies.

Innovations in Grease Trap Technology:

Advancements in technology have led to the development of more efficient and user-friendly grease traps. Automatic Grease Removal Units (AGRU) are equipped with a built-in heater to melt solidified grease, and a wheel mechanism to skim the floating grease into a waste container, reducing the frequency of manual cleaning.

Mandatory Implementation of Grease Traps:

Commercial grease traps are not just essential components for restaurants and cafeterias, but they are mandatory for all establishments preparing hot food, whether for the public or staff. This requirement is crucial to ensure the proper disposal of FOG and to maintain the integrity of the wastewater disposal system. The sites where grease traps are obligatory include:

Hotels: To manage the extensive kitchen waste produced daily.
Schools and Colleges: To handle the waste from food prepared in cafeterias.
Restaurants: Essential due to the constant production of FOG in the kitchen.
Pubs and Inns: To manage waste from both beverage and food preparation.
Cafes: Necessary due to the frequent use of oils and fats in food preparation.
Take Aways: Crucial due to the high volume of food prepared daily.
Conference Centres: To handle the waste from large-scale food preparation during events.
Bakeries: Required due to the use of fats and oils in baking.
Food Manufacturers: Essential for managing waste from food production processes.
Canteens at Factories and Offices: To manage waste from daily food preparation for staff.
Golf Courses: Necessary for managing waste from food services provided at the venue.
Sports Venues: Crucial for handling waste from the extensive food services available during events.

Conclusion:

The mandatory implementation of grease traps across various establishments underscores their significance in maintaining a sustainable and efficient waste disposal system. By adhering to this requirement, establishments can contribute to environmental conservation and avoid legal repercussions related to waste disposal.

Commercial Plumbing: The Expert Edge for Your Business

September 11, 2023 By Action Plumbing

When it comes to running a business, the last thing you want to worry about is plumbing. Yet, plumbing issues can wreak havoc on your operations. This guide aims to shed light on the importance of commercial plumbing services and why you should consider hiring licensed commercial plumbers and plumbing experts for your business needs.

Why Commercial Plumbing Matters

Commercial plumbing is not just about fixing a leaky faucet; it’s a complex service that ensures the smooth running of your business. From maintaining the plumbing system to emergency repairs, commercial plumbing services cover a broad spectrum of needs.

Key Services Offered:

Emergency Plumbing
Preventative Maintenance Plans
Sewer & Drain Cleaning
Grease Trap Cleaning
Commercial Backflow Services
Pipe Lining & Bursting
Video Camera Inspection
Hydro Jetting

Action Plumbing is a reputable service provider offering a range of commercial plumbing services in the tri-state area.

The Role of Licensed Commercial Plumbers

Licensed commercial plumbers bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. They are trained to handle complex plumbing systems and offer quality professional work from start to finish. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major installation, these experts ensure that the job is done right the first time.

Why Hire Licensed Commercial Plumbers?

Expertise: They have the skills and knowledge to handle any repair.
Quality Work: Licensed plumbers adhere to industry standards.
24/7 Availability: Many offer emergency services around the clock.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that a professional is handling your plumbing can be reassuring.

Commercial Sprinkler Services

Fire safety is a major concern for businesses. Commercial sprinkler services form an integral part of a building’s safety measures. These systems are designed to detect and control fire, providing an additional layer of security for your business.

Sewer and Drain Cleaning

Clogged drains can be a nightmare for businesses. Action Plumbing offers commercial drain cleaning services that can help you tackle this issue effectively. They use advanced techniques like hydro jetting to clear out blockages and ensure smooth flow.

Video Camera Inspection

Identifying the root cause of a plumbing issue can be challenging. However, with video camera inspection, plumbers can get a clear view of what’s happening inside the pipes. This technology allows for accurate diagnosis and effective solutions.

Hydro Jetting

When traditional methods fail, hydro jetting comes to the rescue. This technique uses high-velocity water pressure to clear out blockages. It’s an environmentally friendly and highly effective way to clean sewer and drain lines.

Conclusion

Commercial plumbing services are essential for the smooth operation of any business. By hiring licensed commercial plumbers and plumbing experts, you can ensure that all your plumbing needs are met professionally. Whether it’s regular maintenance or emergency repairs, these experts have got you covered.

Sewer Solutions: Seamless Commercial Maintenance

August 28, 2023 By Action Plumbing

Running a business requires dealing with numerous challenges, and among the least pleasant of these are issues related to your building’s sewer system. Sewer problems can lead to severe disruptions, potential health hazards, and an unpleasant environment for your employees and customers. But with Professional Commercial Sewer Services, you can keep these issues at bay and ensure an uninterrupted flow for your business operations.

The Necessity of Professional Commercial Sewer Services

A well-maintained and functioning sewer system is a crucial aspect of any commercial building. Over time, this system may develop issues such as blockages, leaks, or even complete breakdowns, causing not only operational disruptions but also health and safety concerns.

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs from Professional Commercial Sewer Services can prevent these issues from arising. As they say, prevention is always better than cure.

Action Plumbing: Your Solution for Commercial Sewer Services

At Action Plumbing, we offer Professional Commercial Sewer Services designed to prevent disruptions, maintain optimal flow, and prolong the lifespan of your sewer system.

Comprehensive Sewer and Drain Cleaning

Our Sewer & Drain Cleaning service is designed to clear any blockages and maintain optimal flow in your sewer system. Using modern techniques like hydro jetting, we can remove even the toughest obstructions.

Preventative Maintenance

Prevention is the heart of what we do. Through our Preventative Maintenance program, we provide regular inspections and servicing to detect and rectify any potential issues before they escalate.

Sewer Odor Detection

Unpleasant smells can be a sign of a sewer issue. Our Sewer Odor Detection service helps identify and rectify the source of any unwanted odors.

Emergency Repairs

Sewer emergencies can occur at any time and need immediate attention. Our team of Licensed Commercial Plumbers is always on standby to respond swiftly and efficiently to any emergency situation.

The Benefits of Professional Commercial Sewer Services

Choosing to invest in our Professional Commercial Sewer Services comes with a host of benefits:

Reduced Disruptions: Regular maintenance and prompt repairs ensure your business operations continue uninterrupted.
Enhanced Hygiene and Safety: A well-maintained sewer system reduces the risk of health hazards.
Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your sewer system is in the hands of professionals gives you peace of mind to focus on what you do best – running your business.

Join Our Team

Are you a professional plumber interested in joining our team of Licensed Commercial Plumbers providing Professional Commercial Sewer Services? Visit our Employment and Career pages to learn more.

Contact Us

If you’re experiencing sewer issues or want to schedule preventative maintenance, reach out to us at Action Plumbing. Our team of experts is ready to handle all your sewer system needs.

Don’t forget to check out our coupons for some great deals!

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