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How Often Should I Clean My Commercial Drains?

As a commercial property owner, plumbing issues are probably the very last thing on your mind. However, a major plumbing issue, such as a clogged drain, could result in business interruptions, and worse. Clogged and overflowing drains are not only nasty and unappealing, but they tend to harbor germs and bacteria which could lead to disease. Overflowing drains frequently cause structural damage to properties, and that can cost much more to repair than a scheduled professional cleaning.


Soap, fat and grease are some of the main causes of commercial drain blockages. However, it is not uncommon for people to flush inappropriate materials down drains. In a commercial property, it is important to put up signs that warn people of the dangers of flushing foodstuff, diapers, facial wipes and other unsuitable materials down your drains.

If consumers are exposed to your plumbing issue, it could ruin your reputation, especially in a restaurant, mall or office building. You may be asking: How often should I clean my commercial drains to avoid the embarrassment and inconvenience of plumbing issues?

Commercial property owners often do not have time for regular monthly plumbing maintenance, however, neglect is one of the leading causes of plumbing problems. Pipes deteriorate with age and use, but monthly cleaning can help prevent clogs and ensure that they last much longer.

Prevent Clogs in Your Commercial Drains

It's only common sense that the more you use drains, the quicker they will become clogged. In the foodservice industry, drains quickly clog up with food particles, grease and similar materials. Even in office buildings with fewer people and less use, soap, toilet paper, sanitary products and other items can build up and result in nasty clogs. A small blockage can - in no time - increase in size to such a point where it can prevent waste from flowing through pipes.

Commercial sewage blockages, left untreated, can end up costing thousands of dollars in water damage, plumbing repairs, repairs to property damage, and recovery of lost stock and raw materials.

For that reason, commercial drains require monthly cleanings to remove obstructions.

Here's what you should know about cleaning commercial drains:


Perform regular water flushes to remove loose materials and debris from your drain pipes. Simply allow hot water to run through your pipes for a few minutes.


Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they will cause the interior pipe linings to deteriorate, and your pipes will rust and crack. Instead, use a baking soda and vinegar to break up accumulated fats and grease.

use-a-drain-snake
Use a drain snake or auger to unclog your drain pipes.


If possible, install a drain grate or cover to help stop large pieces of debris from washing into your drains.

If you are responsible for commercial drains on your property, be sure to be vigilant for gurgling or slow-draining fixtures, as those are usually the first signs of a clogged drain. Frequent commercial drain cleaning will not only keep clogs at bay, but it will also improve the lifespan of your pipes and the entire system. Call Anta Plumbing today to schedule a commercial drain cleaning call and to learn how often your drains should be cleaned, based on the type of business you have.

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Written by Anta

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