Floor drains are an essential largely unnoticed part of most commercial plumbing, found everywhere from restaurants and manufacturing facilities to warehouses and hospitals. They are designed to remove and redirect excess water and liquids from floors into the building’s drainage system, helping to prevent water damage while protecting employees, customers, and others from dangerous slip-and-fall accidents.
Unfortunately, commercial floor drains are prone to clogs and buildup due to the amount of traffic and debris they encounter daily. Clogged floor drains present not only a health and safety issue but can also lead to unpleasant smells and more significant plumbing issues.
This blog will explore why commercial floor drains get clogged and what you can do to keep your drains flowing.
Why Are My Commercial Floor Drains Clogged?
Commercial facilities are far more likely than residential homes to encounter drainage issues because of how they are used.
For example, food debris is one of the most common causes of floor drain clogs in restaurants and other food establishments. Over time, all the bits of food, grease, and other debris that get washed down the drain begin to collect and cause blockages. Hotels and gyms frequently need to deal with a drainage company to help with clogs caused by accumulated hair. In other cases, hard water may be the culprit. In Burnaby, high levels of mineral deposits in water can also gradually build up and lead to blockages.
Soaps and cleaning agents are other factors that can contribute heavily to floor drain clogs. When these products mix with water, they can create a thick, soapy residue that can clog the drain.
Four Tips on Avoiding Commercial Drain Clogs
Keeping your floor drains clear requires regular maintenance and a little preventative attention.
1. Clean Your Floor Drains Regularly
Regular cleaning is the best way to prevent floor drain clogs. Depending on the level of use, you should clean your floor drains at least once a month. Doing this not only helps to avoid blockages but also keeps floor drains from drying out. Hot, soapy water is a simple, inexpensive way to clean out floor drains. Otherwise, you can try a commercial drain cleaner, although many drainage companies advise against using products with harsh chemicals which can damage your pipes.
2. Dispose of Waste Properly
Not all waste can go down the drain; things like grease, dirt, and debris should not go into floor drains. In commercial kitchens, you can install grease traps to prevent grease and oil from entering the drain, and employees should receive training on how to dispose of food debris and other waste properly.
3. Install Drain Screens
In other areas, drain screens can be used to help prevent debris, hair, and other materials from entering the drain. These screens are easy to install and can be cleaned and reused multiple times.
4. Check Your Pressure
Good water pressure can also help prevent commercial floor drain clogs. When the pressure is too low, it can be difficult for water and waste to flow through the drain. Having a draining company in Burnaby regularly inspect and maintain your water pressure can help prevent clogs and other plumbing issues.
Commercial floor drains are an essential part of your business. Don’t get bogged down by frustrating clogs; follow these tips and have your drains regularly checked by a qualified drainage company in Burnaby.
