Has your commercial building sat empty for months? An extended vacancy may have you walking into a plumbing time bomb. Empty buildings hide silent plumbing problems that can surface dramatically when normal operations resume. From dangerous bacterial growth to deteriorating seals, vacant buildings need special attention before welcoming back occupants.
Initial System Assessment
Before resuming normal operations after an extended vacancy, a methodical evaluation of your building’s entire plumbing system becomes critical. Extended vacancy creates unique challenges throughout water systems, from standing water in pipes to deteriorating seals and fixtures.
Critical Checkpoints:
Comprehensive testing reveals hidden problems:
• Professional water quality testing for bacteria and contaminants
• Complete pipe integrity inspection using camera systems
• Detailed fixture operation verification at every point
• Thorough drain line assessment with professional equipment
Building Assessment Zones:
Different areas need specific attention:
• Basement and lower-level plumbing integrity
• Main floor fixture and drain operation
• Upper floor pressure and flow testing
• Roof drain and vent system inspection
Water System Flushing
Proper flushing removes stagnant water and prevents serious health risks. This process requires systematic execution to ensure complete system clearing:
Systematic Approach:
Follow proven protocols:
• Begin from lowest building level to ensure proper drainage
• Run cold water first to clear main supply lines
• Progress through hot water systems methodically
• Document all flushing procedures for compliance
Time Requirements:
Different systems need varying flush times:
• Main supply lines: 10-15 minutes minimum
• Hot water tanks: Complete drainage and refill
• Drinking water lines: Extended flushing
• Safety system lines: Complete circulation
Equipment Reactivation
Water-using equipment needs specific attention after extended shutdown. Each system presents unique challenges requiring professional assessment:
Priority Systems:
Focus on critical equipment:
• Water heaters require complete inspection and testing
• Cooling towers need thorough cleaning and treatment
• Drinking fountains demand sanitization and filter change
• Ice machines require professional cleaning and restart
System-Specific Procedures:
Each piece of equipment needs:
• Professional inspection before restart
• Complete cleaning and sanitization
• Component testing and verification
• Performance monitoring after activation
Ongoing Monitoring
After reactivation, maintain careful oversight of all systems. Regular monitoring prevents new problems from developing:
Watch Points:
Monitor these crucial areas:
• Water quality through regular testing
• System pressure at multiple points
• Fixture operation and performance
• Drain flow and ventilation
Documentation Requirements:
Maintain records of:
• Daily system checks
• Water quality results
• Pressure readings
• Equipment performancee
Professional inspections ensure the safe maintaining of building plumbing prior to reoccupations. For expert commercial services across Milton, Georgetown, Oakville, Burlington, Halton Hills, Flamborough, Acton, and Puslinch, contact Plumbing Dunn Right through our website or call 905-699-3540.
