What’s the difference between Residential VS Commercial Plumbing

The plumbing system is the lifeblood of any building. It is an intricate collection of pipes, valves, and fittings with one responsibility, to move water from its source, such as a reservoir or a spring, where you need it most!  The world of plumbing can seem like a straightforward system at first glance, with the two common types being residential and commercial. But in reality, there are key differences between them that will help you understand which type is suited for your needs. What are the key differences between the two? Let’s take a closer look!

What is Residential Plumbing?

Residential plumbing is the type of plumbing service that deals with your home. It can include anything from water, sewer and drain lines, heaters, and other drain fixtures.

What is Commercial Plumbing?

Commercial Plumbing is a more technical and complex field that involves servicing more complex water supply systems and plumbing fixtures for various commercial businesses. Some of which are office buildings, large-scale complexes, recreational areas, and structures with multiple floors.

Major Differences Between Residential VS Commercial Plumbing

Job Size

The job size is the most significant difference between residential and commercial plumbing. Plumbing systems for a basic residential home are smaller and simpler than commercial spaces. The size difference also includes the amount of usage. There is only a single household using the system daily in residential plumbing, while in commercial plumbing, there will be hundreds of people using the sinks or toilets. Also, there is far more significant wear and tear on commercial plumbing and larger plumbing servicing needs.

Damage Size

Commercial facilities have much more complex plumbing systems than residential homes, which means they’re also at risk for more damage. Damage in commercial areas can be severe and costly if not taken care of quickly – think about how much worse things would get when your workplace spans multiple floors! When this happens, you need commercial plumbing services in Broken Arrow fast!

Work Hours

The work hours between plumbers are another difference between residential and commercial plumbing. Residential plumbers typically work only during the day, up to 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. While commercial plumbers typically work longer, even on nights and weekends, for up to 60 hours per week. More time and effort are needed in commercial plumbing because this plumbing system is under more pressure and requires more maintenance. Also, commercial plumbers often work outside the usual 9-5 hours to avoid disruptions with customers and employees during the day.

Industry Knowledge and Skills

While all plumbers deal with water and waste flow and drain, commercial plumbers focus on larger projects with greater scopes of work. While residential plumbers know the distinct features of each suburb they work in, they develop specific expertise in a particular area.

Plumbing Equipment Used

Since the type and severity of plumbing demands vary in residential and commercial settings, plumbers work on varying types of plumbing equipment. Residential plumbers typically use hand tools to complete plumbing repairs. For example, they might use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten pipes. Commercial plumbers may use more advanced power tools such as pipe cutters and reamers.  Moreover, although both types of plumbers use safety equipment while on the job, commercial plumbers use the special kind to protect them from excess water pressure, hazardous chemicals, and other dangers on the job site.

Inspection Frequency

Residential and commercial plumbing services also differ on inspection frequency. Residential inspections are typically done every two (2) years, while commercial inspections may be done yearly or more frequently. Residential systems are less likely to need frequent inspections because they do not handle as much water pressure or use chemicals that require regular monitoring. Additionally, residential plumbers may only focus on inspecting interior fixtures, while commercial plumbers may be responsible for examining the entire system.

Health Care Laws

Health care laws and good hygiene are important for homes, but they are far more critical in commercial buildings. The need for stricter health care laws in commercial buildings is because more people tend to visit them, especially those who work there. Because of this, commercial plumbers must use a different set of plumbing fixtures. These are often easier to clean and drain off quickly to prevent contamination and health issues from arising.

Water Heaters

The difference between residential and commercial heaters is significant. For one, the size of their tanks varies depending on how much water they need to produce – an average home will use around 100 gallons while businesses can require 250-gallon capacities for hot water, showers, or baths! Commercial heaters also hold more gas to keep it running all day long. Also, they are often located in multiple locations that need heat throughout the building or complex, whereas residential heaters are only installed at one place.

Working with Others

Plumbers are often called in to fix many different plumbing problems, and they work independently or as part of teams. Residential plumbers can work alone or with another colleague, while commercial plumbers need instructions from engineers, architects, and construction managers on how the project should be carried out.

Personal Interactions with Clients

Residential plumbers tend to enjoy their personal interactions with homeowners. Such interactions include quick tutorials on routine plumbing maintenance, chats, tips, advice products, and an appreciation for a well-done job. These personal exchanges then lead to the valuable connection otherwise absent with large, commercial plumbing projects.

Commercial Licenses

When it comes to working on plumbing extensions and renovations, residential plumbers must have a commercial license. They will need to study and analyze the building plans and get the necessary permits. But when it comes to general maintenance and repairs, the requirements are different. However, when it comes to large-scale plumbing works, commercial plumbers are required to have the appropriate licenses and insurance and comply with the building standards and codes.  At Infinity Plumbing, we can service all your plumbing requirements in Broken Arrow, OK. We pride ourselves on having the experience and expertise needed for residential and commercial projects! Contact us today for an estimate on our plumbing services that will satisfy and exceed your expectations! (918) 258-1818