A Guide to Selecting the Perfect Plumbing Fixtures for Commercial Buildings

Date Posted: May 19, 2023 11:37 am

Introduction

In any commercial building, the plumbing system and fixtures play a vital role in maintaining functionality, aesthetics, and long-term durability. When it comes to selecting the right plumbing fixtures for your commercial building, there are several factors to consider, such as building type, usage patterns, water efficiency, accessibility, and budget.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of commercial plumbing fixtures and provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions when selecting the best options for your building. We’ll explore various types of commercial buildings and their unique plumbing needs, understand different types of commercial plumbing fixtures, factors to consider when selecting plumbing fixtures, and tips for choosing plumbing fixtures for specific commercial building types.

Understanding the Different Types of Commercial Plumbing Fixtures

Faucets and Fixtures

Commercial faucets come in different types, each with its unique features and applications:

1. Metering faucets – These faucets come with an automatic shut-off feature that conserves water and prevents vandalism. They are ideal for high-traffic areas like public restrooms, schools, and parks.
2. Sensor faucets – These faucets use infrared sensors that detect the presence of hands and turn them on and off automatically. They promote hygiene, water conservation, and are ideal for healthcare facilities, restaurants, and schools.
3. Manual faucets – These faucets require manual operation and are available in numerous styles and finishes. They are ideal for low-traffic areas like private restrooms, executive offices, and break rooms.

Toilets and Urinals

Commercial toilets and urinals come in various types designed to cater to different building usage and occupancy patterns:

1. Flushometer toilets – These toilets use a flush valve to release a specific amount of water per flush, offering better water efficiency than standard gravity-fed toilets. They are ideal for high-traffic areas like public restrooms, schools, and parks.
2. Wall-mounted toilets – These toilets are mounted on the wall and take up less floor space than traditional toilets. They are ideal for small commercial restrooms with limited space.
3. Waterless urinals – These urinals use cartridges to trap odors and do not require water for flushing. They are sustainable options that conserve water and are ideal for restrooms in eco-friendly buildings.

Sinks

Commercial sinks are designed for various purposes, including handwashing, utility use, and mop cleaning:

1. Handwashing sinks – These sinks are essential for hygiene and come in various styles and materials to suit different environments. They are ideal for commercial kitchens, healthcare facilities, and schools.
2. Mop sinks – These sinks are designed for easy cleaning of mops and other cleaning tools. They are typically installed at floor level and are ideal for janitorial closets, commercial kitchens, and healthcare facilities.
3. Utility sinks – These sinks are useful for various tasks like cleaning equipment or filling containers. They come in different sizes and materials and are ideal for commercial kitchens, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities.

Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers

Drinking fountains and water coolers provide convenient access to fresh, clean water for employees and visitors:

1. Drinking fountains – These fixtures dispense water through a spout and are ideal for public areas like parks, schools, and hospitals.
2. Water coolers – These fixtures dispense cold water and are ideal for office break rooms, gyms, and schools.

Water Heaters

Commercial water heaters come in two main types:

1. Tankless water heaters – These units heat water on demand, offering energy efficiency and a continuous supply of hot water. They are ideal for commercial kitchens, hotels, and healthcare facilities.
2. Storage tank water heaters – These traditional water heaters have a storage tank that maintains a constant supply of hot water. They are ideal for small businesses, retail stores, and small restaurants.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Plumbing Fixtures for Commercial Buildings

When choosing plumbing fixtures, consider the following factors:

Building Type and Usage

Different building types have unique plumbing needs:

1. Offices – Offices require fixtures that balance aesthetics, durability, and water efficiency. For instance, in modern offices, sensor-activated faucets are becoming more popular because they promote hygiene and water conservation.
2. Retail spaces – Retail spaces must prioritize customer comfort and accessibility while balancing aesthetics and functionality. For instance, in retail stores, the design and style of the fixtures should match the store’s overall design and ambiance.
3. Restaurants and food service establishments – Restaurants and food service establishments need fixtures that promote hygiene, sanitation, and meet health code requirements. For instance, in commercial kitchens, handwashing sinks should have foot pedals to prevent contamination.

Occupancy and Usage Patterns

Consider the number of users and frequency of use when selecting fixtures to ensure they can handle the demand and provide a comfortable experience for occupants. For instance, in high-traffic areas like airports and hospitals, flushometer toilets are ideal because they can handle high volumes of users.

Water Efficiency and Conservation

Choose fixtures with WaterSense labels or similar certifications to conserve water and reduce utility costs. For instance, in eco-friendly buildings, waterless urinals and low-flow faucets can help reduce water consumption.

Accessibility and ADA Compliance

Ensure that your fixtures meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for accessibility, including proper mounting heights and clearances. For instance, in public restrooms, the fixtures should be accessible to people with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs.

Aesthetics and Design

Select fixtures that complement your building’s interior design and create a cohesive look throughout the space. For instance, in modern offices, fixtures with sleek designs and finishes like matte black and brushed nickel are popular.

Maintenance and Durability

Opt for fixtures made from durable materials that can withstand heavy use and require minimal maintenance. For instance, in commercial kitchens, stainless steel sinks and faucets are popular because they are durable and easy to clean.

Budget and Cost Considerations

Balance quality and cost by investing in fixtures that provide the best value for your budget. For instance, in small businesses, fixtures with low initial costs and low maintenance costs are ideal.

Tips for Choosing Plumbing Fixtures for Specific Commercial Building Types

Offices

1. Focus on water efficiency to reduce utility costs and promote sustainability. For instance, in modern offices, sensor-activated faucets and low-flow toilets are popular because they promote water conservation.
2. Prioritize durability and low maintenance to minimize disruptions and repair costs. For instance, in offices, fixtures made from durable materials like ceramic and stainless steel are popular because they require minimal maintenance.
3. Consider aesthetics and design to create a professional and welcoming environment. For instance, in modern offices, fixtures with sleek designs and finishes like matte black and brushed nickel are popular because they complement the building’s interior design.

Retail Spaces

1. Emphasize customer comfort and accessibility to create a positive shopping experience. For instance, in retail stores, fixtures should be easily accessible to customers and should have a comfortable design.
2. Balance aesthetics and functionality to enhance your store’s overall design. For instance, in high-end retail stores, fixtures with unique designs and finishes are popular because they create a luxurious ambiance.
3. Opt for low-maintenance fixtures to minimize downtime and disruptions. For instance, in retail stores, fixtures made from durable materials like ceramic and stainless steel are popular because they require minimal maintenance.

Restaurants and Food Service Establishments

1. Prioritize hygiene and sanitation to maintain a clean and healthy environment. For instance, in commercial kitchens, fixtures like hands-free faucets and waterless urinals are popular because they promote hygiene and sanitation.
2. Select fixtures that meet health code requirements to ensure compliance. For instance, in restaurants, fixtures like grease traps and prep sinks are essential to meet health code requirements.
3. Consider specialized fixtures for specific needs (e.g., prep sinks, grease traps) to enhance functionality and efficiency. For instance, in commercial kitchens, specialized fixtures like commercial-grade dishwashers and pot fillers are essential to enhance efficiency and functionality.

Working with a Professional Plumber for Fixture Selection and Installation

Partnering with a professional plumber offers several benefits:

1. Expertise in fixture selection to ensure the best choices for your building’s needs. A professional plumber can help you choose the right fixtures that meet your building’s unique plumbing needs while ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
2. Proper installation and code compliance to avoid future issues and costly repairs. A professional plumber can install your fixtures correctly, ensuring they meet code requirements and function correctly.
3. Preventing future plumbing issues through expert advice and recommendations. A professional plumber can provide you with expert advice on plumbing maintenance, repairs, and upgrade options that can help prevent future plumbing issues.

Modern Plumbing can help with your commercial plumbing fixture needs by providing expert consultation, installation, and maintenance services, and building long-lasting relationships with clients. We offer a wide range of commercial plumbing services, including fixture installation, water heater services, and plumbing repairs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right plumbing fixtures for commercial buildings is essential for maintaining functionality, aesthetics, and durability. By considering factors like building type, usage patterns, water efficiency, accessibility, and budget, you can make informed decisions that will serve your building well for years to come. Don’t forget to consult with a professional plumber for expert advice and assistance with your commercial plumbing projects.

If you need help with your commercial plumbing fixture needs, contact Modern Plumbing at (503) 691-6166 or email us at info@modernplumbing.us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in creating the perfect plumbing system for your commercial building.