The techniques and skillset for plumbing change from place to place. Some homes have different problems or equipment and require different methods and tools to repair their plumbing systems. However, the differences between the plumbing needs of a residential and a commercial building can be even greater. Commercial and residential plumbing have the following differences.
Grading of Pipes and Fixtures
A residential building doesn’t usually hold the same demands as a commercial structure. Most of the bathroom and plumbing usage is from family members and visitors that have a fixed number of occupants. Commercial buildings, however, have a greater demand and use plumbing more frequently, so they require heavy duty materials. Plumbers must therefore use higher gradings for pipes and fixtures compared to residential buildings.
Complexity of Buildings
In a residential home, the plumbing system is usually simple and has a limited set of toilets, sinks, and other structures. A commercial building, on the other hand, has several floors and multiple networks of toilets, sinks, sometimes showers, and other plumbing equipment. Plumbers working on commercial buildings understand the greater responsibilities that come with commercial buildings.
Potential Problems
A plumber working in a residential structure usually sees variations of the same problem on a daily basis, with only the occasional abnormal case or two. Because of a commercial structure’s larger system of plumbing, equipment, and demand, there is a greater chance for problems to develop, with a wider variety of such issues. Additionally, because of the greater connection between plumbing systems in a commercial building, any potential issue can affect the other systems in a quick, almost contagious manner. Meanwhile, a worker in a residential home can curb the damage to one room or a limited area.
Job Requirements
Because of the greater equipment requirements, system complexity, and potential for problems, the job requirements for a commercial plumber are much higher. Unlike residential workers, commercial workers have tighter deadlines to fix the issues due to high demand. Commercial workers are sometimes required to work overtime in case of unexpected problems or complications, and their work often undergoes more scrutiny and testing than their residential counterparts.
Sources:
http://purplumbingservice.com/commercial/commercial-plumbing-versus-residential-plumbing/