At Garrison Plumbing, we're committed to being your trusted commercial plumbing partner, not just for repairs, but also for providing the information you need to maintain your critical infrastructure. Here's a quick guide to understanding the workhorse behind your business's hot water supply.

Why Your Commercial Water Heater Matters So Much

For many businesses in Frisco, consistent access to hot water isn't just a convenience; it's a necessity. Restaurants, hotels, laundromats, healthcare facilities, and even office buildings rely heavily on their water heaters for everything from sanitation and cleaning to employee comfort and process efficiency. A sudden loss of hot water can lead to:

• Operational Stoppages: Disrupting critical processes that require hot water.
• Customer Dissatisfaction: Impacting comfort in restrooms or service areas.
• Health Code Violations: Especially in food service or healthcare settings.
• Financial Loss: Due to downtime or inability to perform essential functions.

Understanding your water heater and its needs is key to preventing these costly interruptions.

1. Know Your Water Heater Type

The first step to effective water heater management is knowing what kind of system your commercial property has. There are two primary types commonly found in businesses:

• Tank Water Heaters: These are the most traditional. They consist of a large insulated tank that stores and heats a set amount of water. Once the hot water is used, the tank refills and reheats. They are often chosen for their lower upfront cost and ability to handle large, simultaneous hot water demands.
• Tankless Water Heaters: Also known as on-demand water heaters, these units heat water only when it's needed, passing it through a heating coil as it flows. They don't have a storage tank, making them highly energy-efficient and space-saving. They provide a continuous supply of hot water.

Knowing which type you have helps you understand its operational characteristics, anticipate potential issues, and make informed decisions regarding maintenance or future upgrades.

2. Set the Right Temperature

While it might seem counterintuitive for a commercial setting, setting your water heater's temperature correctly is crucial for both safety and efficiency. For most commercial applications, the ideal temperature is around 120°F to 140°F (49°C to 60°C).

• Safety: Temperatures above 140°F can significantly increase the risk of scalding, which is a major liability concern, especially in public-facing businesses.
• Efficiency: Maintaining an excessively high temperature constantly wastes energy, driving up your utility bills.
• Bacterial Growth: While too hot is dangerous, too cold (below 120°F) can foster the growth of bacteria like Legionella. Achieving the right balance is key.

For specific commercial needs, such as kitchens requiring higher temperatures for sanitation, booster heaters can be installed near the point of use to safely achieve the necessary heat without superheating the entire building's water supply.

3. Flush Tank Water Heaters Annually (Commercial Systems May Need More Frequent Flushes)

This is perhaps the most overlooked maintenance task for tank-style water heaters. Over time, sediment (mineral deposits, rust particles) accumulates at the bottom of the tank, especially in areas with hard water like Frisco. This sediment acts as an insulator, forcing the water heater to work harder to heat the water, decreasing efficiency and shortening its lifespan.

For commercial tank water heaters, which often see much higher usage, we recommend more frequent flushing – often quarterly or bi-annually, depending on water quality and usage volume. Regular flushing removes these deposits, improving efficiency and extending the life of your expensive commercial unit. This is a job best left to professional commercial plumbers who understand the specific needs of large-capacity systems.

4. Check the Anode Rod (Tank Heaters Only)

Inside your tank water heater is a sacrificial anode rod, typically made of magnesium, aluminum, or zinc. This rod's purpose is to attract corrosive elements in the water, preventing them from attacking the inner steel lining of your tank. Essentially, the anode rod corrodes so your tank doesn't.

For commercial units, the anode rod should be inspected every 1-2 years. If it's significantly corroded, replacing it can drastically extend the lifespan of your tank, preventing premature tank failure and costly replacements. This is a critical preventive measure.

5. Watch for Warning Signs

Your commercial water heater will often give you clues when something is amiss. Pay attention to these early red flags, as addressing them promptly can prevent a complete breakdown:

• Rusty or Discolored Water: Can indicate corrosion inside the tank or pipes.
• Strange Noises: Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds often point to sediment buildup.
• Water Pooling Around the Base: A clear sign of a leak from the tank or connections.
• Inconsistent Hot Water: Sudden temperature fluctuations or running out of hot water quickly.
• Foul Odors: Can signal bacterial growth in the tank.
• Pilot Light Issues (Gas Heaters): Frequent extinguishment may indicate a problem.

Any of these signs warrant an immediate call to your commercial plumber.

Final Tip: Don’t Wait Until It Breaks

A typical commercial tank water heater lasts anywhere from 8-15 years, depending on usage and maintenance. Tankless units can last 20 years or more. If your commercial water heater is getting older, or if you're experiencing frequent issues, consider proactive replacement before it fails completely. A sudden failure can lead to significant water damage, unexpected downtime, and emergency replacement costs. Planning ahead allows for a smoother transition and often a more cost-effective solution.

For questions, a quick inspection, or to discuss upgrade options for your commercial water heating system in Frisco, contact Garrison Plumbing. We’re here to keep your business running smoothly with reliable hot water – and your commercial property safe. Call us today for a quote!