Due to the unprecedented length of the Covid-19 Pandemic, some Canadian businesses and facilities may have been forced to temporarily shut their doors and leave their water heaters dormant. Stagnant water from the disruption of water usage can have adverse affects on the water heating / plumbing system. If left unchecked the idle water can cause the development of unwanted bacteria.
As Canadian businesses re-open, there are steps you can take to ensure the health and safety of anyone utilizing the hot and/or cold water in the building.
- Inspect Equipment for Rust & Leaks: Inspect the water heater, connections, and joints for any visible signs of corrosion or leaking.
- Inspect Other System Components: Inspect thermal expansion tank and backflow device. Exercise all valves.
- For Gas Type Water Heaters, Inspect Venting: For gas-fired water heaters (Natural or LP), inspect inlet and outlet venting for any potential obstructions (e.g., debris or bird nests).
- Drainage and cleaning: With Tank Type Water Heaters, it’s recommended that you drain and clean out any sediment that could have built up. For Tankless units, follow the recommended manufacturers instructions for flushing the heat exchanger for 45 mins to an hour. ?At all points of use in your facility i.e sinks, laundry, dishwasher, flush hot and cold water. Depending on the size of your facility, you may need to perform the flushing in segments due to water pressure.?
For more information on Rheem Commercial Water Heating Products, visit www.rheem.ca
