How to Approach Servicing Urinals
Urinals are an essential fixture in men’s public restrooms and are increasingly being used in residential bathrooms. While they are easy to use and maintain, they require regular servicing to keep them working efficiently. In this guide, we will discuss how to approach servicing urinals and keep them functioning at their best.
Tools Needed for Servicing Urinals
Before we dive into servicing urinals, let’s take a look at the tools needed to keep urinals functioning properly. Here is a list of essential tools for servicing urinals:
1. Gloves – This is a no-brainer. Always wear gloves when servicing urinals to avoid coming into contact with any unsanitary waste.
2. Plunger – A plunger is essential for removing any blockages or clogs in the drain lines.
3. Chemicals – Certain chemicals can be used to clean urinals to remove stubborn stains and buildup.
4. Screwdriver – To remove any parts of the urinal that need to be replaced or cleaned.
5. Cleaning brush – A cleaning brush is needed to clean the inside of the urinal bowl.
Steps for Servicing Urinals
1. Turn off the Water Supply – Before servicing a urinal, turn off the water supply to the urinal to avoid any accidents or overspray.
2. Remove Blockages – If the urinal is clogged and not draining, use a plunger to clear the blockage. If the plunger does not solve the problem, remove the drain cover and use a drain snake to dislodge the blockage.
3. Scrub the Urinal Bowl – Once the blockages are cleared, scrub the inside of the urinal bowl using a cleaning brush and chemical cleaner. Be sure to work the cleaning solution into any stains or buildup.
4. Inspect the Urinal Trap – After cleaning the bowl, inspect the urinal trap for any debris or buildup that could cause future blockages. Remove any debris and clean the trap.
5. Replace any Damaged Parts – If there are any damaged parts of the urinal, such as the flush valve or trap, replace them with new parts.
6. Turn the Water Supply Back On – Once everything is cleaned and any damaged parts are replaced, turn the water supply back on and flush the urinal to make sure it is functioning properly.
Maintaining Urinals
To avoid having to service urinals frequently, it is important to maintain them properly. Here are a few tips for maintaining urinals:
1. Use Urinal Screens – Urinal screens can keep debris from collecting in the urinal drain lines.
2. Clean Urinals Regularly – Regular cleaning, including the bowl and trap, can reduce the buildup of debris in the drain lines.
3. Use Chemical Cleaners – Certain chemical cleaners can be used to break down the buildup of debris in the urinal drain lines.
4. Run Water – To keep trap seals from drying out and causing foul odors, run water in the urinal once a week.
Maintaining and servicing urinals is not a difficult task if done correctly. With the right tools and a little knowledge, it is easy to keep these fixtures in good working order. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to approach servicing urinals, and use the tips provided to maintain urinals and keep them functioning properly for years to come. Be sure to call a professional plumber if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing any of these maintenance tasks on your own.