Leaks are not uncommon as faucets age and seals start to deteriorate. Many of us probably think a small amount of water dripping into the sink really doesn’t amount to that much over time. In a commercial kitchen, leaks are a common occurrence that can quickly drain profits, often before a foodservice manager notices the problem or takes the time to have the problem fixed.
According to NSF® International, the average leaky faucet with a slow or minimal drip can waste from 1000 – 2000 gallons per year. A larger leak of just under 0.2 gallons per minute fills about 10 gallons every hour, adding up to 100,000 gallons in the span of a year. This can cost of hundreds of dollars in excess water usage for the year. And if the leak uses hot water, you are spending money to heat up the water first before it goes down the drain.
Prevention and Repair
Many leaks are simply due to worn or damaged washers, or a loose sink handle, which can be easily repaired with a washer and basic tools. It is also important to clean and maintain sinks and dishwashing stations to prevent backups and clogs, which may also contribute to leaks. The age of your equipment and appliances is a big factor. After years of use, some metals in dishwashers, ice makers and other machines can rust or break and cause leaks. Simply checking hose connections on water lines to ice machines or dishwashers to make sure they are tight is an easy thing to do to prevent leaks.
Plumbing Parts, Replacement Faucets
A small repair may be all that is needed to fix a leak. Curtis Restaurant Supply carries many T&S and Krowne plumbing parts that can often be a quick and economical fix. Please call a plumber right away if you are unsure about your ability to fix the leak.
And if a new faucet is needed, we have a full line of swing, gooseneck, and pre-rinse faucets. Stop by our store or check with one of our knowledgeable sales professionals for assistance.
A small leak can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, costing hundreds of dollars in excessive water costs and could eventually lead to a larger, more expensive problem. By taking the time to fix leaky faucets, you will reduce your water consumption and ensure your profits aren’t going down the drain.
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