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Main Takeaways

• Hospital plumbing poses clinical risk because patients are immunocompromised and water is a direct route for infection.
• California facilities are subject to HCAI (formerly OSHPD) and the California Plumbing Code.
• The 2025 Title 24 code took effect January 1, 2026, adding Legionella controls for hot water systems.
• Since 2017, CMS certification has enforced federal water management requirements.

In most buildings, plumbing is infrastructure. In a hospital, plumbing functions as clinical equipment. The same water that runs a sterile processing department also reaches the bedside tap of a patient whose immune system can’t handle an organism a healthy adult would never notice.

Why Healthcare Plumbing Is Different From Standard Commercial Plumbing

Hospital plumbing differs from other commercial work because failures can harm patients. Unlike most commercial buildings, hospitals can’t close while work is underway, and for hospital buildings, HCAI review replaces the local plan check, so most healthcare plumbing work requires state approval before it can start. Site work outside those buildings may still go to the local jurisdiction. 

What Plumbing Requirements Do Hospitals Need to Address?

Hospital plumbing systems have very detailed needs, all of which are regulated.

Potable water supply and distribution

Unlike most commercial buildings, plumbing for hospitals requires a second water supply path. They must also be able to shut off one section at a time to allow for repairs or replacements, and any new or altered pipe must be disinfected before it’s placed.

Hot water temperature and recirculation

In hospital water systems, hot water must be stored at a temperature high enough to kill Legionella but delivered at a temperature that doesn’t scald patients. It also needs to be kept moving to prevent organisms from multiplying.

Backflow and cross-connection protection

Multiple machines, equipment, and processes all connect to the water supply. If pressure drops, whatever’s in that equipment can be drawn into the water. Backflow preventers stop this from happening. 

Drainage and sanitary waste systems

Standard sanitary drainage isn’t sufficient for healthcare plumbing systems. Lab waste is often acidic and must be neutralized, and pharmaceutical waste requires dedicated handling.

Handwashing and plumbing fixtures

Specialized clinical plumbing

A commercial building can run on water that’s simply safe to drink. In a hospital, dialysis, sterile processing, and laboratory equipment each need water treated to a standard beyond that.

Hospital Plumbing Requirements Checklist

Use this checklist as a starting point when reviewing your facility: 

• Install sectionalizing valves so zones can be isolated without a full shutdown
• Document disinfection of all new and altered piping
• Monitor hot water temperatures and balance recirculation
• Test backflow assemblies annually and retain the records
• Maintain a current water management program, and a record of all plumbing maintenance activities
• Verify materials comply with HCAI restrictions

Need help working through this list? We offer healthcare facility plumbing maintenance on request.

How Do Hospitals Reduce Legionella and Waterborne Pathogen Risks?

Healthcare facility plumbing reduces Legionella and pathogen risks by managing the conditions they need to grow. That means keeping stored water hot enough to control growth, keeping it moving through the building, and maintaining disinfectant levels.

What Plumbing Codes Apply to California Healthcare Facilities?

Hospital plumbing codes apply in three layers: state code, agency amendments, and federal standards.

California Plumbing Code

The California Plumbing Code covers everything from pipe materials to fixture counts and applies statewide. Formally, it’s Part 5 of Title 24, the state building standards code. A new edition is published every three years.

HCAI and OSHPD requirements

Plans and inspections go to a state agency — The Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) — known as OSHPD until 2021 and still called that in the code, which adds its own rules on top of the state code. Non-compliant work is caught during inspection and must be addressed.

Federal and industry water management standards

Federal and industry standards sit outside the building code. ASHRAE 188 sets out what a water management program must contain. It’s mandatory in hospitals because the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires it as a condition of billing, and the Joint Commission reviews it during accreditation surveys.

What Changed Under California’s Current Plumbing Code?

The 2025 California Plumbing Code revised six areas:

1. Handwashing fixture flow rates on clinical sinks.
2. How many fixtures public waiting areas need.
3. When a new pipe must be disinfected.
4. Required temperatures for kitchen and food service.
5. New requirements for Legionella control.
6. Updated requirements for dialysis water systems.

How Should Plumbing Work Be Planned in an Operating Hospital?

Plumbing work in a hospital has to be planned around patients and should follow three steps: 

• Step one: Agree on the protections. Infection control risk assessment, containment, and interim life safety measures.
• Step two: Survey before you schedule. Existing conditions in older buildings rarely match the drawings.
• Step three: Plan and share the shutdown. Which departments What Happens When a Hospital Loses Its Water Supply?
• lose water, for how long, when, and who approves it. Then tell everyone affected.

When a hospital loses its water supply, clinical services stop, and canceled surgical lists and diverted admissions all impact the hospital’s bottom line.

When Should a Healthcare Facility Bring in a Commercial Plumbing Contractor?

A healthcare facility should engage a commercial contractor as early as possible. On a new construction, that means before design decisions are made. 

In an existing building, service and repair support should be brought in as soon as there are recurring hot water complaints, Legionella is found in a sample, a backflow test fails, or an expansion affects water demand. 

Healthcare Plumbing in Southern California

Most hospital plumbing work in Southern California occurs inside buildings that treat patients. California’s 2030 seismic compliance deadline under SB 1953 has moved much of the region’s acute care stock into retrofitting, and while limited delays to 2033 or 2035 are available to facilities that qualified under AB 869, most buildings are working toward the original date.

Some of that mandate is plumbing scope. Meeting NPC-5 generally means 72 hours of on-site potable water and wastewater capacity, sized against a water rationing plan reviewed by HCAI and CDPH. With construction documents for that work already due, many facilities are building now rather than planning.

How Andersen Commercial Plumbing Supports Healthcare Facilities

Founded in 1994, Andersen Commercial Plumbing (ACP) is Southern California’s market-leading commercial plumbing provider, serving regulated industries and handling HCAI-reviewed projects, occupied-facility retrofits, and ongoing hospital plumbing maintenance.

Learn more about ACP or contact us to discuss your project today.

Maintaining the plumbing systems of a commercial building is crucial for its efficient operation and long-term value. Andersen Commercial Plumbing introduces the Plumber’s Care Program—a proactive maintenance solution designed to keep your plumbing in optimal condition. This program focuses on regular inspections, timely interventions, and preventive care, helping building owners avoid costly repairs and ensure a reliable plumbing system.

What is the Plumber’s Care Program?

The Plumber’s Care Program is Andersen’s innovative approach to commercial plumbing maintenance. This program offers building owners a streamlined process to manage and maintain their plumbing systems. They focus on three key services: hydro-jetting, backflow certification testing, and water heater inspections. By participating in this program, you can expect to save both time and money while preventing potential plumbing issues from escalating into major problems.

The Importance of Hydro-Jetting

One of the cornerstones of the Plumber’s Care Program is hydro-jetting. This powerful drain-cleaning method uses high-pressure water streams to clear out blockages and buildup in plumbing lines. Hydro-jetting is particularly effective for commercial properties where debris, grease, and scale can accumulate in the pipes over time. This build up can lead to blockages and inefficient drainage.

What sets Andersen’s hydro-jetting service apart is the inclusion of a free camera inspection. This non-invasive process allows technicians to accurately diagnose issues within your pipes without the need for digging or cutting into walls. Such issues they look for include cracks, corrosion, and stubborn blockages. Regular hydro-jetting, tracked and performed on a quarterly, semi-annual, or annual basis, ensures your plumbing lines remain clear and functional, providing a long-term solution to potential drainage problems.

Ensuring Water Safety with Backflow Certification Testing

The next element is backflow testing. Backflow preventers are critical components of any commercial plumbing system, as they protect the drinking water supply from contamination. Andersen’s backflow certification testing is another vital service offered through the Plumber’s Care Program. This testing ensures that backflow preventers are functioning correctly and are compliant with safety regulations.

In California, it is typically required that backflow preventers undergo an annual inspection. Regular testing helps identify mechanical faults such as valve or seal failures that could allow contaminated water to flow back into the clean water supply. By keeping your backflow preventers in top condition, you protect public health, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain the integrity of your building’s water supply infrastructure.

Maintaining Efficiency with Water Heater Inspections

Lastly, water heaters are essential for the daily operations of any commercial building. Over time, these systems can develop issues such as leaks, sediment buildup, or worn-out components. The water heater inspection service in Andersen’s Plumber’s Care Program is designed to catch these issues early, ensuring your water heaters operate efficiently and safely.

During an inspection, Andersen’s technicians thoroughly examine your water heater system, checking for signs of wear, corrosion, and leaks. They also assess the thermostat, heating elements, pressure relief valve, and gas lines to ensure everything is functioning as it should. By performing these inspections annually, you can extend the lifespan of your water heaters, reduce energy costs, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Invest in Peace of Mind with Andersen’s Plumber’s Care Program

The Plumber’s Care Program by Andersen Commercial Plumbing offers commercial building owners a proactive and reliable solution to managing their plumbing systems. By focusing on hydro-jetting, backflow certification testing, and water heater inspections, this program not only prevents costly repairs but also ensures the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing infrastructure.

Choosing Andersen for your commercial plumbing needs means investing in the future of your property. With a commitment to quality, expertise, and customer satisfaction, Andersen Commercial Plumbing is your partner in maintaining a safe, efficient, and reliable plumbing system. Reach out today to learn more about how the Plumber’s Care Program can benefit your business.

Commercial building owners in Burbank face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their industrial plumbing systems. At Andersen Commercial Plumbing, we specialize in providing comprehensive plumbing services tailored to the needs of large-scale facilities. From new construction projects to ongoing maintenance, sewer repairs, and backflow testing, our team is dedicated to ensuring your plumbing systems operate efficiently and reliably. 

Comprehensive Services for New and Ongoing Construction Projects 

Expert Installation for New Construction 

Building a new commercial facility requires meticulous planning and execution, especially when it comes to industrial plumbing. Andersen Commercial Plumbing offers expert installation services that guarantee a robust and efficient plumbing system. Our team collaborates with architects, engineers, and contractors to design and install plumbing systems that meet the specific requirements of your project. 

Reliable Support for Ongoing Projects 

For ongoing construction projects, it’s crucial to have a reliable industrial plumbing partner who can handle the evolving needs of the site. Andersen Commercial Plumbing provides consistent support and services to ensure your project stays on track. We offer timely and efficient solutions, addressing any plumbing challenges that arise during the construction process. 

Essential Sewer Maintenance and Repair 

Preventative Sewer Maintenance 

Regular sewer maintenance is essential to prevent disruptions and costly repairs in large-scale facilities. Andersen Commercial Plumbing offers comprehensive sewer maintenance services, including routine inspections, cleaning, and preventative measures. Our proactive approach helps identify potential issues early, ensuring your sewer system remains functional and reliable. 

Efficient Sewer Repair Services 

When sewer problems occur, they need to be addressed promptly to minimize downtime and inconvenience. Our skilled technicians at Andersen Commercial Plumbing are equipped to handle a wide range of sewer issues, from minor blockages to major line repairs. We use advanced techniques and equipment to diagnose and resolve problems quickly, restoring your system to optimal performance. 

Backflow Testing and Prevention for Safety 

Importance of Backflow Prevention 

Backflow can pose serious health risks by allowing contaminated water to enter the clean water supply. Andersen Commercial Plumbing provides thorough backflow testing and prevention services to safeguard your facility. Regular testing ensures that your backflow prevention devices are functioning correctly, protecting your water supply from contamination. 

Compliance with Local Regulations 

Adhering to local and state regulations for backflow prevention is critical for any commercial facility. Our team is knowledgeable about the latest codes and standards, providing you with the necessary testing and certification services to ensure compliance. Trust Andersen Commercial Plumbing to keep your facility safe and up to code. 

Industrial Plumbing Solutions 

Upgrading Industrial Plumbing Systems 

Investing in the upgrade of your industrial plumbing system is a smart move for the efficiency and longevity of your facility. Andersen Commercial Plumbing specializes in industrial plumbing upgrades, enhancing the reliability and performance of your water systems. Whether you’re dealing with outdated pipes or insufficient water pressure, our team can design and implement the right solutions for your needs. 

Long-Term Benefits of Upgrading 

Upgrading your industrial plumbing system offers numerous long-term benefits, including improved water quality, increased property value, and reduced maintenance costs. By modernizing your plumbing infrastructure, you can ensure the health and safety of your facility’s occupants while also enhancing operational efficiency. 

Choose Andersen Commercial Plumbing 

At Andersen Commercial Plumbing, we are committed to providing quality plumbing services for large-scale facilities in Burbank. Our expertise in industrial plumbing, coupled with our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, makes us the ideal partner for all your plumbing needs. Whether you require installation, maintenance, or repair services, our team is ready to deliver reliable and efficient solutions. 

Invest in the future of your facility by choosing Andersen Commercial Plumbing. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help improve your industrial plumbing systems and ensure the long-term success of your operations. Visit our website for more information. 

4 Reasons You Need 24-Hour Boiler Service for Your Business

If your business has hot water and heat, you have some type of boiler. You likely don’t give it much thought, but when your heat goes out in the middle of winter, you might want to call an emergency boiler service. The hot water for showers in a retirement community and washing dishes in a restaurant depend on the a boiler that is needed 24/7.

1. Hot Water and Heat for Tenants

Emergency boiler services can save you a big headache when tenants have to do without hot water and heat. Paying residents who rent space from you expect speedy service when they are inconvenienced, be it day or night; regardless of your commercial property, the people. A commercial boiler serves many people who work and live in your commercial space. It is a service well worth having when you know you can call 24/7 to have an emergency boiler service company there to fix the problem.

2. Save on Future Repairs With 24-Hour Service

An emergency visit on the weekend to fix a boiler that stopped working might cost you more in after hour fees but it will likely be worth paying a little extra now. Waiting could make the damage worse and cost more in the long run, especially if you have to replace the whole boiler because the damage becomes irreparable. Regular boiler maintenance goes a long way to help keep 24-hour boiler repair calls to a minimum.

3. Emergencies Often Happen In the Wee Hours

A 24-hour boiler repair service is often most appreciated when your boiler stops working in the early morning hours or on a holiday weekend. It will probably be worth your minor inconvenience to have to call an emergency boiler service than to deal with the fallout of no heat and hot water.

4. Reduce Loss Due to Boiler Downtime

Hotel boilers are needed 24/7, and the money lost for every hour down will be substantial. The cost of having an emergency boiler repair company on retainer might seem to be extravagant but not when you compare it to unhappy guests who decide to switch hotels in the chaos. The price to pay for 24-hour boiler repair likely won’t seem so excessive when you consider the alternative. A middle of the night breakdown might also be a wakeup call to have a boiler maintenance visit scheduled.

Contact us at Andersen Commercial Plumbing to get a jump on your regular boiler maintenance. We are here for your 24/7 because we know your boiler can stop working when you least expect it. Our goal is to keep that from happening by maintaining your boiler on a regular basis.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”208528″]By the time you recognize that your plumbing is on the fritz, you could be looking at anything from burst pipes to a backed-up sewer line. At Anderson Commercial Plumbing, we know that your water system can become disrupted for several reasons and that time is of the essence. We also know how to distinguish a great commercial plumber from a bad one.

1. A Great Plumber Is Honorable

When you require service, a solid first step is to see who does a lot of work in the community. Look for online reviews that speak to a professional’s character and expertise. Promptness and reliability are as important as a master plumber’s familiarity with a plumber’s torch. A proven track record in making people happy bodes well for your situation.

2. A Great Plumber Is There When You Need Service

By checking around to see whose been handling the pipes for your neighboring businesses, you’re eliminating residential plumbers from the mix and saving time. One associated detail is that residential plumbers are more apt to keep regular business hours, whereas commercial plumbers work around your business’s schedule.

3. A Great Plumber Is Well-Rounded

Commercial plumbing encompasses lots of different scenarios. The residential plumber can diagnose and fix an issue at a house. Still, a commercial plumber can see how such an issue can impact the entire water system of a commercial property. You want somebody who’s seen it all and can easily distinguish the difference between plumbing issues. This would be a plumber that’s worked in many different settings, from hospitals to laboratories to business offices, and who can manage installations as well as repairs and wellness checks.

4. A Great Plumber Is Here Waiting For You

The next time you need service, reach out to us at Anderson Commercial Plumbing. We have a great team of dedicated professionals waiting to impress you by solving your plumbing problems. Call 909-281-1493 or email us today![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”203433″]With spring every year comes thoughts of cleaning out your business’s old storage room, putting a new coat of paint on the sign out front, and other visible changes. What about the parts of your business you can’t see? At Andersen Commercial Plumbing, we know how important it is to keep your plumbing in top shape for all your most exacting needs. If you’re wondering whether your plumbing may need maintenance, we have a few thoughts that might help.

Inspect the Right Way

Any spring cleaning should include your plumbing. Many unseen problems could lead to larger issues down the line:

• Clogged drains: Debris is washed down drains every day and sometimes ends up getting stuck. This can build up over time, leading to blocked, dirty drains.
• Messy fixtures: Grease and other undesirable material can build up as you use your plumbing. Scour your fixtures to regain their luster and improve the overall look of your business.
• Rusty connections: Left untreated, rust can build in your pipes over time. A thorough examination can identify and remove any areas of rust that may be fouling up your water.

Choose To Upgrade

Do you know how old your plumbing is? Chances are, it hasn’t been updated in years, even decades. This can lead to many problems: faulty valves, damaged sinks, or even leaky pipes. Problems of this sort can cascade into larger issues if not treated on time. They may even cost you a lot more money in the end. There are plenty of other proactive measures you can take to save on utilities as well, such as installing water heaters and aerators more energy-efficient than your current models.

Hire a Professional

You’ve thought about it and decided good plumbing is crucial. What’s next? The good news is, we’re here to help. Andersen Commercial Plumbing knows inspecting and upgrading your pipes is the way to a happier, better business life. Contact us today![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”713661″]Water damage can do serious, unexpected harm to your business property. While smoke alarms and security systems tend to protect your commercial property from other risks, water damage is often a silent threat. It tends to go unnoticed until the damage is significant and costly to repair. Prevention is the best way to avoid this problem.

Make Maintenance a Priority

The plumbing components of your building typically remain in the background and off your radar, but these elements should always be included in a maintenance and inspection plan. Though your staff should remain vigilant for signs of a problem, you will get the most effective inspection from plumbing professionals like the team at Andersen Commercial Plumbing. Experience and top-of-the-industry training has taught our crew how to look for discoloration on the walls, floors, or ceilings.

If you notice patches of mildew or mold growing around the property, either along the walls or in the restrooms, it could be a sign of a leak. Make checking plumbing components in the bathrooms, around any appliances in the breakroom, and maintenance closets a high priority. A musty, wet odor could also mean there is excess moisture in the air from a leak.

Check All Aspects of the Property

Leaks don’t just occur inside the building. There could be water coming in from poor seals in the windows or from missing shingles on the roof. Using caulking to seal cracks near doors and windows is one way to help alleviate poor seals. Gutters that get backed up with debris can cause water to backflow into places that aren’t designed to hold or distribute water.  Scheduling exterior maintenance inspections several times a year is the best way to protect your building.

Call the Experts

By partnering with Andersen Plumbing Company, you can be fully prepared for potential leaks or water concerns with your property. Our professional team can step in and address your plumbing concerns, protecting your property from serious damage and costly repairs. Contact us today to get your inspection scheduled.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”308164″]After an earthquake, damage may not be apparent, especially when you’re dealing with your plumbing system. At Andersen Commercial Plumbing, we have experience with damage caused by earthquakes.

Gas Leak Danger

One of the significant risks after an earthquake is a gas leak. A gas leak can be dangerous to you, your staff, and any guests within the building. Not only can people suffer an illness, but the effects of inhaling gas can also be fatal. When looking for a gas leak, begin by smelling the environment. For clients to smell gas leaks, gas companies have to add an odor to gas that may smell similar to rotten eggs. A hissing sound may also accompany gas leaks.

Pipe Damage and Leaks

If you catch any leaks within your building, you should shut off your water right away. When you shut off your water, you save yourself from the impact of water damage and the cost of running water. If you do not see a leak right away, look for any wet spots on your walls or floor. You may also hear running water or notice the water pressure changing.

Sewer Line Damage

Your sewer line is responsible for removing the waste from your building and transporting it to the processing facility. If your sewer line breaks, it can cause your sewer to back up into the building. When waste reenters the building, it becomes a significant health hazard. Not only can this cause bacterial infections, but the gas it lets off can be toxic. If you smell sewage following an earthquake, you most likely have a leak or break in the pipe.

As a business owner or property manager, you need to prepare for earthquakes and the resulting damage. After an earthquake, contact us right away at Andersen Commercial Plumbing for an inspection of your plumbing. Some problems may go unnoticed until the damage becomes severe. To schedule your appointment today, call us at 909-281-1493.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Plumbing Issues

Marketing professionals consistently proclaim that every public-facing aspect of a company is a “welcome” or a “not welcome” sign. While this is true of a firm’s website and the entrance to its offices, it is equally valid of its restrooms. Since no property manager wants to stop business operations to fix a toilet, here are some insights that may help you avoid the most common plumbing issues.

Leaky Faucets

Nothing is more annoying than the constant dripping of the sink in the breakroom or bathroom. Leaks are chronic headaches that can quietly lead to significant standing water and mold issues. Have a commercial plumber replace the capsule or ring as soon as there is a problem. Then, have the entire system checked for other leaks.

Clogged Toilets and Drains

Posting notices in restrooms and at sinks reminds employees and visitors what can and cannot be flushed down a toilet or sink. Even though commercial fixtures are designed to handle more use than personal toilets, any toilet can be clogged. Store a plunger nearby and have an employee check the drains regularly to prevent overflow and severe clogging, requiring a rooter.

Water Temperature

Waiting for the water to change from cold to hot can be frustrating. There are a couple of solutions that can help. A commercial plumber can install a pump to provide warm water throughout the system with a traditional water heater. You can also install small POU (point of use) water heaters.

Lingering Odors

Assuming that restrooms are regularly cleaned, a lingering foul smell indicates an underlying sewer or septic issue, such as a blockage. If your facilities have been cleaned thoroughly and you’re still experiencing sewer odors, contact commercial plumbing professional like Andersen Plumbing to determine where the backup is and get it fixed as soon as possible.

If you have any other commercial plumbing problems that aren’t listed above, contact us at 909-281-1493 or email us today to find out what Andersen Plumbing can do to ensure your plumbing problems are solved quickly and efficiently.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]