Here’s the Right Way of Maintaining a Utility Chase
A utility chase is a must-have in almost all commercial facilities. With the amount of plumbing & electrical work needed, a utility chase is there to keep all wires/pipes organized & out of harm’s way. In fact, many local codes & regulations require them. Without a utility chase, it would certainly spell doom. Constant maintenance of them is, therefore, a necessity. What should you look out for though?
In this article, we’ll go over 3 important maintenance tips for your utility chase. We’ll start with the obvious & then dive deeper. Let’s begin.
1. Inspection (and we mean thoroughly)
Just looking at the exterior of a utility chase quickly is not enough. You’ll need to check deeper than that. Visual scan for any cracks, water leakages, & loose pipes/wires. If this means detaching a chase from the ceiling/base, then so be it. There should be no structural irregularities or compromises to the chase itself.
Aside from visuals, keep your ears open for any unusual noises that may indicate a leak or issues internally with a utility chase. Use the access panel to your advantage, leave no stone unturned.
2. Clean, Clean, Clean
Yes, even a utility chase needs to be cleaned!
Once again, utilize the access panel to enter your utility chase & remove any dust, debris, or dirt from the interior. A divider may be present inside of the chase to separate plumbing & electrical lines – clean both sides of the divider. Remember – no obstructions should be present inside.
Wipe down the exterior of the chase using a non-harsh stainless steel cleaner & a soft microfiber towel. Be sure to get the entire chase cleaned, even the top portion.
3. Mind the Gap
On rare occasions, a utility chase may form gaps with the ceiling causing issue with air sealing & insulation. Seal any gaps around the chase edges/collar with caulk or weather stripping to prevent air infiltration.
Tighten any loose collars or brackets to ensure the seal between the ceiling & base is 100% tight. Safety is paramount & having a loose chase may mean water & electrical lines out in the open, which poses a hazard for your work area. Collars are provided to allow your chase to fit snugly & flush on both ends – use them well.
A utility chase not only offers convenience, but safety as well. Keep your chase in standing order & your wiring & plumbing should follow suit. To learn more about how IMC’s utility chase, click here.
