Understanding Backflow Testing and Prevention

Why Is Backflow Testing Important? 

Most property owners have a decent grasp of the plumbing in their homes or businesses. However, a few aspects of plumbing may remain a mystery even to those who spend time trying to understand it. The truth is, there is a lot that goes into plumbing that lots of people never see. 

Maintaining a clean water supply takes a lot of work and uses many different engineering marvels to keep the water supply clean. One such device is called a backflow preventer. Backflow prevention devices are instrumental in ensuring that water stays safe, and they must be tested routinely to ensure they work. Here is a quick guide to backflow prevention devices and backflow testing. 

Backflow Explained

Backflow can occur in the plumbing when water flows backward through piping and causes a vacuum to form. This vacuum can siphon contaminated water or chemicals back into sterile piping, contaminating clean water and posing health risks. 

Some of the common signs that backflow has occurred can be: 

• Loss of water service due to municipal line ruptures
• Dirty and discolored water coming from the tap
• Air bubbles or pressure variations in water lines
• Bad tastes or smells coming from the water

The cleanup and repair process can be extensive when clean water supplies are contaminated. Most often, the contaminated lines will need to be flushed, wasting many gallons of water. If the problem is missed, people can be sickened or poisoned by contaminants in their water supply. 

Backflow Prevention 

Since backflow has such nasty implications for human health, it must be prevented, and in most cases, it is. Modern plumbing codes recognize that clean water is a vital resource and aim to use different methods to prevent backflow. Special devices and methods have been engineered to stop backflow so that it rarely occurs in modern society. 

Air gaps, vacuum breakers, and backflow preventers can be used to prevent backflow. Air gaps and vacuum breakers allow for a gap or air to be pulled into clean water lines when backflow occurs, preventing soiled water or chemicals from siphoning. Backflow preventers are check valves that only allow water to flow in one direction to prevent backflow. 

How Often Should Backflow Devices Be Tested? 

Backflow devices and methods must be tested annually to ensure they work so that backflow is prevented. Backflow testing and certification is a special class and certificate earned by plumbers to ensure they are competent in performing the task, so not every plumber will offer this service. 

The procedure should take less than an hour, and if any deficiencies are found, the plumber can make repairs on the spot to ensure the water supply stays safe. Routine backflow testing gives the property owner peace of mind that their water is safe and their health is protected.  

About PlumbCrazy

PlumbCrazy has over 30 years of experience serving Abingdon and the surrounding areas. They offer a customer-first approach, personalized solutions, and timely and efficient service. Call them today for backflow testing and repair in Abingdon, MD.

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