One test that is becoming a standard for most areas throughout the country is backflow testing. Due to its importance, many local municipalities are integrating annual testing and servicing of backflow devices into their code standards. We’re going to go over everything you need to know about backflow prevention and testing below.
What Is Backflow?
Backflow is when wastewater from your home enters your clean water lines. Every home is set up to have clean fresh water lines as well as separate wastewater lines. Unfortunately, when issues like pump failures, damage to supply lines, and heavy water usage from a public supply line happen, it can spell disaster. The normal water pressure that’s typically present in your lines will be decreased in these events. This can result in wastewater flowing through your clean water supply lines, which is hazardous.
The Two Types of Backflow
Backflow can be described as one of two types, which are back pressure and back siphonage. Back pressure backflow happens when the pressure of your wastewater system is higher than the pressure of your freshwater supply lines. The pressure of the wastewater line can increase due to a problem with the sewer line. Or, more commonly, the pressure of the clean water supply can decrease.
Back siphonage occurs due to negative pressure in the freshwater supply system. That negative pressure in the supply line results in the wastewater line contents being pulled back into the freshwater supply lines. This contamination is usually the result of a water main break or a heavy demand for freshwater from something like firefighters using a fire hydrant near your home. A well-functioning residential backflow device can help protect your clean water supply from both back pressure and back siphonage.
What’s a Backflow Preventer?
A backflow preventer is a simple check valve that gets installed on your sewer line. This valve is specifically designed to only allow wastewater to flow in one single direction. It prevents wastewater from flowing in the opposite direction when pressure change events happen in your plumbing system. It’s vital to get annual testing of your backflow prevention device to ensure it functions properly, as a fault in this device could lead to serious problems for your home and health.
Types of Backflow Prevention Devices
While all backflow prevention devices work to prevent the contamination of your freshwater supply by wastewater, there are a few different types available to choose from, such as:
- Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
- Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breakers
- Double-Check Valve Assembly
- Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Assembly
These devices vary in where they get installed in your plumbing setup and the amount of pressure they’re able to withstand. When having a backflow preventer installed at your home, it’s best to consult with a licensed plumber to determine the appropriate style of backflow prevention device to use.
How Is Backflow Prevention Testing Performed?
When it comes to doing any sort of work with your plumbing system, it’s highly advisable to have a professional plumber complete the job. This holds especially true when it comes to backflow testing, as most municipalities will require a licensed plumber to do the testing and necessary servicing of your backflow equipment.
First, the water supply needs to be shut off. Then, your backflow prevention device will be thoroughly inspected to identify any visible cracking, leaking, or corrosion on the device. Plumbers will use specialized testing equipment that has hoses with small test cocks, which they’ll hook up to the backflow preventer. This testing device measures the pressure differences between the valves to ensure they’re at appropriate levels.
Next, a functional test will be performed to ensure that the backflow preventer is preventing reverse flow. If your device is working properly, the plumber will slowly turn your water supply back on and provide you with a thorough inspection report. If your device is in good working condition, you’ll typically receive a certificate that you can present to your local municipality to show proof for annual inspection purposes.
How Long Do Backflow Preventers Last?
Most backflow preventers have a lifespan of between 5 and 10 years, depending on the specific style of preventer it is. It’s very common for most homeowners to have their backflow preventer device replaced every five years to prevent failure. Your plumber will be able to give you some guidance when they test your device annually to let you know when it’s likely going to need to be fully replaced.
Most Common Problems With Backflow Preventers
As with any device, your backflow prevention device is prone to developing a problem or two over its lifespan. The first and most commonly experienced issue is water leakage. This can happen in the form of a slight drip, where a rubber gasket is likely worn out or has shifted. If a large amount of water is flowing out of the valve, it could be the result of something stuck in it or massive corrosion of the preventer device.
Uneven water pressure is another issue you may experience. This is more prominent in regions of the country that have particularly bad water quality. Debris, like small rocks, can get stuck in the backflow prevention valve and cause the device to malfunction. Furthermore, water contaminants can get caught up in the backflow preventer’s strainer and lead to water pressure issues.
Discolored or cloudy water is never something you want to experience. This usually indicates that contaminants are being introduced into your freshwater supply. This issue could be with your backflow prevention device or even your neighbor’s device that’s back-feeding contaminants into the city’s water supply line.
Another problem that could indicate a malfunction with your backflow prevention device is slow draining water. If you notice your sink or shower is draining extremely slowly, it could mean that there is a clog or similar buildup affecting your backflow prevention device. When you experience any of these common issues, it’s important to stop using your water and contact a plumbing professional to further assess and fix the issue.
Top Reasons to Get Regular Backflow Testing
While backflow testing is mandated in some areas of the country, you may find that you’re in an area that doesn’t require it. However, that doesn’t mean you should skip annual testing as it can provide many great benefits for you and your family. One of the most obvious benefits is that it can provide you with peace of mind that you’re not drinking or otherwise using water that is contaminated with sewage. Additionally, regular testing helps to drastically minimize your liability of experiencing backflow at your home which can result in contamination of your city’s freshwater supply line.
Reliable Backflow Prevention Services
Bumble Breeze offers reliable backflow prevention services for homeowners throughout the whole Las Vegas, NV community. We can also help with all your air conditioning, heating, indoor air quality, commercial, and plumbing needs. Simply give our office a buzz today to schedule your next service consultation.
