Contaminated water is a scary thing. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites thrive in these waters. If ingested or inhaled, it can lead to severe illnesses. Backflow prevention devices are essential for keeping water safe and clean.
To deem if the backflow prevention device in your plumbing system is working efficiently, contact the experts at Certified Plumbing of Brevard! We are available 24/7 for any plumbing emergency service. Call us at 321-676-0812 to get your backflow prevention device inspected!
The Dangers of Backflow
Backflow could severely compromise the safety of drinking water. When water in a plumbing system flows in the opposite direction backflow occurs. Usually due to a pressure drop or other issues involving sewer lines or contaminated bodies of water. Such backflow can cause significant contamination of drinking water sources with potentially hazardous materials.
Hazardous Material in Contaminated Drinking Water:
- Pesticides
- Bacteria
- Raw Sewage
- Toxic Chemicals
- Heavy Metals
Consuming contaminated backflow water can lead to serious health problems. Like gastrointestinal ailments, respiratory infections, hepatitis, conjunctivitis, and numerous other waterborne diseases. Also, consuming such contaminants can lead to symptoms like nausea and vomiting, digestive issues, headaches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause some long-term complications that could be fatal.
Have a professional install a backflow prevention device, or have Certified Plumbing of Brevard inspect the current device on your property.
What is a Backflow Prevention Device?
This device is a valve placed in plumbing systems to prevent water from flowing back into the building’s main potable water supply. Backflow can occur if a temporary loss of pressure or vacuum occurs in the system. And could draw polluted or contaminated water back toward the potable water source.
Also, backflow prevention devices stop contaminated water from entering the main drinking water supply. This creates hysical barrier between possible contamination and the water being delivered. Properly installed and maintained backflow prevention devices secure the public drinking water so it remains safe for your family, customers, and members of the community.
Where is a Backflow Prevention Device Located?
A backflow prevention device is typically installed in the main water line before it enters a property and after the meter. As it creates a barrier to prevent polluted or unwanted water from flowing backwards into the clean water supply. This device must be supervised and tested annually by a certified professional to ensure it functions properly and protects your water supply.
Contact Certified Plumbing of Brevard to properly install a backflow prevention device!
How Does a Backflow Prevention Device Work?
Backflow prevention devices are an essential line of defense against potential contamination of potable water supplies. The valve prevents contaminated water drawn into city water systems by a its physical barrier and pressure differential. It is an active mechanical device that requires regular maintenance to ensure it proper functioning.
Generally, they feature a particular type of check valve that stops any flow in the reverse direction. In addition, they also contain an air-gap feature that separates the cold and hot water lines, reducing the chance of contamination. This device is usually installed where the potable water system connects to any non-potable sources and helps maintain the correct flow of water. It works by ensuring that no contaminated water flows back into the potable system. Instead, it is drained away or runs off where it can be filtered or disposed of safely. In this manner, the integrity of the supply remains uncompromised and safe for drinking, bathing, watering plants, and other tasks that may require potable water.
Proper installation and upkeep of backflow prevention devices are critical for ensuring safe, clean drinking water in all environments. When functioning correctly, backflow prevention devices prevent the reverse flow of non-potable water into drinking water systems and wastewater from entering drinking water supplies. This helps protect against pollutants, contaminants, or even hazardous chemicals potentially entering the drinking supply. These devices typically require annual testing and inspection to remain in working order, making them an essential part of regulating public health.
How Does Backflow Happen?
Backflow can happen when there is a sudden change in pressure in the water system, such as during a power outage or a main break. Backflow is dangerous when a sudden change in water pressure occurs within the system, such as during a power cut or main break. Water is pushed backwards from its usual flow and creates a reverse flow back into the main water supply. This can introduce pollutants and hazardous materials to the water supply that would otherwise remain contained. To prevent this, backflow prevention devices are installed in plumbing systems to automatically detect changes in pressure and block any reverse flow before it causes health issues or contamination.
Required Backflow Prevention Devices
In some jurisdictions, backflow prevention devices are required by law. Backflow prevention devices are an essential safety precaution that keeps our drinking water from becoming contaminated by whatever is downstream. They ensure that the water feeding our community moves in one direction only. So any chemicals or other materials that may become mixed with the water in a plumbing system can’t flow back into the water supply.
States mandate regular testing and maintenance of backflow prevention devices, ensuring they keep working properly and preventing any dangerous contamination incident. If your area requires their use, it’s important to check your device out at least once a year to keep everyone safe. Schedule your regular testing with Certified Plumbing of Brevard!
Who Can Install a Backflow Prevention Device?
Certified professionals should only do the installation of backflow prevention devices. They have the knowledge and experience to inspect, test, repair, or replace any existing or new backflow prevention device. They are also knowledgeable about local codes and regulations about the installation and use of these devices.
Additionally, not all backflow prevention devices are the same. Depending on the property and its needs, several different types of backflow prevention devices are available. Your local plumber can help you determine which type would be most suitable for your home or business. Your trusted plumbing can help determine the best option. They can also provide further information about installation, safety testing, and maintenance protocols that should be followed.
How Do You Know A Backflow Prevention Device Is Defective?
Several warning signs indicate that your backflow prevention device may need to be replaced or repaired.
- Increased Water Pressre
- Discolored Tap Water
- Strange Odors
- Reduced Water Flow
- Dripping or Leaking Faucets
If any of these symptoms occur, contact a certified professional immediately to inspect your backflow prevention device for potential failures or defects.
Call Certified Plumbing of Brevard
Certified Plumbing of Brevard has been the trusted local choice regarding plumbing needs for over four decades. With 30 years in business and a specialist team offering a wealth of services, ranging from water heater repair, drain cleaning, and backflow testing. You can rest assured that we have your residential or commercial project covered! We also provide 24/7 emergency plumbing solutions. No matter the time — day or night– Certified Plumbing of Brevard is here to fix your plumbing issue!
