Normally, your home’s plumbing sends water in one direction per pipe, like from your water heater to your shower. Sometimes, though, issues can happen that make your home’s plumbing flow in reverse, which we refer to as backflow. As you might guess, though, liquid that backflows into your plumbing is usually more than just plain water. That might not sound too bad, but let’s go over some reasons backflow prevention is a consideration at all (and even some of the options out there!).
Health Protection
Protecting your and your family’s health is the main reason why backflow prevention is so important. When backflow occurs, wastewater systems, garden hoses and even washing machines can all contribute to the contamination of your drinking water supply. Consuming contaminated water with germs, chemicals and other toxins puts your health at risk.
System Integrity
Health isn’t the only thing that contaminated water impacts. Pipes, fittings and appliances are vulnerable to backflow because it introduces pollutants and debris that can cause corrosion, clogs and mechanical failures. Backflow prevention also helps keep the water pressure in your house constant. If you don’t take the necessary precautions, pressure variations might cause your plumbing fixtures to break or waste water.
Insurance Requirements
Insurance companies may stipulate that a home must have adequate backflow protection systems. If that’s the case for yours, a lack of backflow prevention can result in denied claims. Water providers and local governments sometimes require backflow protection devices as well, particularly for properties with pools or irrigation systems. Maintaining water service and avoiding fines or penalties often require compliance with these standards.
Environmental Impact
Preventing backflow has wider environmental ramifications than merely safeguarding your house. All of a community’s water quality is at risk when polluted water makes its way back into the main line. This has the potential to cause severe pollution, which in turn could lead to water waste due to the need for costly treatment. Everyone taking the necessary steps to prevent backflow in their own homes enhances the well-being of your community’s water system and contributes to the conservation of this precious resource.
Types of Backflow Prevention
Once water enters your home’s plumbing system, backflow prevention devices prevent it from flowing back into the main water supply by acting as a barrier. In the event of an unexpected decrease in main-line water pressure, this safeguard is crucial to prevent the reintroduction of polluted water via a siphoning effect. Here are some of the options you’ll find for backflow prevention.
Air Gap
An air gap distances the fixture’s flood level from the water supply outlet. This prevents the redirection of water to the main line. Air gaps are an excellent plumbing solution in most cases, but they aren’t always workable—especially when a direct connection is necessary. In those cases, mechanical backflow preventers come into play.
Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)
Two separate check valves connected in series form a double check valve assembly. These valves only open in one direction and close automatically when the water pressure drops or the flow reverses. Household and light business settings are common places to find DCVAs because of their suitability for low- to medium-hazard applications.
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assembly
When it comes to mechanical backflow preventers, the RPZ is the gold standard. Between the two check valves, which operate separately, is a relief valve that operates hydraulically. In the event that both check valves are inoperable, the design’s pressure-reduction zone will keep the system safe.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
Negative pressure in the supply line can result in backsiphonage, a type of backflow that pressure vacuum breakers can stop. In the event of backsiphonage, they open to admit air into the system, while a spring-loaded check valve closes when water runs normally.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)
An atmospheric vacuum breaker is a less complex device that can prevent backsiphonage. They have an air intake port and a float check valve. A float that drops when water flow stops prevents backsiphonage by letting air into the system. While AVBs are simple to set up and inexpensive, they do have some restrictions. In addition to requiring a vertical installation, they are not suitable for operation under continuous pressure for longer than 12 hours. It’s more common to use them on specific appliances or fixtures than to cover the entire house.
If you need help with backflow prevention in Broomfield, TYCO Plumbing is the place to call. We also specialize in water heater installations, water softeners, kitchen plumbing, sewer repair, gas piping and other plumbing solutions. Call us now to schedule a consultation to speak with an expert about the best backflow prevention method for your home.
