Ensuring the quality of your home’s water supply is essential. However, there are several situations beyond our control where water gets contaminated - such as the issue of backflow.
If you notice water backing up in your plumbing system due to issues like a burst or frozen pipes, there is a high chance that the contaminated water will mix with the clean water supply. A great way to deal with this plumbing problem is to install two kinds of backflow devices: air gap and backflow preventer.
However, your task does not end at simply installing a preventer. It would be best if you got backflow testing done routinely. But why do you need to do this? In this article, we will be exploring why backflow prevention devices and their testing are important. Let us begin!
What is a Backflow Preventer?
Backflow prevention devices are installed to protect potable water supplies from contamination through plumbing pipes. A backflow preventer, also known as a backflow prevention device or backflow prevention assembly, is a system that is designed and installed to prevent backflow.
Backflow occurs when the flow of water is reversed, such as when the water pressure in the water lines drops and allows contaminants to be sucked back into the potable water supply. This reversal of flow can result in water contamination. Backflow prevention devices create a physical barrier between potable water lines and sources of contamination.
There are various types of backflow prevention devices for different applications. These are installed based on the degree of hazard for backflow and water contamination. Most commercial and industrial buildings require a backflow prevention system to comply with plumbing regulations.
It is important for any backflow prevention devices or systems to be installed properly and undergo regular testing to ensure they are functioning as required. This helps ensure compliance with backflow prevention regulations, which are in place to protect public health by preventing cross-connections and water pollution into potable water supplies.
Why Are Backflow Preventers Important?
1. Safe Water Supply
Any contamination in your drinking water can directly affect your health in the worst ways possible.
Dirty water can come from a broken water main, septic tanks, etc. When backflow occurs, harmful microorganisms, heavy metals and toxins travel through your plumbing lines and enter your water supply system. This is why installing backflow prevention devices in your plumbing system is important.
Many signs indicate someone has consumed contaminated water, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It is strongly advised that you get your backflow preventer assemblies tested as soon as these health issues appear to ensure your home has a safe drinking water supply.
2. Cost-Efficient
Another reason why building owners should install a backflow prevention device in their plumbing system is that it is pretty cost-efficient. Additionally, these devices prevent backflow from occurring, which can help you save the money that would have otherwise been spent on dealing with a severe backflow incident.
3. Easy To Maintain
If you do not have time to maintain a backflow device, you don’t need to worry because they don’t require much maintenance! Plus, most backflow preventers available on the market are easy to use.
There are no hassles when it comes to their installation process either.
4. Prevents Damage To Plumbing Lines
Backflow preventers not only prevent health risks but also protect your property from potential damage caused due to backflow.
For instance, when contaminated water flows through the water mains of your home, there is a high chance that the harsh chemicals in the water will damage your plumbing pipes. A preventer protects this from happening. Backflow testing also stops structural damage, keeping the surrounding walls crack and moisture-free.
Benefits Of Getting Backflow Prevention Testing
1. Ensure The Workability Of Preventers
One of the most important reasons you should never skip the routine tests of your backflow preventers is to ensure the devices are working correctly. If the professional plumbers you hire for backflow testing find any issue with their functioning, they suggest getting them repaired or replaced.
Regular backflow testing will help you ensure that no polluted water flows through your property’s plumbing system due to a faulty preventer.
Further, getting such tests done can help you identify issues at their early stages. This will help you save up on the money that would have otherwise been spent on getting expensive repairs at a later stage.
2. Safeguard Your Community’s Health
Another important reason you should always complete backflow testing is to ensure that your community can avoid falling prey to the hazards of drinking dirty water. Since contaminated water quickly flows into different regions, there is a high chance that it will reach several houses in your community in a short period.
Getting backflow testing done routinely ensures that your prevention devices work as efficiently as possible to prevent backflow. This can help you avoid many water-borne diseases, such as bacterial gastroenteritis and other high-hazard situations.
3. Maintain Your Peace Of Mind
Living in an area close to fire sprinklers or irrigation systems puts you at a higher risk of receiving contaminated water. Hence, it is essential to be free of the constant worries of whether or not the drinking water in your glass is safe.
Routine backflow testing can help you get the peace of mind you deserve. Once you have a professional confirm that your backflow preventers are working fine and the water supply system in your house is safe, you will be much more relaxed.
Keeping Your Water Supply Safe & Clean
Contaminated water can be a menace to deal with. This is why installing backflow preventers is very important, especially if you live near industrial areas, irrigation farms, or facilities that use harsh chemicals. Getting them installed ensures that you receive clean water. They are also relatively cost-efficient and easy to maintain.
However, getting backflow testing is as essential as installing the preventer. It gives you peace of mind that you are not drinking polluted water.
At Woolf Plumbing & Gas, we work to provide our clients with only the best services when it comes to plumbing. Call our emergency plumbers in Perth today to have your backflow device installed and tested by local professionals!
