The Significance of Testing Backflow Prevention Devices Every Twelve Months

27 October 2021

The plumbing system of properties is designed to maintain the distribution of potable water as well as the removal of wastewater. This specific system features a series of pipes and fixtures that are typically installed in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Given the primary function of the plumbing system, its components must be maintained optimally so that property owners can obtain numerous benefits. For one, a well-maintained plumbing system can ensure that the properties can maintain good hygiene since some of its components can keep the wastewater away from the properties while others ensure the optimal delivery of potable water. Another benefit of maintaining the system is that it can preserve vital resources like water and money.

Maintenance is also important for the plumbing system so it can prevent backflow.

Two Primary Reasons behind Backflow

Backflow often happens whenever the water inside the pipes begins to flow incorrectly. Without resolving this issue immediately, the potable water could be contaminated with harmful elements, which can then lead to serious illnesses and even deaths.

There are two main reasons behind the occurrence of backflow.

1. Backsiphonage: Backsiphonage occurs whenever the water changes in direction due to a sudden drop in water pressure. This specific occurrence may be generated by the repairs done by the authorities. Backsiphonage can also occur if there are breaks in the city main.
2. Backpressure: Backpressure, alternatively, happens whenever the water pressure increases significantly. This particular occurrence can happen if the water is pushed back to the pipes, generating harmful backflow. The installation of heating systems, elevated tanks, and pressure producing systems can all contribute to the increase of water pressure.

Utilising Backflow Prevention Devices

To avoid the occurrence of backflow, property owners should utilise backflow prevention devices on their plumbing systems. Backflow prevention devices are devices that can regulate the water flow and movement in the correct direction. They work as barriers that can deter contaminants from infiltrating the potable water of the properties.

These special devices are typically installed in cross-connections, which interconnect clean water supply to places where the water is needed. Backflow prevention devices must always be present on plumbing systems that have a significant presence of hazardous chemicals, fertilisers, industrial fluids, and other sources of water. Even residential properties can maximise these devices.

But for these devices to operate optimally, they should be tested every twelve months. Professional plumbers must assess the condition of the devices so they can confirm if they are still effective in preventing backflow. During the testing of these things, they often open and close their valves and check for any leakage and other possible indicators of looming problems.

The Significance of Thorough Testing

With regular testing of backflow prevention devices, the plumbing systems of the properties are expected to prevent the spread of illnesses. Thorough testing of the said devices can likewise prevent metals and other minuscule elements from contaminating the water. Even chemical waste products are deterred from entering the plumbing systems with the help of thorough testing of the systems.

To know more about backflow prevention devices, you can call us at G. Brand & Sons.

Optimized by: Netwizard SEO