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Notable Symptoms of a Failing Backflow Prevention Device

23 July 2021

The plumbing system of a building is comprised of two separate subsystems that can help carry out important functions. One of the subsystems is intended to bring clean water in for normal use, while the other subsystem is designed to take out wastewater. These subsystems and their components should always work independently to make the health of the occupants safe from illnesses and avoid backflow.

One way to ensure the effectiveness of the plumbing system is through the installation of a backflow prevention device. With this device, the instance of backflow can be prevented. Backflow refers to the reversal of the water flow from its intended direction. Failure to install this device can trigger backflow, causing the clean water to be contaminated by the wastewater. Backflow can likewise generate health implications and plumbing system damages in the long run.

But even with a backflow prevention device, its regular use can still deteriorate some of its parts and components. Here are some symptoms of a failing backflow prevention device that you should know.

Water Discolouration

One visible symptom of a failing backflow prevention device is the discolouration of your clean water supply. Your tap water should be crystal clear. Hence, if your tap water has become cloudy or turned into brown, yellow, or pink, then it is a clear sign that your device has some serious problems. Leaving the tap water dirty can be dangerous for you and others since it may be infected with bacteria and other elements. Consumption of this water can then cause nausea, diarrhea, stomach aches, gastrointestinal issues, and dehydration.

Leak Formation

Another symptom of a failing backflow prevention device is the presence of water leaks. As you utilise this device, its components may gradually deteriorate over its continuous use, leading to substantial water leaks. Water often leaks due to the presence of dirt build-up. It can likewise leak due to the thermal expansion or water pressure change in your plumbing system. These factors can easily affect the performance of your backflow prevention device. Therefore, you need to call for a professional whenever there are leaks to avoid mould growth, emission of odours, and other issues.

Sluggish Drainage

One more symptom of a failing backflow prevention device is the slow drainage of water. Your backflow prevention device often works optimally to avoid backflow from occurring. If this device, however, becomes broken, then the water may become trapped in some parts of the plumbing system instead of letting it go, preventing it from circulating properly. This issue will subsequently generate water backups, which may become present on the sink, drains, and other similar fixtures. Sluggish drainage of water in your kitchen or bathroom can likewise be triggered by a failing backflow prevention device.

Other signs of a failing backflow prevention device include the presence of a foul sulphur odour in your water, rust particles or sediment in your clean water supply, and unusual water taste. If you have any questions about this device, you can contact us at G. Brand & Sons.

The Best Brand in Plumbing – G. Brand & Sons

For more information on our range of services, you are welcome to contact us by visiting our page at: https://gbrand.com.au/contact

Office: 63a Grange Rd Cheltenham VIC 3192
Phone: 0411 072 131
Email: bruce@gbrand.com.au
After Hours: 0411 072 132 or 0411 072 133

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