When you flush your toilet or rinse your dishes at home, you want all that waste and dirty water to flow directly out of your pipes to be replaced with clean water. When your plumbing is functioning properly, this is the process your pipes go through on a daily basis. Unfortunately, sometimes things can go a bit haywire and you could learn an unfortunate lesson on the concept of backflow. In the greater La Crosse, WI, area, locals choose Bernie Buchner as their primary source for residential plumbing services. As expert plumbers with a reputation for fast, efficient work at fair prices, they often walk customers through backflow issues and how to prevent them. 

Understanding Backflow

What Is Backflow?

Backflow refers to contaminated water that reverses direction. As a result, waste water “backflows” into your clean water lines, causing cross-contamination. Backflow doesn’t happen on its own—generally speaking, it’s caused by a traumatic incident such as a pipe bursting, a pipe freezing, or an unusually high demand for water all at the same time. 

Why Is Testing Important?

As a safeguard against inconvenient and costly repairs related to backflow issues, you should always have your plumbing system checked by a trusted plumber. Schedule annual inspections with your plumbing service team and be sure to request backflow testing as part of your maintenance routine. 

What Can I Do to Prevent Issues?

In addition to routine backflow testing, there are safeguards you can install to further prevent this issue. Talk to your plumber about installing a backflow prevention device so your clean water supply is always protected. 

If you’re a homeowner in the greater La Crosse, WI, area and you’re looking for an experienced plumber who can provide quality work at affordable rates both day and night, call Bernie Buchner today at (608) 784-9000 to schedule your appointment. For more information on their residential plumbing services as well as their commercial HVAC options, check out their website.