You should have safeguards in place to keep your drinking water pure and prevent illness in your household. This might include backflow testing to ensure your plumbing system isn’t contaminated with dirty water. If you’re unfamiliar with backflow prevention, review these commonly asked questions to gain some knowledge and protect your family from contamination.

A Brief Introduction to Backflow Testing

What is backflow?

If there are inconsistencies between the various pressures throughout your plumbing system, you could experience backflow. This refers to nonpotable water flowing backwards and into the drinking water system.

Your drinking supply can be contaminated with chemicals, bacteria, sewage, and other pollutants in groundwater or the waste treatment system. Pressure inconsistencies in the plumbing can occur when pipes freeze or burst.

How can you prevent backflow?

A contractor can install a backflow prevention device to reduce the risk of drinking water contamination. The technician will search for vulnerable points of backflow contamination within the system and install a preventer valve.

When attached to a pipe, the device allows water to flow in one direction and prevents it from flowing in reverse. This will keep dirty water from pools and other outside sources away from your drinking water.   

What does the testing process involve?

A plumber will attach a testing kit to the device to make sure the backflow preventer valve is working. They’ll shut off the water flowing downstream and see whether the preventer is keeping contaminants out of the water. 

How often should you schedule testing?

If you have an in-ground sprinkler system on your property, a preventer device might already be onsite. Otherwise, you might need one if the property has a private well or uses solar heating. Schedule a yearly test to make sure the device is functioning properly.

For backflow testing to keep wastewater out of your family’s drinking water, contact the team at Snyder Mechanical in Elko, NV. Licensed to perform plumbing work in Nevada and California, the professionals provide testing, as well as drainage, water filtration, and heating and air conditioning services. Learn more about the crew’s work online or dial (775) 738-5616 for an appointment.