Backflow is one of the most common residential plumbing issues. It occurs when the flow of the supply line reverses, potentially resulting in contamination. Fortunately, there are several ways plumbing contractors can prevent backflow and protect your residence from biohazards. Here’s what you need to know about backflow and prevention.

4 FAQ About Backflow

Why does it occur?

The water from your city’s supply uses pressure to flow out of your faucets and fixtures. When pressure reduces, often due to a broken water main or frozen pipe, contamination from other water sources may infiltrate your home’s supply. This is known as back pressure or back siphonage.

What are the hazards?

When the flow of water reverses due to hydraulic changes, your supply may become contaminated due to cross-connections that occur anywhere along the plumbing pipes. Examples of cross-connections are lawn irrigation systems, water softeners, and hose connections. Potential contaminants include fertilizers, pesticides, human waste, and chlorine.

How do backflow prevention devices work?

If the direction of water reverses, backflow prevention devices stop contamination. They use two methods to do this: air gaps and preventer valves.

Air gaps leave space between faucets and the water collection locations, while preventer valves act as barriers at specific sources of potential contamination.

How do plumbers test backflow?

Since backflow preventer valves may malfunction, testing ensures they work well. A licensed plumber may test a device’s built-in ports using a certified kit and turn off the downstream supply to prevent potential contamination during the process.

Prevent backflow and plumbing contamination with regular testing from Raymond Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. These plumbing contractors provide emergency services, installations, repairs, and maintenance to homes and businesses throughout Lorain, OH. Call (440) 244-5584 to report an emergency plumbing issue and book an appointment. Visit the website to learn more about their work on air conditioning and heating systems to keep your indoor air comfortable.