Plumbing systems are designed so that water only flows into your home, through your plumbing, and into your septic or sewer system. Sometimes, however, conditions can cause backflow to occur. This residential plumbing issue can create problems in your household, but understanding the various causes can help you prevent future occurrences. Below are answers to questions homeowners often have on the topic.

What to Know About Backflow

How does it happen?

Backflow is water that pushes out of your home, through the main line, and back into the main water supply. If often occurs because of abnormal pressure changes in your system. Broken or frozen pipes often change the pressure in the plumbing and cause backflow.

What problems does it create?

Backflow introduces dirty water back into the public supply. This water may contain pesticides or fertilizers if your yard drainage leaks into the system.

Significant backflow from your septic tank can also introduce human waste and other unsanitary debris. Soaps, chlorine, cleaning solutions, and other chemical-based products are also harmful consequences of this problem.

How do you know if you have backflow?

Drastic changes in water quality are an immediate sign of the issue. The water may come out brown or yellow from the faucet, and it often smells like sulfur.

Rust and sediment may also be present, and the water may taste slightly metallic. You may notice slow drainage throughout the home or water rising from the drains.

If you notice these problems, contact a residential plumbing professional for backflow testing. Plumbers will use a gate-and-valve release device to test changes in the water system. They can detect reverse movement and will also identify leaks, breaks, and other contributing factors.

What is a backflow prevention system?

Backflow prevention systems are fail-safes that ensure water can only flow into your home through faucets and fixtures. This one-way gate allows water to enter through the main line and will close if reverse pressure pushes against it. A plumber can help you add one to your home if needed.

If you have concerns about backflow, the residential plumbing team at K & G Plumbing & Heating Inc. can help. Based in Adams County, NE, this plumbing contractor has served customers since 1992, providing everything from bathroom remodeling and installations to broken pipe repairs. Learn about their full scope of work on their website, or call (402) 463-4470 to schedule an inspection.