What is Backflow?
Think mummies and vampires are scary? They’re nothing compared to backflow. Backflow is one of the biggest dangers when it comes to keeping water safe from contamination. Backflow occurs when water unwantedly siphons backward due to a change of pressure in the pipe. This causes contaminated water and chemicals to be pulled back into what is supposed to be stored, treated water, contaminating it.
Why is Backflow a Bad Thing?
Backflow is a major public health problem because it can expose people to contaminated water. In case studies over the years, some of the things people have been exposed to due to backflow are horrifying. Backflow events have exposed people to:
- Contaminated groundwater
- Chemicals
- Fertilizers
- Human waste
- Bodily fluids, including blood
There are several ways that backflow can be prevented depending on the circumstance. In some cases, it is avoided by leaving an air gap between anything that may be at risk of causing backflow. However, in many cases, air gaps are not feasible, so backflow preventers must be put in place.
How is Backflow Testing Done?
Backflow preventers are devices that allow air to be siphoned back into plumbing instead of contaminated water or chemicals, or they stop the flow altogether. However, these devices are subject to failure over time and should be tested as often as necessary to ensure that they protect treated water by preventing backflow. Whether the device is on residential or commercial property, the type of prevention, its age, and several other factors may influence how often backflow testing is supposed to occur. It’s typically recommended once a year.
Backflow testing must be done by a qualified plumber. Plumbers use a special method and pressure gauges to simulate a backflow situation and verify that the device or prevention method works. The plumber will then tag the device showing it is reliable until the next testing procedure is done.
Why is Backflow Testing Necessary?
Water contamination is a danger to public health. It can be a transmitter of bacteria and parasites and a carrier of leached chemicals and other threats. When these are ingested, the toll on human health can be staggering. Municipal treatment facilities work hard to ensure these threats are neutralized, but the only thing that ensures water stays treated while flowing through pipework are backflow devices.
However, these backflow preventers mean nothing if they aren’t checked routinely and fixed when they aren’t working properly. When they are tested for proper operation, homeowners can feel peace of mind that their home and water supply are safe from contamination.
About Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning
Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is a locally owned and operated company serving Salisbury, MD, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, personalized service options, and open and clear communication. Call them today for backflow testing and repair in Salisbury, MD.
