The Function and Installation of Backflow Preventers

When we turn on a faucet, we anticipate clean, drinkable water to be released. However, in the event of a flood or other type of disaster, it is important to prevent the contents of a building’s pipes from traveling in the opposite direction, returning to its entry point. This is also called backflow which has the potential to contaminate potable drinking water with harmful chemicals, bacteria, and more. As such, backflow occurs when pressure within two points in a plumbing system are unequal, like when highly pressurized water moves toward low-pressure water. The solution to this potential problem lies in backflow preventers which can be installed in water supply pipes to keep water flowing in one direction. To learn more about backflow preventers, be sure to read on.

Commonly found in infrastructure, the primary reason people have a backflow preventer installed is because their home, office space, or other similar building features a potable water supply that could face the risk of sewage contamination as a result of reverse flow. This is absolutely essential from a health perspective, as backflow may include fertilizers, pesticides, soaps, human waste, chlorine, and other various substances that will contaminate drinking water. Moreover, if a water line break were to happen as a result of backflow, water would no longer be pushed forward into the home or commercial building and would instead enter city water lines, causing contamination to all pipes that are connected. With a backflow valve, one can best avoid expensive and lengthy repairs that impact their access to water as a result of a pipe burst. Newer homes and commercial businesses tend to be built with a backflow preventer, while older buildings are required to install one in several states.

There are several factors to consider prior to choosing a specific backflow valve for installation, including its exact placement. They should be installed in a secure, above-ground enclosure to keep costs down. Another thing to think about is whether a strainer is needed before installing the valve; these components work to keep the backflow protector active when the distribution system has a history of water main breaks. Backflow preventers are always positioned horizontally or vertically depending on the specifications for each respective product, so it is important to take note of which configuration they have been authorized to be used in.

Purchasing and installing backflow valves for your property’s pipelines is well worth the investment, especially in the case of a flood emergency. You will be pleased to find that this type of contractor work is not costly and is much quicker than other similar jobs. It is estimated that an entire backflow preventer installation service costs anywhere between $135 and $1,000 depending on the size of the pipe system. In addition to testing and installation permit costs, one must consider the price of the device itself and the labor necessary to install it.

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