Backflow Testing: What is It and Why Is It Important?

The Time and Place for Backflow Testing

It’s assumed that the water in the home is safe to drink. However, that’s not always the case. There are some situations that allow human waste, chemicals, and gases to enter into the drinking water, which makes using or drinking the water dangerous to one’s health. This is known as a plumbing backflow. 

Defining Backflow

So what exactly is backflow? It occurs when the fluid flowing through the pipes reverses its direction of flow due to a change in pressure, and it poses a major threat to water safety. Plumbing systems contain a large number of cross-connections. As water comes back towards the house, it can enter into clean water sources through these cross-connections and pollute the water. 

The backflow could start right outside of the house, or it could start from the city water supply. If it starts from the city, the level of danger is even higher because there are additional chemicals and waste that could enter the clean water sources. Backflow can cause all sorts of health risks, including the following:

• Waste and chemicals can enter drinking water.
• Chemicals that enter the water can burn skin when washing hands or taking a shower.
• Propane gas can enter the water mains and pose fire hazards.
• Bacteria can transmit diseases and illnesses through the water supply.

The Basics of Backflow Prevention

As mentioned, plumbing backflow is caused by a change in pressure that causes fluid to change directions. If the downstream pressure of non-potable water grows higher than the pressure of the main water source, backflow can happen.

There are two main steps to prevent backflow and its negative health effects. 

1. Test regularly: Professional plumbers will look at the gate and relief valves to see if there are any irregularities in water movement. If backflow is detected or has been known to affect other homes in the area, a backflow preventer can be installed. 
2. Install a backflow preventer: The backflow preventer is a small device that can be placed on the home’s water pipes. Essentially, it forces the water to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow and all the havoc it can cause.

Why Is Backflow Testing Necessary?

Of the two steps listed above, backflow testing is the most critical. Homeowners can install the backflow preventer, but it still has the potential to malfunction over time. Therefore, it’s best to regularly test for backflow to ensure that it doesn’t happen, even with precautions put in place. Testing for backflow helps homeowners know whether there are immediate plumbing changes they need to make.

In the case of a backflow, homeowners need to shut off the water in their house immediately. This prevents contaminated water from making contact with those in the house. Since a backflow is considered a major plumbing emergency, a professional plumber should be contacted as soon as possible to implement a permanent solution.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC 

At Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC, the needs and safety of the customer is of the utmost importance. Loyal customers have been entrusting their plumbing needs to Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC since 1986. They provide specialized plumbing and remodeling services to residents and business owners when they need it most.

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