Aug

Back Flow Prevention

by Lindsay Parker

Home and business owners who complain about their annual back flow device tests normally do not understand what the consequences of having a broken device means. I try to take the time to explain the importance of back flow prevention and why these devices are so important to the safety and security of our clean water sources.

Back flow devices protect a water source from being contaminated by whatever the back flow device is connected to. This can be important for obvious reasons, especially when the water source is connected to hazardous equipment.

Back flow prevention is put in place to ensure that there are no problems with contamination of our drinking water or the water line. Our water systems are normally needed for the general health and welfare of the public, so having a device that prevents water from flowing back into the water mains is very important.

There are different types of devices which can be installed, depending on the water system or potential hazard that can occur. A simple device can be installed on your outside faucets for under $5, while a more complex device can be installed on your water connection for over $300.

Many of these devices are tested annually, which can be very frustrating for its owners. Yet what they may not realize is that this testing is required because there are still over 10,000 reported cased of cross contamination due to back flow.

It is understandable for owners of these devices to become frustrated by the constant testing that occurs. Since many of these devices are tested annually they mostly don’t worry about the consequences that may happen if it weren’t working correctly. It is important to realize that there are still over 10,000 reported cases of back flow contamination each year. If you own or are responsible for a back flow device, you need to know that back flow devices are prone to failure. The reasons for these failures range from the condition or the piping or device, to the equipment connected to it.

The law requires back flow devices to be installed correctly. There are plumbing and building codes put in place to make certain that the law is maintained. Back flow assemblies are also required by law to be tested to make certain that everything is operating correctly.

If a back flow device is not working properly (fails to operate) it will need to be repaired or replaced. A good tester will be able to determine why a device is malfunctioning or seeming to malfunction. Digital equipment is now used to aid in diagnosing any problems that arise.

About the Author:

If you would like to learn more important information on Re-piping, visit Action Plumbing. Action Plumbing is a family owned and operated company serving Utah families plumbing, heating and AC needs for over 13 years.