Understanding Backflow Prevention: The When And The Why

Posted on: 12 July 2016

Many plumbing systems benefit from the addition of a component called a backflow prevention device. It's name is appropriate as it prevents contaminated water from running back up the pipes into the clean water source. In some states, it's necessary for every commercial property to have one of these devices. If you are in an area where these devices aren't actually required, it's in your best interest to understand where they're beneficial anyway. Here are a few situations where you should consider backflow prevention.

You Have Irrigation

If there's an irrigation system in place on the property, adding a backflow prevention device will help to prevent the water in the irrigation system from contaminating the rest of the water supply on the property. After all, you don't want to have any soil, dirt or landscaping debris flowing through a drain opening and back into your pipes. Ask your plumber to help you with a suitable backflow prevention device for your system.

You Have a Well

Any time a property runs on well water, it's important that you have backflow prevention to keep the system flowing the way that it is supposed to. When it comes to well water, anything that backs up is at risk of contaminating the entire well, and therefore the entire water supply for the property. This makes protecting your water system essential. Backflow prevention will ensure that no drain water flows back toward the well and contaminates it.

You've Added On

If you've built an addition on the property that included new plumbing, like a bathroom or something similar, it's in your best interest to add backflow prevention where the addition begins. It's important because any modification to the plumbing can alter the way that the system flows. Make sure that your construction contractors are equipped to add the backflow prevention device during the construction so that you don't risk any damage.

When you own a commercial property, it's in your best interest to keep your water supply as clean and safe as possible. The more information you have about backflow prevention, the better. After all, being proactive is the best way to ensure that your water supply is safe. If you aren't sure, consider talking with a local plumber for more help. He or she can pinpoint the best places for you to install these devices in order to maintain consistent flow through your plumbing and avoid costly plumbing repairs.

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