Backflow: Problematic and Dangerous
Water in a municipal water system generally flows from the water source, such as a reservoir, to homes and then into the sewers. Backflow is an unfortunate circumstance in which the water flows back from the sewage into the main water supply. It doesn’t take a master plumber to know this is a serious problem. This is why any home that is connected to a municipal water system is typically required to have a backflow preventer installed. They are also required to be tested on an annual basis. This article will discuss what backflow testing is and why it is so important.
The Hazardous Problems Associated With Backflow
There are several obvious hazards to backflow. If backflow occurs, the water supply can be contaminated because wastewater can flow back into the main water supply. Water contamination can be harmful chemicals, microbes, and bacteria that pose serious health risks, making it a major public concern.
The Backflow Test: What, When, and Why?
The backflow test is a method of ensuring the backflow preventer is working properly. This service is performed by a certified backflow tester, not just any plumbing technician. It is supposed to be done annually, but it takes only 45 minutes or so, and often, the homeowner does not need to be present for it. The backflow testing follows these simple steps:
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Attach the backflow testing equipment.
- Tester will check the pressure to open one valve in the backflow preventer.
- Tester will check the second valve and its pressure to open and close it.
- If there is any problem, the tester will repair and test it again.
- Upon completion of the test, the backflow preventer can be certified.
- The water main can be turned back on.
The Importance of Testing the Backflow Prevention Device on a Property
Backflow prevention is more than just a municipal or urban concern. It is a public safety issue. That is why annual backflow testing and installing a backflow preventer on the property of new buildings are so important. Some of the major arguments for backflow preventer testing include:
- Public Health and Safety: This is the main reason behind any laws or regulations governing backflow preventers. Because contaminated water can make everyone sick, there is a need to prevent the contamination that comes with backflow. An outbreak of illness would strain a city’s resources even beyond the fact that this would be a tragedy in and of itself.
- Protects the Water: Water is a necessary resource for life, particularly in a town or city setting. Backflow preventers keep the water safe.
About The Darville Company
Experts in on-time and 24/7 emergency service, The Darville Company provides excellent customer service using the latest technologies to Odessa, TX, and beyond. Call today for satisfaction-guaranteed services like backflow testing in Odessa, TX!