What is a Backflow Prevention Device
A backflow device, also known as a backflow prevention device, is a mechanism used to protect potable water supplies from contamination or pollution due to backflow. In water supply systems, water is usually maintained at a significant pressure to allow it to flow from the tap, shower, or other fixture.
Water pressure may fail or be reduced when a water main bursts, pipes freeze, or there is unexpectedly high demand on the water system. Reduced pressure in the pipe could allow contaminated water from the ground, from storage, or from other sources to be drawn into the system.
Backflow prevention devices are designed to block this backward flow into the water supply. They are essential in commercial, industrial, and high residential risk conditions where there’s a chance that a harmful substance might enter the water supply.
How Do They Work?
But how exactly does this happen? These devices rely on specific valves: check valves or two one-way valves. These valves get lined up in a series to prevent backflow from occurring. Think of it as a one-way door—once it’s gone out, there’s no other way for it to come back in.
If any pressure coming back to the water main exceeds that of the route of flow, then the valves close, preventing backflow. So, when the sprinklers go off, the pressure releases upstream, therefore increasing the downstream (toward the water main) pressure. Valves shut, eliminating the possibility of backflow.
Fixed Price Backflow Valve Testing, Competitive Servicing And Installation Rates
01
Backflow Testing
Our endorsed backflow plumbers can quickly and effectively test all your backflow prevention valves to ensure they’re working correctly and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
02
Inspection And Maintenance Report
After testing we complete all the necessary paperwork and report the state of your valves to your relevant water authority, ensuring you’re up to date and compliant for another year. All clients are provided with a copy of our test report at the same time as the relevant authority for their records.
03
Service and installation
Backflow devices are not infallible – they contain seals, valves and moving parts that are subject to wear and tear. If your valves aren’t working as they should, we can quote to service, repair or replace your valve.
04
Backflow Prevention Valve
We can provide affordable, reliable and high-quality installation of a backflow prevention valve or carry out expert backflow prevention valve testing that is second to none.
05
RPZ Valve installation
If you need to get your existing Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valves tested for compliance, broken valves repaired, or new ones installed, our team of accredited, licensed backflow specialists can take care of it.
06
RPZ Valve Testing
Getting your RPZ valves tested annually is essential for maintaining safe clean water and to maintain compliance. Just give us a call and we’ll have a licensed, registered backflow plumber out to your location to test and assess your valves.
07
Airgap Testing
A registered air gap is an approved method of achieving backflow compliance where either backsiphonage or backpressure conditions may exist. These are commonly found on water trucks, water trailers and vacuum excavators.
Air gap testing ensures proper backflow prevention by verifying a sufficient physical separation (air gap) between the water supply and the tank or vessel being filled. This separation prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the potable water system.
We can attend, inspect and provide a test report on the same day to allow you to use a hydrant standpipe.