Backflow Testing: Types Of Backflow Preventers

Key Takeaways:

• It is essential to have regular backflow testing performed on your plumbing system to prevent contaminated water from backing into the clean water supply.
• When selecting a backflow preventer for your plumbing system, you must consider your property’s specific needs and requirements and choose a preventer that meets those needs.
• Common backflow preventers include reduced pressure principle (RPZ) valves, double-check valves, and pressure vacuum breaker assemblies (PVBA).
• Working with a qualified professional for all backflow testing and preventer installation or maintenance is vital.
• Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing offers backflow testing and plumbing services to customers in Parrish, FL, and the surrounding areas.

Suppose you are a business or commercial property owner. In that case, you must know backflow testing procedures and when each type of preventer should be used. There are many types of backflow preventers on the market, and knowing which is right for your business cannot be apparent. It’s essential to be familiar with the different types of backflow preventers and what each type is used for.

Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing will discuss the most common types of backflow preventers: check valves, reduced pressure principle devices (RPZ), double-check valves, and more. We’ll also talk about when you should use each type of preventer and the importance of regular backflow testing. Stay safe and protect your water supply by reading this post!

What is Backflow?

Backflow is the undesired reversal of the water flow or other liquids, gases, or other substances into the public water supply system or customer’s potable water system. It occurs when there is a decrease in water pressure in the central supply system, which can happen for many reasons, including power outages, firefighting, and pipeline breaks. If not adequately prevented or corrected, backflow can contaminate the public water supply with harmful chemicals, bacteria, or other pollutants.

What are the Different Kinds of Backflow?

There are two kinds of backflow, backpressure and back siphonage. Backpressure backflow occurs when the pressure increases on the customer’s side of the water meter greater than the pressure in the central supply system. It can happen if a booster pump or a gravity-fed system is used. Back siphonage backflow occurs when the pressure decreases in the primary supply system, which can happen due to a power outage or a break in the pipeline. This type of backflow can suck contaminants into the system through open faucets or hose bibs.

How Can I Prevent Backflow?

Installing a backflow prevention device (BPD) on your property is the best way. BPDs are designed to stop backflow by creating a physical barrier preventing contaminated water from flowing backward into the potable water system. There are many different types of BPDs available on the market, so choosing one appropriate for your specific needs is essential.

How Do I Test for Backflow?

If you have a BPD installed on your property, it must be tested regularly to ensure it is working correctly. Backflow testing should be done at least once per year by a qualified professional. During the test, the professional will connect a testing device to your BPD and measure the amount of water that passes through it. Suppose the amount of water flowing through the device is more significant than what is allowed. In that case, your BPD is not working correctly and needs to be repaired or replaced.

What is Backflow Testing?

Backflow testing is testing a home or business’s plumbing system to ensure that water flows in the correct direction. Backflow can occur when there is a change in water pressure, which can cause contaminated sewage water to flow back into the clean water supply. Backflow testing is necessary because it helps to prevent contamination of the clean water supply and protects public health.

Why Is Backflow Testing Important?

Backflow testing is necessary because it helps to prevent contamination of the clean water supply. Contamination of the clean water supply can occur when there is a difference in water pressure, which can result in contaminated water flowing back into the pure water supply. Backflow testing helps to ensure that water is flowing in the correct direction and protects public health.

How Often Should Backflow Testing Be Done?

Most experts recommend that backflow testing be done at least once a year. However, some factors, such as the type of plumbing system and the level of risk for contamination, may require more frequent testing.

What Should I Expect During A Backflow Test?

A qualified professional will attach a series of hoses and valves to your plumbing system during a backflow test. They will then use a pump to create a slight negative pressure in the design, allowing them to test for leaks or backward flow.

Types of Backflow Preventers

1. Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ)

This kind of backflow preventer is a device used to protect water supplies from contamination. It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. The RPZ backflow preventer is installed in the water line before the service connection.

2. Double Check Valve (DCV)

This kind of backflow preventer is used to protect water supplies from contamination. It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. After the service connection, the DCV backflow preventer is installed in the water line.

3. Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)

It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. The PVB backflow preventer is installed in the water line before the service connection.

4. Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)

It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. After the service connection, the AVB backflow preventer is installed in the water line.

5. Spill Resistant Vacuum Breaker (SRVB)

It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. The SRVB backflow preventer is installed in the water line before the service connection.

6. Dual Check Valve (DCV)

It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. After the service connection, the DCV backflow preventer is installed in the water line.

7. Intermediate Atmospheric Vent (IAV)

It consists of two check valves, a pressure relief valve, and an isolation valve. The IAV backflow preventer is installed in the water line before the service connection.

8. Thermal Expansion Valve

A thermal expansion valve (TEV) is a backflow preventer used to protect against thermal expansion. TEVs are typically installed on hot water lines and other types of piping exposed to high temperatures. They relieve excess pressure from the system and prevent damage to piping or fittings.

9. Backwater Valve

A backwater valve (BWV) is a backflow preventer used to protect against flooding. BWVs are typically installed on sewer lines and other types of piping that are exposed to floodwaters. BMW works by preventing water from getting back into the system and protecting the piping from damage or collapse.

10. Check Valve

A check valve is a backflow preventer that only allows water to run in one direction. Check valves are typically installed on water lines and other piping with a risk of backflow. Check valves work by allowing water to flow through them in the forward direction but preventing it from flowing backward.

Need Back Flow Testing and Plumbing Services in Parish, FL? No Problem!

If you need backflow prevention services in Parish, FL, or the surrounding area, contact Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing. We have more than 20 years of experience in plumbing services, and our certified technicians are the best in the business. Plus, we’re insured and licensed, so you can ensure your project will be handled with care. Schedule a free backflow test today to see how we can help keep your property safe from water damage. And don’t forget to ask about our free estimates – we’d love to show you what we can do for your home or business!

10. Check Valve

A check valve is a backflow preventer that only allows water to run in one direction. Check valves are typically installed on water lines and other piping with a risk of backflow. Check valves work by allowing water to flow through them in the forward direction but preventing it from flowing backward.

Need Back Flow Testing and Plumbing Services in Parrish, FL? No Problem!

If you need backflow prevention services in Parrish, FL, or the surrounding area, contact Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing. We have more than 20 years of experience in plumbing services, and our certified technicians are the best in the business. Plus, we’re insured and licensed, so you can ensure your project will be handled with care. Schedule a free backflow test today to see how we can help keep your property safe from water damage. And don’t forget to ask about our free estimates – we’d love to show you what we can do for your home or business!