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No homeowner wants to deal with backflow, a plumbing issue that occurs in pipes connected to a waste-filled public water supply. Thankfully, certain devices exist to prevent backflow and keep you safe from contaminated water.
Find out which plumbing device prevents backflow in this informative guide. Then, reach out to Titanium Plumbing & Heating for a trusted plumber in Fair Lawn, NJ. It’s a great way to improve your plumbing system, thanks to our years of experience and high-quality equipment.
Understanding Backflow
Plumbers see these water disasters occurring wherever a backflow prevention device isn’t in place. It’s the unwanted mixing of clean and contaminated water when wastewater flows in the reverse direction. If you encounter backflow and consume the water, you’ll be at risk for serious health hazards given the many contaminants and pollutants involved.
To prevent these issues, local building codes require the water line to have one of the common types of backflow prevention devices for water safety. These devices must be present in all types of water lines, including residential and industrial systems.
Signs of Backflow
Before we reveal which plumbing device prevents backflow, let’s go over common warning signs of backflow. Your water link should have a backflow prevention device in place to uphold water quality at home or in the office, but it’s possible that the device will malfunction over time.
Don’t wait to reach out to a professional plumber if you experience any of the following issues:
- Water leaks: A faulty backflow prevention valve can leak due to changes in water pressure or expansion. Keep an eye out for water damage, mold, or dripping water, and then call an expert to inspect the device.
- Sluggish drains: Broken backflow valves tend to trap water in the pipe, forcing it to back up in drains throughout your home.
- Water discoloration: Call a plumber if your water supply looks yellow, brown, or cloudy. Don’t consume discolored water as this can lead to serious health concerns.
Double Check Valves Help Prevent Backflow
When choosing the right backflow preventer, consider the equipment known as a “double check valve.” This simple plumbing device consists of two valves that shut simultaneously to avoid damage due to changes in water pressure. Getting a tight seal on each of these valves helps limit chemicals and organisms in contaminated water from entering your water supply.
This backflow prevention device gets the most use in specialty types of water lines, such as those that connect to:
- Boilers
- Fire sprinklers
- Lawn irrigation systems
The Role of Reduced Pressure Zones
Ask a plumber which plumbing device prevents backflow in residential areas, and they’ll tell you that a reduced pressure zone system serves the most people in Fair Lawn and beyond. Like a double check valve, these systems utilize two check valves to keep out unsanitary water. They also contain a relief valve that will drain any contaminated water that enters the pipes.
Most property owners have reduced pressure zone systems in their water pipes and enjoy plenty of water quality protection. The double check valves seal the pipe and the relief valve eliminates unwanted dirty water. All water may drain from the relief valve if there’s a problem with either the main water line or check pipes, but be sure to have a licensed plumber check the system if this happens.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers Combat Backflow Issues
Do you have a lawn sprinkler system that you use to water grass and plants? A pressure vacuum breaker will likely be the backflow prevention device that connects to your water supply. Plumbers often install this device along an exterior wall or in an underground, recessed box, though some properties may have them inside the basement.
What’s the device’s primary purpose? It prevents dirty water found in sprinkler systems from entering your home’s main water supply.
Keep Your Water Supply Safe With Titanium Plumbing & Heating
If you notice any changes in your water supply and suspect backflow is to blame, reach out to Titanium Plumbing & Heating. We know which plumbing device prevents backflow best and can equip your water line with a reliable device for long-lasting results. You can also trust our team to perform flawless camera inspections (no digging) to check for underlying issues within your pipes and repair them right away.
Give us a call at (551) 310-2921 to request same-day service for backflow issues.
