Your Richmond, VA home’s plumbing system should provide you with access to safe water. This water should flow through your plumbing in a single direction, in through the clean water lines and out through the drain lines, preventing the contamination of water used for cleaning, cooking, and showering. If a situation occurs and water reverses direction, this is referred to as backflow. Backflow not only results in unhealthy water but can also damage your pipes and appliances. You can take steps to spot backflow and prevent it from occurring.
Why Does Backflow Occur?
Common causes of backflow include a change in pressure or back siphonage. When this occurs, pressure in your plumbing system changes so that the pressure in your drain pipes is greater than the pressure of the water coming into your home. The direction of water reverses, contaminating your clean water. A change in water pressure may occur suddenly, creating a vacuum effect that pulls water in the opposite direction.
Backflow is more common than many homeowners realize. Your risk increases if you have a sprinkler system on your property, an indoor fire sprinkler system, a swimming pool, or a hot tub. Having a fire hydrant close to your property can also cause backflow if fire personnel must use high-pressure water to put out a fire nearby. A local water main break can also cause backflow.
Different Types of Backflow Prevention Devices
Backflow prevention devices block the reverse flow of water throughout your plumbing system. This protects your clean water supply and your pipes. Different types of preventers are available, including valves and air gaps, to create a separation between contaminated water and the flood level. We can help you determine where a device should be placed and what type to use.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers
An atmospheric vacuum breaker will bring air into your plumbing system to break the vacuum effect that occurs when there is backflow. This equipment is most used as part of your outdoor plumbing system when you have a sprinkler system or pool.
A Double Check Valve Assembly
You can prevent back siphonage and backpressure using a double check valve assembly. The valve closes automatically when it senses that pressure has dropped lower than the downstream pressure. This prevents the reversal of water. A second valve is essentially a backup if the first valve doesn’t work correctly. A double check valve assembly is relatively easy for us to install and requires minimal upkeep. It’s ideal for homes that have a low risk of backflow.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers
A pressure vacuum breaker works best in a home that may experience backflow but not at a very high level of pressure. A spring-loaded check valve will help direct water in a single direction. This valve will remain open as long as abnormal pressure levels aren’t discovered. When pressure changes, an inlet valve opens to allow air inside. This will interrupt the vacuum effect.
Air Gap Backflow Preventers
This non-mechanical device separates the water outlet and the overflow level. The air gap should be at least twice the size of the pipe’s diameter. There is no physical way that contaminated water can come into contact with your clean water supply when you use an air gap prevention device.
Reduced Pressure Zone Device
If you live in a residence with a high risk of backflow, a reduced pressure zone device is a beneficial investment. This setup has two spring-loaded check valves that work simultaneously to direct water in a single direction. A pressure relief valve is placed between the two check valves for additional protection against backflow. It’s recommended that you use a reduced pressure zone device if you are at a high risk of contamination from things like pathogens and chemicals.
Do Backflow Preventers Only Impact My Home?
While backflow prevention devices work quite well to prevent backflow in your own home, they can also benefit your neighbors. If a substantial backflow were to occur from your residence, it could cause problems in nearby homes as well. Not only does this device provide you with peace of mind for your safety, but it also provides peace of mind for those around you. You’ll benefit from a decreased liability risk when you invest in backflow prevention.
How Do I Protect My Plumbing System From Backflow?
Backflow prevention devices protect the water you use for consumption, bathing, and other purposes. However, they also protect the integrity of your plumbing system. Backflow can cause corrosion on the interior of your pipes. This damage can lead to leaks or burst pipes, which result in excessive water damage and could promote mold growth. Backflow damage can result in you having to schedule more frequent plumbing repairs over time.
How Do I Spot Backflow?
There are several signs that indicate backflow is occurring in your home. Reaching out to our team can allow you to deal with this issue promptly.
Changes in Water Pressure
Backflow may occur if you experience a sudden drop in water pressure. Pressure changes can cause backflow, so it’s a good idea to have us inspect for a problem.
Changes in Water Quality
Backflow can make your water look discolored or have visible sediment. It may taste like sulfur. Avoid using this contaminated water. Also, watch out for odd smells coming from your faucets or fixtures. Not only is contaminated water unpleasant to consume, but it can also cause health issues like E. coli infection.
Repeated Repair Needs
If you find yourself calling us for the same plumbing problem repeatedly, the quality of the repair may not be to blame. There may be backflow occurring that is causing damage to your plumbing system.
Gurgling Sounds
If you notice any gurgling noises coming from faucets or drains, there may be a pressure shift causing backflow. You may see a change in water pressure or drainage as well.
How Do Plumbers Check for Backflow?
We use specialized equipment like water pressure gauges and test cock adapters to look for backflow. Common areas to check include your main water line, water heater, sinks, and faucets.
You should have our team visit your home annually to check your backflow prevention devices once installed. We will simulate a change in pressure inside your plumbing system to see if these devices engage. These devices should be installed according to local code enforcement to ensure the safety of you and your family, as well as the people living in your community.
How Often Do Backflow Prevention Devices Need to Be Replaced?
The life expectancy of most backflow preventers is between 15 and 25 years. This time frame will usually be shorter if you don’t keep up with regular inspections and maintenance. Repairs may be needed in the meantime to address worn-out components.
Learn more about preventing backflow in your home with the help of Davis & Green. Testing for backflow is a good place to start. Our team can help you determine which backflow prevention devices are ideal for your home and property. We are a full-service plumbing company, offering various installations, drain maintenance, and repairs for all plumbing pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Contact Davis & Green for assistance in Richmond today.
