Backflow is a common plumbing problem that homeowners have to deal with. But what is backflow and how does it happen? Should you be worried that it can happen to you? Don’t worry, Swick Home Services is here to answer all of your backflow related questions and provide you with the quality solutions you need in your Marquette home.
Backflow is a plumbing emergency. Get 24-hour support and service with our emergency solutions today!
What Is Backflow and What Causes It?
In simple terms, backflow is the unwanted reversal of the flow of water. When this happens, your water supply can become contaminated with pollutants such as human waste, chemicals, chlorine, and other health-threatening substances.
There are two main causes of backflow:
- Back pressure is what happens when the system pressure in the pipes has been increased higher than the pressure coming out of the pipes. Sources of back pressure may be power washing equipment, boilers, and heat exchanging equipment.
- Back siphonage is what happens when the pressure in a tank is lower than the water system’s pressure. This pulls contaminated water into the system.
How Backflow Preventers Work
Backflow preventers are devices that are used to ensure that water flows in one direction but never in the opposite direction. The device is installed wherever your water main is routed into your home. The backflow valve allows the flow of water through one way and closes when there is pressure coming through from the opposite direction. When water is pulled from your main water line, such as when you turn on the faucet, the water is siphoned through a branch line. Without a backflow preventer in place, your water will draw whatever toxins it sucked in, back into your water supply.
Located inside the backflow valve there is a little flap that is normally open to allow water to exit your home. There are also small floaters on both sides of the flap that permits it to open and close. If water or sewage waste begins to backflow into your home, the floaters will trigger the flap to close to prevent the water from coming into your home. When it stops flowing towards your home, it will retreat back to the open position, allowing water to continue flowing out of your home.
Keep your pipes free and clear of blockages by scheduling ongoing drain cleaning services for your home.
The Importance of Annual Inspection
Backflow is not something to take lightly. Backflow-contaminated water can cause serious health problems. That’s why it’s so important to have your backflow device inspected and tested annually.
The knowledgeable experts here at Swick Home Services provide quality backflow prevention device inspection and repair. We help ensure that your water is safe to consume and enjoy.
