How Does Backflow Testing Protect Freshwater Resources?

What Is Backflow? 

Under normal circumstances, all of the water in a plumbing system's pipes should flow in one direction. The main reason is safety. While treatment chemicals render water safe from biological agents, they can lose their effectiveness over time. By keeping water flowing in one direction, it ensures that newly treated water is always flowing through pipes. 

When water flows in a direction opposite to the intended direction, a phenomenon called "backflow" occurs. For backflow to occur, there has to be a major pressure drop that causes water to siphon backward through the piping. This is why it has to be avoided at all costs. The suction the siphoning produces can cause the pipes to draw dangerous liquids and debris into pipes. Introducing untreated water into piping contaminates all of the water in the pipes. 

Luckily, backflow can be easily prevented by installing and certifying backflow prevention devices. Here is a quick guide to these devices to help people ensure they are doing their part to prevent the contamination of drinking water in their homes or businesses. 

Why Is Backflow Dangerous?

Contaminated water is one of the biggest public health threats throughout human history. When the modern plumbing grid is compromised, people can be exposed to serious pollutants. Some of the biggest contaminants in backflow situations are: 

• Raw sewage
• Groundwater
• Fertilizer or chemicals
• Biohazardous waste
• Toxic substances

While plumbing codes aim to eliminate the causes of backflow, unlicensed repairs and human error make these events possible. In nearly every case of backflow, people are sickened by exposure to pathogens or toxic chemicals.  

What Is Backflow Testing, and How Does It Protect People? 

Backflow is prevented by devices called "backflow preventers." In most cases, these devices are present in commercial settings where it is more likely that a backflow event will occur.

However, homeowners in certain settings may have backflow preventers or require the installation of vacuum breakers to prevent siphoning. 

Backflow preventers are ingenious devices that stop water flowing backward through piping when a siphon occurs. While these devices are reliable, their job requires them to be inspected and certified every year to ensure reliable service in case of a problem. By submitting to mandatory backflow testing and certification, owners are doing their part to ensure they and those around them are safe from contaminated water. 

Reasons To Invest in Backflow Testing 

While taxes and utility bills go to keep municipal plumbing infrastructure safe and widely available, everyone has a part to play in ensuring the water supply stays safe. The fact that water supplies are so reliable and widespread is a testament to the engineers and everyday people who work hard to protect freshwater resources. For owners, allowing professionals to inspect and test their backflow prevention devices can ensure: 

• Community health is protected
• Waterborne illnesses will never afflict their community
• Utility prices stay low
• People aren't exposed to dangerous chemicals

About E.R. Services

E.R. Services works with owners to protect freshwater resources. Their teams provide backflow testing and backflow preventer installation. Homeowners can expect personalized advice with every service call and upfront pricing before starting any plumbing project. Call today for plumbing service in Charlotte, NC. 

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