Backflow testing is vital for every home. These regulations ensure that you and your family are protected against harmful contaminants that could impact your health and safety. All homes in Philadelphia, PA must use city-approved backflow equipment and have it installed by a certified specialist. All new equipment also must be tested before use to make sure it is operating correctly. At City Plumbing, our goal is to make the entire process simple. Whether you need to inspect your old backflow preventer or are looking to install one for the first time, our plumbing contractors can help. We have three licensed full time technicians on staff for backflow so you can rest assured knowing you'll receive top quality workmanship.
Backflow is considered a plumbing emergency. Get immediate assistance 24/7 from our emergency plumbing pros today!
Why Is Backflow a Concern?
Backflow is the reverse flow of water in a plumbing system where the clean water input comes in contact with the output drain lines. When this happens, freshwater can mix with the waste liquid that is running through the drain line to the sewer systems.
Backflow can cause a number of concerns. The corrosion of piping systems, leaks, and possibly floods within the home can occur. More importantly, though, backflow is responsible for some serious health issues when polluted and dirty water mixes in with the fresh drinking water. Health risks from waterborne illnesses include diarrheal diseases, Guinea worm disease, typhoid, and dysentery.
To control the possible occurrence of water contamination, the water and health governing boards within each city and state have regulations in place for both residential and commercial properties.
What Causes Backflow?
Backflow occurs when the water reverses its direction inside the piping system. In most cases, this requires a serious amount of backpressure or damage to your main water line. Some of the more common causes of backflow include:
- Burst or frozen pipes
- Damage to the water main
- Excess pressure caused by a clog
- An open fire hydrant
- Construction damage to your main water line
- Faulty backflow preventer
- Sewer line issues
In many cases, backflow is an unexpected issue that is hard to plan for, which is why having a preventer in place is key. A backflow prevention device works similarly to a radiator cap in a car. When pressure levels are normal in your system, the valve is held open, allowing water to flow through normally. The moment the pressure drops, the valve shuts closed, preventing water from flowing back into your home.
An easy way to prevent backflow stemming from a burst pipe is with routine drain cleaning. Let our technicians ensure your plumbing pressure is always up to par!
The Testing Process
All homes in the Philadelphia County area have to be inspected annually by a certified backflow technician, and the results need to be submitted to the Industrial Waste and Backflow Compliance Board. The test itself focuses on the backflow assembly and all other prevention devices. The process itself is fairly simple:
- 1) First, the water will be shut off to the property.
- 2) Second, the test cocks are all numbered and bled of debris.
- 3) Third, all of the adapters are assembled.
- 4) Fourth, test kit hoses are attached to the valves so they can read the flow direction.
- 5) Fifth, the test is determined if water leaves the relief valve. If the water does leave, the first valve will need to be cleaned again.
- 6) Sixth, additional tests are performed to ensure all machinery is working properly.
Once the inspection has been completed, you will be given the results and the test outcome will be submitted. While it may sound complicated, backflow testing is essential for any homeowner. At City Plumbing, we are the most qualified backflow plumbing service company around. Our staff is EPA, ASSE, and Lead Certified. We have three licensed full time technicians on staff for backflow and can ensure that your home has a dependable and efficient backflow system in place.