Plumbing backflow can damage your property’s plumbing system and contaminate the drinking water in your home. Backflow can also cause water damage to your floors, walls, and personal belongings. Here is how plumbers prevent backflow and promote proper drainage:
Install Backflow Prevention Devices
Plumbers install atmospheric vacuum breakers that stop backflow during low pressure by introducing air into the pipes. These devices use a pressure differential and check valve mechanism to force water to flow in a single direction. Another device they may install is the spill-resistant pressure vacuum breaker (SPVB), which has a spring-loaded independent air inlet valve and an independent check valve spill-resistant pressure vacuum breaker. SPVBs are ideal for indoor and outdoor applications.
Plumbers can also install a double-check valve assembly. This device includes two single-check valves assembled within one body to provide failsafe backup when one of the check valves fails. Other backflow prevention devices include the reduced pressure zone and pressure vacuum breaker.
Conduct Routine Inspections
Plumbing professionals inspect the entire plumbing system for signs of damage or backflow. They examine caulking, water valves, faucets, pipes, and other elements to check for potential damage. These inspections also include looking at sewer lines, traps, and drains for signs of clogs or blockages that could cause backups or slow drainage.
The plumber checks previous inspection and maintenance reports to determine whether installations and repairs happened in accordance with legal requirements. They then identify any plumbing modifications and upgrades that may affect proper drainage and cause backflow. After an extensive review of the plumbing system, the plumber may recommend modifications, repairs, or additional inspections to solve the identified issues and prevent future backflow.
Complete Backflow Testing
A plumber will conduct various tests to determine whether a plumbing system has a backflow problem. After disconnecting the home’s water service, they will open all the valves on the specific backflow prevention device. The plumber then closes the valves and records any changes in water pressure. Another way to check for pressure changes is to use the hydrostatic testing method. This involves a plumber pouring a liquid into different drains in the home and pressurizing the liquid. They then monitor any changes in water flow to identify problems that could block proper drainage flow.
Another backflow diagnostic method is pneumatic testing, in which the plumber introduces compressed air into the system to identify failures or leaks. If the plumber suspects that backflow will happen due to weak pipes, they perform proof pressure testing. This type of testing involves using high pressure to determine the system’s maximum overpressurization limits. A plumber also checks if the device works properly or whether additional repairs are necessary. If the plumber detects any changes in pressure, they conclude that there could be weaknesses in the system that may cause backflow in the future.
Perform Maintenance Services
Plumbers perform regular maintenance tasks to prevent issues that could cause system backups later on. They check the structural integrity of various plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, pipes, and faucets. Even the smallest leaks require immediate attention because underlying problems can grow over time and cause pressure loss or backups. Plumbers also inspect drains, looking for slow drainage or clogs. Slow drains indicate that objects or deposits have accumulated in the drain pipes and are blocking the proper flow of waste. A professional plumber will also check whether gaskets or seals are worn out and allow water to escape.
The next step is to clean all fixtures regardless of whether they have clogs. A plumber uses various drain-clearing methods to remove the mineral deposits, mold, and grime that have accumulated inside the system. Another maintenance service is to check for corrosion within the pipes. Old pipes that have been carrying hard water for years are more likely to corrode and cause backflow problems.
Provide Education and Training
Simple household changes help prevent backups and protect residential plumbing systems. Plumbers provide tips and training for homeowners to educate them on what causes backflow and how it affects plumbing systems. They teach clients how to properly use water fixtures and inform them of what materials shouldn’t go down drains. The plumber can also teach homeowners how to recognize backups and what to do while they wait for a plumber to arrive.
Work With Reputable Plumbers
Plumbing backflow is a sign of problems with your plumbing system and requires immediate attention. Licensed plumbers will identify the cause of the backflow and fix it to prevent future issues. These professionals will also assess your home’s plumbing system to identify and correct other weaknesses. Contact a professional plumber today to learn more about their services and how they can resolve backflow problems.