Clean potable water is, undoubtedly, the most important resource to the human race. Without water, people cannot sustain themselves and will die in only a few days. The importance of protecting clean potable water is obvious by its vital role in our survival. Fortunately, here in Geelong, having to deal with contaminated water is a relatively rare occurrence. 

However, complacency is not warranted. The potential for contamination is still there and vigilance is required to safeguard our water supplies. In this article, we will talk about some of the common threats with backflow that could prove to be disastrous, and how to prevent them.

So, what is backflow and how does it occur?

Backflow is basically the process in which water that is being used for any purpose (such as toilets, showers, etc.) flows back into the water supply system. It is the pollution of a clean water line by an unwanted flow of water into it or rather water flowing in the reverse direction. Backflow occurs when there are inadequate or no backflow prevention devices in place. 

If they are there, they may malfunction and backflow damage, pollute or contaminate the water source. This results in water that is unsafe to consume. For instance, dirty dish water can mix with your clean water line through backflow contaminating your drinking water. Back siphonage and back pressure are the primary causes of backflow. 

What is back pressure?

Back pressure is the pressure exerted on a system by the flow of water. If a pump makes a low-powered vacuum to suck water out of a pot and the pump is removed, some vacuum will be lost and air will rush into the pot. If a water system works on the same principle of suction, the pressure in the pot will increase to the point where it will force water back into the supply line. Back pressure mostly occurs in various pressurized systems such as pumps, pipelines, irrigation systems, and sprinkler systems. In many cases, even a small back pressure is enough to push water backwards into the potable water supply lines.

What is back-siphonage?

Back siphonage occurs when a service line or potable water supply line rises above the level of its permanent fixture, as a result of back pressure. This usually occurs in underground piping due to insufficient slope or leakage in the supply piping system. A leaky valve in an underground pipe contributes to backsiphonage.

What devices are used to prevent backflow?

A backflow prevention device is a device that is usually installed on a water system to prevent it from being contaminated by water from a different source. The unit is designed to prevent the reversal of flow on a potable water supply system, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the potable water supply. Some of the backflow prevention devices include air gaps, check valves, manual valves, and vacuum breakers.

How do backflow prevention devices work?

Below you can find out how air gaps, check valves, and vacuum breakers work.

Air gaps 

Air gaps are used in sinks to prevent contaminants in the drain line from entering the potable water supply system. Air gaps are, literally, gaps of air between your water outlet and the flood level of your dishwasher. They eliminate contamination risks by separating the pipe that runs dirty water from the pipe that runs to the drain. An air gap device separates the two hoses meaning that they will never intersect and contamination will not occur. These devices are essential if you want to avoid dishwater flooding with contaminated water.

Check valves

Check valves are essential in preventing back siphonage. Check valves are usually found on water pipes such as running to the sink, the toilet, and the kitchen sink. They ensure water flows in one direction only. When pressure is higher on the input side than the output side, the valve stays open and the water flows normally. When the reverse happens, the valve shuts eliminating any risk of contaminated water being pulled into the potable water line.

Vacuum breakers

Atmosphere vacuum breakers prevent backflow in faucets, hoses, and other plumbing devices. These devices work by sensing a change in air pressure. When the system loses pressure, the vacuum breaker opens an air vent. When open the air vent then breaks the vacuum and your water supply line is sealed off. The process prevents back siphonage from happening when pressure is lost.

Backflow testing

Backflow testing is a technical test that is done to find the source of backflow in a potable water system. It involves injecting water into the supply pipe and checking for any signs of backflow. If backflows are detected, they will be permanently repaired. Backflow testing is required to be done at least yearly to ensure the water system is free from backflow.

What is the process of installing backflow prevention devices?

The process of installing backflow prevention devices is done by the installation and maintenance of air gaps, check valves, and vacuum breakers. These devices are installed either on each business’ water line or inside the premises depending on the risk of contamination.

The process involves first identifying the backflow hazard. The installation of backflow prevention devices is carried out by a professional plumber who has the right tools and skills to carry out the job in a proper manner. The plumber will first conduct an assessment of the water system. He or she will look at all the connections and parts of the system to identify any risk of back pressure or back-siphonage. The assessment is followed by testing, installation, and maintenance of the devices.

Geelong 24 Hour Plumbing For All Your Plumbing Solutions

We have a portfolio of satisfied customers and a team of highly skilled plumbers who have the necessary skills and expertise to carry out the project on time. We have the newest equipment to ensure a professional job is carried out. Contact us today for all your backflow prevention devices installation, testing, and maintenance needs. Our friendly customer care will be glad to take your call. For more information, please call 1300 368 866 or visit our website at https://www.geelong24hourplumbing.com.au/