Backflow Prevention Testing – Why Does Every Household Need It?
Backflow is without a doubt a potential issue for every household. That’s why it’s important to have a process of preventing for it to happen. But how do you know that your backflow preventer works? This is where backflow prevention testing comes in.
Backflow Prevention Device
This device is an assembly that prevents backflow. Some types of backflow preventers require testing by a backflow prevention device tester to make sure that they’re going to work as intended.
Backflow Prevention Device Tester
The device tester is someone who is certified to check backflow preventers.
How Can Backflow Be Prevented?
The simplest approach is to eliminate the cross-connection from the water distribution (plumbing) system. Where this is not feasible, a backflow preventer (BFP) should be installed. A BFP is a means to prevent backflow. An air gap, which either eliminates a cross-connection or provides a barrier to backflow, is the basic way of preventing backflow. An air gap is easily circumvented however isn’t always the most appropriate type of BFP to use. A mechanical backflow preventer, which provides a physical barrier to backflow, is the basic tool for preventing backflow. The principal kinds of mechanical backflow preventers are testable devices such as the reduced-pressure principle assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check valve assembly. Other types of BFPs available for secondary types of protection aren’t testable.
Backflow Prevention Devices Have To Be Tested Periodically
Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seals, springs and moving components that are caused to undergo fouling, wear or fatigue. These mechanical devices and air gaps can even be bypassed. Therefore, some backflow preventers need to be tested sporadically to confirm that they’re functioning properly and others such as an air gap require a visual check to safeguard that they are still in place. It is recommended that the testable backflow preventers should be tested by someone who has had proper training and has proper qualifications.
Inspection And Testing
Inspection and testing activities for mechanical backflow preventers are the following.
- Visual inspection of internal seats, springs, and moving components that are subject to fouling, wear or fatigue.
- Visual inspection to confirm they’re still in place and haven’t been bypassed intentionally or unintentionally.
- Testing to make certain they’re functioning properly.
We strongly recommend that a qualified professional like Shaul’s Plumbing and Heating Ltd test backflow preventers. Contact us at 778-397-4850 for more information, or schedule an appointment here.
