The Importance of Backflow Testing

Most municipal authorizes require owners of food establishments, condominiums, apartments and other commercial and public places to install backflow prevention devices at all cross points found in plumbing systems.

This is, however, not restricted to commercial buildings, owners of residential homes can have the devices installed as well. The type of backflow preventer required depends on the degree of hazard present in the building.

What is Backflow?

Normally, municipal water authorities pump water through major pipe to homes and businesses. This water flows under very high pressure.

Backflow is when the reverse happens – dirty water flows from businesses and homes through the clean water pipes.

This water is definitely contaminated with many hazardous materials such as chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers and feces among others.

Backflow mostly occurs at cross-connection between non-portable and portable water line in any industrial, commercial or residential system.

What is Backflow Testing?

Backflow can be prevented by installing a backflow prevention device. These units comprise of a series of check valves designed to avert “backward” flow of water into the clean water supply. They are particularly instrumental when there is an unusual pressure condition or pressure fluctuations in the water supply.

Backflow prevention devices can naturally wear out. Therefore, it is important to have them occasionally inspected, preferably once a year. This is to check whether they are in proper working condition.

Your Little Rock backflow testing professional will insert gages into the backflow prevention valves and check for high or low pressure. Backflow testing is not a do-it-yourself project.

High level of expertise is needed not only to conduct the test correctly, but also to interpret the results accurately. This also means that you have to choose the service provider wisely. Make sure that they have relevant skills and knowledge for the job and proper equipment as well.

Why is Backflow Testing Important?

Backflow testing is absolutely important for you and your family. It protects the integrity of clean water supply by ensuring that dirt and contaminants do not accidentally enter clean water distribution supply. Basically, backflow testing ensures that your Little Rock drinking water is safe and free of contaminants.

Failure to have the system tested can get you into serious civil liabilities. Imagine of an event where your clean water supply inadvertently gets contaminated and makes your guests sick. With no documents to prove that testing has been conducted, you would have no means of defending yourself.

Want more information on backflow testing in your Little Rock, AR area? Just call Arrow Plumbing at (501) 753-3838, and take the proper precautions.