The water in your Shreveport, LA home should flow in one direction through your plumbing system. This is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe supply of water for cooking, cleaning and bathing. When water changes direction, this is called backflow, which can impact the taste of your water, how it looks and how safe it is. Some homes are at greater risk of backflow and can benefit from the installation of a backflow prevention device.
The Causes of Backflow
To understand why backflow preventers are necessary, it’s important to know why this problem occurs. Backflow typically occurs because of backpressure or back siphonage. When backpressure occurs, the pressure in your plumbing system is greater than the pressure that is in your clean water supply. This will cause a reversal in the flow of water.
Back siphonage takes place because of a drop in water pressure that occurs suddenly. A vacuum effect is created, which pulls contaminated water into the clean water supply.
Certain residential homes are at greater risk of experiencing backflow. This includes homes that have an outdoor sprinkler system or fire sprinkler system. Homes with swimming pools and hot tubs are also at risk.
There are factors outside the home that can also cause backflow. This includes the use of a fire hydrant or when a water main break occurs in the immediate area.
How Backflow Preventers Work
A backflow preventer blocks the reverse flow of water in your pipes, acting as a safeguard against contaminated water. Not only does this protect your clean water supply, but it also protects the integrity of your pipes and plumbing system. How a backflow preventer works depends on the type of equipment you have.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker
This unit introduces air into your pipes, breaking the vacuum effect that typically occurs when backflow is present. An atmospheric vacuum breaker is often used in outdoor irrigation systems.
Double Check Valve Assembly
Two separate spring-loaded check valves prevent backpressure and back siphonage in a double check valve assembly. When pressure drops at a point that is below the upstream pressure, the first valve will close to prevent the reversal of water flow. The second valve functions as a backup in case the first valve isn’t effective. This setup is ideal when the minimal risk of backflow is present.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker
A single spring-loaded check valve will promote the flow of water in a single direction. The valve remains open when it detects that pressure is at a normal level. When a drop in pressure is detected, an air inlet valve opens. Air will enter the plumbing system and interrupt the vacuum effect that has the potential to contaminate the clean water supply. This is another backflow preventer that is commonly used when a minimal risk of backflow is present. It’s not ideal for high levels of backflow pressure.
Reduced Pressure Zone Device
A hazardous risk of backflow requires the use of a reduced pressure zone device. Two spring-loaded check valves work at the same time to promote water flowing in a single direction. There is a relief valve that is in between the check valves. This adds another layer of protection in case the check valves fail. This is an essential tool when there is a risk of contamination from chemicals and microorganisms.
The Role of Backflow Preventers
Aside from protecting the quality of your water to avoid health concerns, backflow preventers have other benefits. Some municipalities require backflow preventers to be installed in certain residential areas that are at risk. You can also use a backflow preventer to achieve peace of mind knowing that the water coming from your faucets and fixtures is safe.
This equipment can also protect the integrity and safety of your plumbing system. When backflow occurs frequently, this can cause corrosion on the interior of your pipes, especially at connecting points. Corrosion can lead to leaks in your plumbing system. This can result in water damage, which can be very expensive to repair. Water damage can also lead to mold growth, which is dangerous to your health and can cause headaches, fatigue, brain fog, and allergies. Over time, backflow can lead to the need for more frequent plumbing repairs. This can become costly as time goes on.
Preventing backflow in your home can also protect the safety of your neighbor’s water supply and the environment. If waste and chemicals contaminate your local water table, this can result in property damage, lower crop yield, an increased flooding risk and health problems. Backflow preventers also reduce liability risks.
Spotting Backflow in Your Home
It’s important to know the signs of backflow so you can take immediate action if something is wrong.
Water Pressure
Pay attention to a sudden drop in water pressure. This can not only indicate backflow, but it also creates the potential for backflow to occur.
Color and Taste
Water should be clear and free of sediment or discoloration. Water that is brown, pink or yellow is likely contaminated.
You shouldn’t taste anything out of the ordinary in your water. A sulfur-like taste is a common indication of backflow. You should stop using your water and contact a professional for prompt assistance if you notice any water quality issues. Continuing to consume contaminated water can lead to health problems like cholera and E. coli infections.
Frequent Repair Needs
Backflow can cause the same plumbing problems to occur frequently. Chronic plumbing leaks are also a sign of backflow.
Plumbing Sounds
If you notice gurgling sounds coming from your drains, there may be an abnormal level of pressure or air in your pipes caused by backflow. This gurgling may occur with or without slow drainage.
Professional Assistance
To detect backflow, professionals check water pressure levels to catch any issues that can raise the risk of backflow. The most common place to check is the main water line coming into your home.
Once backflow preventers are installed, it’s important to have these devices routinely inspected on an annual basis. By simulating different levels of pressure in your pipes, it can be determined if backflow is being stopped.
There may be local codes that dictate what kind of backflow preventers can be used in your home and how they are to be installed. It’s important to have a knowledgeable professional assist with this process to ensure you comply. This can prevent you from facing fines or experiencing issues if you try to sell your home.
If you notice any signs of your backflow preventers malfunctioning, reach out for assistance right away. This includes noisy operation, water leaking from the area where the preventer is located and an interruption in the flow of water. Most backflow preventers last between 15 and 25 years when they receive routine maintenance.
You can learn more about the role of backflow preventers in your home with the assistance of the team here at Bobby L. Greene Plumbing, Heating And Cooling. It’s important to determine your risk of backflow and figure out the best option for prevention. Our staff can also help with the routine inspection, maintenance and repairs of your backflow prevention devices.
Contact Bobby L. Greene Plumbing, Heating And Cooling to schedule an appointment in Shreveport today for plumbing services.
