Does Your Commercial Property Need a Backflow Test?

Andrew Kyle • Mar 27, 2017

Not many plumbers in our area are properly certified to perform  Rosenberg, TX commercial backflow testing , but we’re proud to say that we do offer this essential service. While not typically recommended for residential customers throughout the area, it is a requirement for commercial properties to have this service done when requested of them.

What Is Backflow Testing?

To understand what backflow testing is and what it does, it’s first important to remember what backflow is. This refers to either backsiphonage—created when the pressure lowers in one part of your pipes but not the other—or backpressure—where elevated pressure pushes contaminated water back into “clean” pipes.

Backflow testing can detect both types of backflow, and the problem can be resolved with a properly functioning backflow preventer device. This device prevents contamination such as fertilizer or pesticides sprayed onto lawns from entering an irrigation system.

Where Are the Biggest Contamination Risks?

Contamination can come from anywhere that water may be pooled around a faucet or fixture. This includes dirty pesticide-laden water around a sprinkler head, a sink hose in a pool of soapy water, or even a supply pipe leading into a system that might contain chemicals.

When Should You Have Backflow Testing Done?

It’s not enough to simply have a backflow prevention device installed and call it a day. Your backflow prevention assembly should be checked on an annual basis. If you already have a backflow prevention system in place and have not had it tested in that time, then you could have issues you aren’t even aware of.

You can also do a visual inspection of your backflow prevention device on a regular basis—check for any signs of visible leaks on the assembly, or any short of discharge. This can be caused by dirt and debris, negative pressure within the system, thermal expansion, or  water hammer.

No matter the type of leak, it can be a problem. Anything from a slow, dripping leak to sporadic and fluctuating discharge is a sign that your backflow prevention device is failing or has failed. Finally, a more serious—and hazardous—sign that your backflow system isn’t working as it should is the presence of cloudy or discolored water.

This is not inclusive of your drinking water. Check also the water from your hoses and sink water that you don’t drink—if anything about it looks strange then you should make sure that you do not drink or use your potable water until you can contact a professional who is certified in backflow testing and backflow prevention repair.

More about Backflow Preventers

If you don’t already have a backflow preventer, chances are that you do need one. Even if backflow dangers are low in your commercial space, it only takes a single incident to create a big mess, and a health hazard. We recommend having a backflow preventer installed that is tailored to your specific needs, which we are certified and trained to help you with.

Doug Turner Plumbing CO. offers services you can depend on— contact us today  for your residential or commercial plumbing services.

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