Backflow Services in Philadelphia

Backflow services are required to ensure the safety and cleanliness of a city’s water supply. Backflow is the flow reversal of water, which infects the drinking water supply with harmful chemicals, poisons, or bacteria. Backflow can result from many causes such as water pressure changes or cross-connections between the potable water supply and non-potable systems. Backflow services in Philadelphia are used to prevent these incidents, and therefore, the water is safe to drink and use.

Why Backflow Prevention is Important

Backflow prevention is important as part of protecting public health and the environment. The biggest aim is ensuring that clean sources of water do not become compromised by dirty water. Contaminants in irrigation systems, manufacturing equipment, and even household pipes can cause massive health hazards when allowed to join drinking water. A backflow prevention device keeps these contaminants out of the water supply through devices such as backflow preventers or check valves. They must be installed and tested from time to time so that they can function effectively.

Backflow Prevention Devices

There are various types of backflow prevention devices applied in Philadelphia to safeguard the water system. Among the most widely used devices are the double check valve assembly, reduced pressure zone device, and pressure vacuum breaker. These devices function differently based on the level of protection that is required and the particular plumbing application. For instance, the reduced pressure zone device is used in an effort to deal with high-hazard applications where water pressure can vary greatly, providing more backflow protection.

The Importance of Regular Testing and Maintenance

Backflow prevention devices need to be tested once a year by certified technicians to guarantee proper function. Testing allows for potential problems to be discovered before they cause contamination. Regular maintenance is also important to maintain these systems in an optimal condition of working order. When left unattended, even the best backflow prevention systems eventually fail, causing serious water quality problems.