We all assume that our water supply is safe and drinkable. But contaminated drinking water is responsible for hundreds of deaths every year in this country. Rick Hedge, owner of The Plumber’s Plumber in Florida, explains here why backflow testing is important, and how it can help protect you and your family.
Water in our water supply systems is normally maintained at a specific pressure, one that allows us to have water flowing from our taps, showers, and toilets. Occasionally, however, there is a fault.
If a water pipe freezes, bursts or leaks, there is the chance that the pressure in the system can be reduced, and as a result, contaminated water from other sources can enter the system. This can be water from the ground or from other areas where water is stored.
To stop this from happening, as it can be dangerous, backflow prevention devices need to be in place. In fact, this is a regulatory requirement for all systems. These devices prevent drinking water from becoming contaminated. We have people who work with us who test backflow preventers. It is a requirement in our county to not only have a backflow preventer but to have it certified by a backflow preventer specialist.
Every sewer system has sewer backflow prevention devices to protect consumers from the hazards of ingesting contaminated water. Certain types are approved and must be used. It’s the law. But like car parts, they wear out over time, which is why it’s important to have them tested regularly. Certified backflow testing device experts can make sure that all your backflow devices are working and safe.
Wow! I've been a Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly tester for several years now, and I know what I'm doing, but your description of facts and the way that you explain *why* you need a backflow prevention assembly confused me, What is this article going to do for people that don't know backflow prevention?? You did get one fact clear though, - “Certified backflow testing device experts can make sure that all your backflow devices are working and safe.”
Mick
Mick – March 10, 2010 , 6:37 AM
Thank you, this is a very interesting article. I’m looking for high quality material to read about problems involving backflow. Your article certainly meets the description. I hope you continue writing such articles, I’ll try to visit here often
backflow – May 6, 2010 , 10:27 AM
Hello I`ve been doing testing of backflow devices in my city for about one year now. My city is small and just now catching on, every building being put up must have a backflow device but the other residents and businesses that are established do not require to have one but encourage to purchase and maintain one. every year the town is growing and I`m concern when will it be a law that all businesses and residents are required to have one. I work for the city and i`m not a plumber just a water meter reader but I like Backflow testing it feels good to help the prevention of contaminants in our water system.
Freddy – May 6, 2010 , 1:26 PM
I think Mick is just confused, as I understood the article and I do not have any plumbing background or experience.
E – April 15, 2011 , 7:45 AM