What is Backflow Preventer, and How Does it Work?

A backflow preventer is a plumbing device that prevents water from flowing reversely. Installing a backflow preventer will allow water to flow only in one way, averting the contamination of potable water.

The device works by regulating the pipe pressure and preventing the water from flowing in the opposite direction. Without a backflow preventer, the foul water flows backward. Instead of potable water flowing into your home or building, the wastewater goes back to the primary supply system, contaminating the municipal piping system or your private supply system. A backflow preventer device allows drinking water to run into your building’s piping system but prevents wastewater from flowing into the public water supply (the so-called cross-connection).

Where to Install a Backflow Preventer?

There are three locations where people typically install a backflow preventer device: inside a vault (underground), inside a building, and outside above the ground. Only one of these locations is an appropriate place for a backflow preventer. Let us see why.

1. Inside a Vault

Installing a backflow preventer inside an underground vault is an outdated method that is still in use nowadays, mainly because of aesthetic reasons. The problem with subterranean vaults is that they are underground, meaning greater chances of flooding. The sole purpose of backflow preventers is to prevent cross-connections (mixing drinking water with wastewater). Subterranean vaults contradict that purpose because they flood, causing cross-connections and contamination. Besides, inside vaults are considered confined spaces, posing health and safety risks (toxic gases, wild animals) for people repairing and maintaining them, including property owners or children.

2. Inside the Building

The other option is installing a backflow preventer inside a building. This method is problematic for two reasons: flooding and liability for the design engineer. First, installing backflow preventers inside a building poses grave flooding risks, especially at the end of the work day. The possible scenario involves stopping water demand at the end of the day, which causes water to evacuate into the relief valve. Because the check valve is not closing, the water flows into the building. Naturally, a large amount of water inside the building causes significant damage, resulting in the designer engineer’s liability.

3. Outside and Above the Ground

Installing a backflow preventer outside and above the ground proved to be the best practice. Unlike devices installed below terrain and inside the building (posing safety, health, and flood risks), backflow preventers above ground and outside are the best of two worlds. Installing backflow prevention devices outside and above the surface protects property, the environment, testing and maintenance workers, and building inhabitants. In addition, it shields designer engineers from unnecessary liability. Although some people avoid installing backflow prevention devices outside for aesthetic reasons, that is the best way to ensure they serve their sole purpose – preventing backflow and contamination.

The Most Common Materials For Backflow Enclosures

To protect the backflow devices themselves, put them in enclosures. When choosing the protection for your device, follow applicable manufacturing standards and regulations. The compartment must have an appropriate locking and drainage mechanism, temperature maintenance capacity, and a strong and rugged structure.

The most common materials for backflow preventer enclosures are metal cages, aluminum, and fiberglass. Many people also use brick and blocks to build protection for backflow devices.

Whatever material you choose, ensure it conforms to all applicable safety and health standards. An appropriate enclosure should satisfy draining and temperature standards, as well. Choosing the right size and color will help you meet your design demands. Depending on the size of the backflow preventer, the enclosure can vary. Some backflow preventers (such as N-type devices) have a smaller footprint, allowing you to install smaller compartments. Choosing the color that will blend into the environment can resolve your dilemmas regarding the design of the backflow preventer devices. The most common are green and tan.

Backflow Prevention Experts You Can Trust

At Backflows Only, we will take care of your backflow prevention installation needs with the utmost quality in equipment and customer service. Whether you need potable water, irrigation, or sprinkler backflow prevention device installed, you can trust Fort Lauderdale’s expert team of quality-focused technicians here at Backflows Only.

Whatever time of day it is, we will be there for you. Our licensed, insured, bonded, and certified team is here to help with Fort Lauderdale’s backflow prevention installation or emergency needs, along with our 24-hour service options. Regardless of where you are in South Florida, we can handle your backflow installation, repairs, and maintenance for residents and businesses. Our certified technicians are highly professional and work efficiently to complete your job. Our ranges of services are reliable and affordable. It is essential to keep an eye on your backflow system and ensure it runs smoothly continually. Your satisfaction will be our top priority. We are one of the best in the business.