A backflow check valve is a device which directly affects the well-being of anyone living in any city in America, and yet few people know what it is.

Let’s find out, shall we?  And if you have questions about a backflow check valve installation after reading this article, give us a call at (817) 996-2000. We are City Backflow Testing, and we know backflow check valves.

What is a backflow check valve?

A backflow check valve is a back flow preventer used to prevent backflow.  A specialized backflow preventer valve may be installed at strategic locations in the plumbing system wherever there is a risk of contaminated fluids entering the water supply pipes. These areas are called cross connections in your plumbing system. These valves are used where there is not sufficient vertical clearance or physical space to install an air gap, or when pressurized operation or other factors rule out use of an air gap. Because these valves use moving parts, they are often required to be inspected or tested periodically.

What is backflow?

Water flows to you home by means of water pressure applied by the City Water Company. The water pressure “pushes” water through the pipes into your home and business, and it does so 24/7, 365 unless there is a sudden drop in that water pressure (think major fire and several fire hydrants being opened at the same time).  Should that happen, it is entirely possible for water to reverse direction, meaning contaminated water flowing back towards the city’s potable water supply.  Obviously this must be prevented, and thus we have backflow check valves at every cross connection.

What is a cross connection?

The main water pipe passes by your home or business.  From that main pipe, a smaller pipe carries water to your property.  When it reaches your property, it branches off, to the kitchen, to the bathroom, and to the utility room for the clothes washer.  Every spot when it branches off is called a cross connection, and it is at those spots where backflow check valves are needed. They are the areas at greatest risk should backflow occur.

No worries, it all works properly because of federal, state, and local regulations.

The Clean Water Act of the 1970s requires that backflow prevention devices, like the backflow check valve, be inspected annually by a certified and licensed backflow inspector.  It is a fairly easy procedure.  And if there are repairs or replacements necessary, only approved backflow parts, like Ames or FEBCO, are used for those repairs.

And when it all works properly, you can turn on your tap water and be confident no pollutants have entered the sanctity of your home.

About City Backflow Testing

We are City Backflow Testing, serving the Greater Fort Worth area.  We are a trusted name in backflow prevention, licensed and certified for   backflow inspections, installations, and repairs in most cities in the DFW Megaplex.  Give us a call at (817) 996-2000 if you have questions about backflow, or you want to schedule an appointment for backflow testing, repair, or installation.  We are standing by to help.