A backflow valve is a prime example of a backflow preventer, the purpose of which is to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into a clean water supply. The backflow assembly is generally installed at exit points in a basement or a sewer pipe. The valve closes immediately when sewage flows or when the pressure in a water pipe reduces suddenly, thus preventing backflow from occurring. Backflow can occur because of a sudden drop in water pressure caused by any number of factors outside the home.
Backflow valves also minimize the risk of flooding during heavy rains, in effect blocking drain pipes and keeping the flow of rain water from flowing into a home. They generally work in conjunction with other backflow preventers, effectively constructing a barrier that prevents contaminated water from reversing direction.
Is this something that should concern the average homeowner? All you need to do is turn on the news and watch stories of torrential rains that have occurred in parts of the nation this year. Without proper backflow valves and other backflow preventers, it is a real possibility that raw sewage can flow into your basement, pouring out of toilets, shower stalls and sinks. As one might expect, these backflows not only cause physical damage but also pose a significant health hazard. Of equal concern is that the contaminated water in the home will flow back into the city’s water supply.
Because of the significant pubic risk, homeowners are required to have their backflow preventers tested, inspected and maintained yearly. The risk is just too big for this not to happen. The inspection, testing and maintenance of your backflow devices must be conducted by licensed backflow inspectors. In Texas, testers must be certified by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and show proof of that certification. A license must also be obtained for the city where the backflow testing is being conducted.
City Backflow Testing is licensed by the state of Texas in several areas including backflow prevention assembly tester, fireline certificate of registered underground contractors, fire sprinkler RME underground license, licensed irrigator, certified water auditor and training provider. All backflow services are done in compliance with the USC 10th Edition for cross connection control. As a leader in backflow testing, owner Frank Chaloupka brings his knowledge and expertise to every testing he conducts. For the best in backflow valves and other backflow preventers, call on City Backflow Testing.
