Backflow takes places when water reverses its flow in anywhere in your plumbing systems. It’s a dangerous condition because it can allow drinking water to become contaminated and unusable.

Backflow preventers are mechanical devices installed in plumbing system to prevent water from reversing its flow. A properly installed, tested and maintained backflow preventer at your water service entrance can reliably help keep your water contaminant free.

The typical causes of backflow are a sudden drop in water pressure brought about by above-normal usage, firefighters using extreme quantities of water in your neighborhood, and a break in the water main.

Backflow also can originate inside your home through a “cross connection” where non-drinkable water (perhaps form your toilet or run-off from your shower) backs up into your drinking water supply, thus contaminating it, through a cross connection.

A backflow preventer, very simply, prevents contaminated water from entering your drinking water supply. It needs to be professionally installed by a licensed plumber and inspected once a year to ensure it continues to work properly for your family’s protection.

Is your home equipped with a backflow prevention valve? If not, or even if you’re not sure, contact Connor Plumbing today so we can to locate and test your valve for you. If you don’t already have one, we’ll give you a guaranteed upfront price to install a backflow preventer in your home, and then set up an annual maintenance schedule.