What is backflow, and why do I need a backflow prevention device?
A backflow prevention devices is a mechanical device installed between the public water system and a plumbing system. Properly installed, tested and maintained, a backflow device can reliably prevent the backflow of water from contaminating the public water system. Backflow occurs when water, instead of moving forward in the intended direction, starts flowing backwards into the public water system. The two most common types of backflow are back pressure and back siphoning, which are the result of positive or negative pressures, respectively. Back pressure could occur if a pump or other device is used to force water or chemicals into a plumbing system, and thereby contaminating the public water system by overcoming the distribution systems pressure. Back siphoning occurs when there is a drop in the distribution system pressure, such as a water main break or even fire trucks using fire hydrants during a fire. This condition would allow possible contaminates from a plumbing system to be s
