How to Prevent Backflow in Pipes

Backflow in pipes can cause serious issues, but you can avoid costly damages with the right prevention measures. If you’re looking for ways to prevent backflow, we can help. Our team offers a variety of backflow prevention services to help you prevent water contamination. 

Learn three different ways to prevent backflow in pipes and get the answer to an important frequently asked question about backflow prevention:

• Install Check Valves
• Install a Backflow Preventer
• Add an Air Gap
• Backflow Prevention FAQ

1. Install Check Valves

Check valves are key devices for preventing backflow. They act as a gate, allowing water to flow in only one direction. They prevent wastewater from contaminating your water supply. When properly installed at critical points in the plumbing system, check valves effectively prevent backflow incidents. It is important to maintain check valves through regular inspections and cleanings to ensure optimal functionality. 

2. Install a Backflow Preventer

Backflow preventers are specialized devices designed to protect your whole building from backflow. Different types of backflow preventers, including pressure vacuum breakers, reduced pressure zone devices, and double-check valves, cater to various applications. 

Choosing the right type of backflow preventer depends on factors such as hazard level and potential backflow volume. Backflow preventers should be installed and regularly tested by certified professionals.

3. Add an Air Gap

An air gap is a non-mechanical pressure regulation method that helps prevent backflow. It’s a small vertical space between your water supply and the flood level of a plumbing fixture. You’ve probably seen these near kitchen sinks, where a small cap covers the air gap hardware. 

This backflow prevention method uses physics to stop dirty water from contaminating your sinks, tubs, dishwashers, and other fixtures. It creates a positive force in the water line, making it nearly impossible for backflow to occur. These are easy to install and extremely effective, too. The only drawback to an air gap is that you need one for each fixture. By following these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of backflow contamination.

Backflow Prevention FAQ

What practices can help prevent backflow in pipes?

Backflow is typically caused by a sudden pressure change in your plumbing system. So, the best way to prevent backflow, aside from installing a backflow preventer or an air gap, is to avoid anything that would cause a pressure change.

One of the biggest causes of pressure changes is a major clog. A clogged sewer line can quickly lead to backflow throughout your entire home. Luckily, preventing these clogs is fairly straightforward. Just avoid putting the wrong items down your drain. 

Drains are designed for liquids and liquids only. Of course, there are times when solids are bound to make their way into your drain. In cases like these, grind any solids using your garbage disposal. Additionally, avoid flushing any wet wipes, as these tend to gum up a plumbing system. 

Call Mr. Rooter for Professional Backflow Prevention Services

If you need an air gap or a backflow preventer installed, you can turn to Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our experienced local plumbers are trained on local backflow prevention requirements for homes and businesses. Trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing for backflow preventer installation, repair, and testing.

Call us today to schedule your backflow prevention service. Click the button below and enter your ZIP code to find a nearby service location.