What is the Definition of
Backflow:
(In terms we can all understand)
Backflow is the undesirable reversal
(backwards) of the flow of potable
water or mixtures of potable water
with other undesirable substances
such as fertilizers, weed killers,
and pet waste.
Backflow:
(In terms we can all understand)
Backflow is the undesirable reversal
(backwards) of the flow of potable
water or mixtures of potable water
with other undesirable substances
such as fertilizers, weed killers,
and pet waste.
"Sometimes during a sprinkler system
initial installation, the sprinkler head
is installed below the ground level.
Water which may have been in
contact with fertilizers and weed
killers can then be backsiphoned
through a leaky valve into the
potable water supply (drinking
water)."
initial installation, the sprinkler head
is installed below the ground level.
Water which may have been in
contact with fertilizers and weed
killers can then be backsiphoned
through a leaky valve into the
potable water supply (drinking
water)."
| cited from Febco Backflow Prevention, prevention device manufacturer |
Backflow Preventers
"Backflow preventers are saving lives across the United States. Sound
dramatic? Not really when you think about the potential danger of
consuming water not suitable for drinking. Many states now require the
installation of a backflow preventer on every sprinkler irrigation system.
A properly installed backflow preventer protects a home's pure drinking
water supply by stopping contaminated water from mixing with the
drinking water. Understanding what backflow is, how it occurs and how to
stop potentially dangerous backflow situations will help to avoid problems
in your drinking water.
What is a backflow and how does it occur?
"When non potable water or other substances flow through a
cross-connection into the piping of a public water system or consumer's
potable water system, it is called backflow. Backflow can be caused by a
downstream pressure that is greater than the supply pressure, or by
negative pressure (a vacuum). Increases in downstream pressure can
be created by pumps, temperature increases in boilers, etc. Reductions
in potable water supply pressure occur whenever the amount of water
being used exceeds the amount of water being supplied, such as during
water line flushing, firefighting, or breaks in water mains. Backsiphonage
(a vacuum) can occur when there is a stoppage of water supply due to
nearby fire fighting, a break in a water main, etc.
"How can I stop potentially dangerous backflow situations, or avoid them
all together?
"Irrigation systems make watering lawns and gardens easier and save
time, BUT, water that may be contaminated by weed killers and/or
fertilizers can be backsiphoned (backflow) into the home's drinking water.
Irrigation systems not protected by approved backflow prevention
assemblies could endanger the health of a household, neighborhood, or
community. Steps can be taken to prevent this dangerous situation.
"First, ensure that a proper backflow preventer is installed and
maintained. A backflow preventer is a mechanism to prevent backflow,
which provides a physical barrier to backflow. The principal types of
mechanical backflow preventer are the reduced-pressure principle
assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check
valve assembly. A secondary type of mechanical backflow preventer is
the residential dual check valve.
"All irrigation systems, new or existing ... Should be equipped with an
approved backflow prevention assembly. Only properly installed,
state-approved backflow prevention assemblies meet the plumbing code
and provide health protection for family and neighbors."
********************************************************************************************
How frequently should my backflow be tested?
Manufacturers advise backflow prevention devices should be tested at
time of initial installation or time of maintenance, and at least annually
thereafter to insure the devices are operating correctly.
Can anyone test these devices?
No. Only a qualified and licensed Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester
is recognized to perform this test / certification.
To be sure you're hiring a qualified
backflow professional, verify their
license number with the
Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality.
Click on the above link and type in
the first initial and last name of the
person performing the work on your
system.
If you're inquiring from another state,
please check with the applicable
licensing authority for your area.
backflow professional, verify their
license number with the
Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality.
Click on the above link and type in
the first initial and last name of the
person performing the work on your
system.
If you're inquiring from another state,
please check with the applicable
licensing authority for your area.
| BE SURE TO HIRE A LICENSED BACKFLOW PROFESSIONAL |
The following information is cited from www.johndeerelandscapes.com
Effective January 1, 2009, the
Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
states " Water contained within
the piping of an irrigation system
is deemed to be non-potable. "
2010 Janon, Inc. all rights reserved. nowaterhogs.com is a registered trademark of Janon, Inc.
eCO IRRIGATION SERVICES and Adaptive Solutions are divisions of Janon, Inc.
eCO IRRIGATION SERVICES and Adaptive Solutions are divisions of Janon, Inc.
 |  |  |  |  |  |