Are You Letting Your Water Flow Go with the Backflow? Importance of Backflow Prevention

We all need water to survive. From taking a shower to washing your dishes, this liquid is an essential part of our daily lives. We pay a lot of money for clean and safe water, and we expect it to flow without any issues, but what if the water you’re using isn’t that pure? What if the water that you're using has mixed with contaminated materials that can harm your health and well-being? That’s where backflow prevention comes in.

Backflow is the reverse flow of water from other sources that might mix with your home’s water. This can happen due to negative pressure in the water supply, broken pipes, and faulty or inefficient backflow prevention devices. A backflow prevention device ensures that your home’s water supply stays pure and prevents it from mixing with any contaminated water source.

This prevention device is essential in keeping your water safe from fertilizers, pesticides, and other toxic substances that can slip into the public water system. Backflow prevention also abides by bylaws and regulations imposed by the government. If you don’t have one installed, you risk facing hefty fines or even water shut-offs.

As a skilled tradesperson, and really I mean if you're a plumber of any kind, it is your responsibility to ensure that the system you are working on has an efficient backflow prevention device. All major water-consuming systems such as fire sprinkler systems, irrigation systems, and commercial boilers must have one to avoid contamination. You must also regularly maintain the device to avoid malfunction and ensure its maximum potential.

Prevention of backflow is not an individual task, but a community effort. The entire neighborhood must ensure that their backflow prevention devices are working efficiently and that they are getting the required annual testing; this includes homes and commercial premises.

As a student entering the skilled trades industry, you will learn about various backflow prevention techniques such as double-check valve assemblies, backflow preventer assemblies, and air gaps. You will be responsible for ensuring that these methods are being utilized effectively in every project you handle. Here's an educational video I made, specifically on backflow prevention.

Remember that backflow prevention is a crucial aspect of any plumbing system. Implementation of these critical components in every system will ensure that the water we consume remains clean and pure. It does not only comply with local and government regulations, but it also protects the health of the community. As tradespeople, let us keep our water safe by ensuring we use efficient and well-maintained backflow prevention devices. Prevention is better than cure.