BLOG Understanding Backflow Prevention: Protecting Your Water Supply Jun 21, 2025

Understanding backflow prevention is an essential aspect of maintaining a safe and clean water supply in your home or business. At A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing, we believe that informing our customers about backflow prevention helps them make educated decisions about their plumbing needs. Let's dive into the details of what backflow is, why it's a concern, and how backflow prevention can protect your water supply.

Backflow occurs when water flows in the reverse direction, contrary to the intended path from your local water supply into your residence or commercial property. This can lead to contaminants, such as chemicals or bacteria, entering your clean water supply, posing significant health hazards. Common causes of backflow include pressure fluctuations in the municipal water supply and cross-connections in your plumbing system, where potable and non-potable water sources mix.

Preventing backflow is crucial for safeguarding water quality and ensuring public health. Effective backflow prevention requires devices specifically designed to prevent reverse flow. These include air gap devices and mechanical backflow preventers like pressure vacuum breakers, double check valve assemblies, and reduced pressure zone devices.

Installing an air gap is a simple yet effective solution. It involves creating a physical separation between the water supply outlet and the potential source of contamination, ensuring that even if backflow occurs, contaminants cannot travel up the pipes. This option is cost-effective and widely used in various household and commercial settings.

For more complex plumbing systems, mechanical backflow preventers are often necessary. A pressure vacuum breaker, for instance, is installed upstream from all outlets in your system and prevents contamination through a combination of check valves and atmospheric vents. Another option is the double check valve assembly, which comprises two check valves in series, providing redundancy in protection, ensuring that backflow is effectively contained.

Reduced pressure zone devices are considered the most reliable form of backflow prevention and are typically used in high-risk scenarios where the threat of contamination is exceptionally high. This device features two independent check valves and a pressure relief valve located between them, thereby immediately discharging any contaminants that might threaten the water supply.

Regular maintenance and testing of backflow prevention devices are vital to ensuring their effectiveness. As a best practice, these devices should be inspected annually by licensed professionals to verify that they’re operating correctly and meet local plumbing codes. At A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing, our skilled technicians provide comprehensive backflow testing and certification, ensuring peace of mind that your water supply remains protected.

In summary, understanding and implementing backflow prevention is vital for anyone interested in maintaining the integrity of their water supply. Whether you are a homeowner or operate a business, being proactive about backflow prevention can save you from costly repairs and protect your health. From simple yet effective air gaps to advanced mechanical devices, there are solutions suited to various needs and budgets. Reach out to A. Doleno Sewers & Plumbing for expert advice and services tailored to your specific plumbing challenges.

By taking the necessary steps towards backflow prevention today, you ensure a safe and clean water supply for tomorrow. Let us help you navigate the complexities of plumbing protection and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your water is secure.