Don't Let Backflow Ruin the Holidays: Testing Tips for a Safe Season

Prevent Holiday Backflow and Plumbing Issues

Backflow is a plumbing problem that can lead to very serious issues. The last time a homeowner wants to deal with a backflow problem is during the holidays. It’s a time when water usage tends to be higher because of guests, more dishes, and other activities. In this guide, learn more about backflow, backflow testing, and keeping the home safe. 

The Hazards of Backflow

Backflow is the name for water flowing in the wrong direction in a home’s sewer line. Some homes have a backflow prevention device to prevent this, but even those can malfunction and fail. When backflow occurs, contaminants can get into the water supply. These are some common contaminants: 

• Waste
• Chemicals
• Fertilizers

While these items are meant to flow safely through a pipeline, they cross with clean water and cause contamination when backflow occurs. Contamination from any of these items could pose serious health risks and damage the home’s entire water supply. 

Different things might cause backflow to occur. It happens most when a higher volume of water is used, such as a water main break, open fire hydrant, or even a high-pressure water pump. 

Understanding Backflow Testing

Backflow testing is a process that checks the system's functionality and tests the backflow preventer. This process is primarily designed to perform a backflow test on any prevention device to block contaminants from entering the main water supply. 

The backflow testing process inspects the backflow prevention device, checking for leaks and pressure issues. A backflow tester may determine if there is an issue or any warning signs. It is recommended that backflow testing be performed annually, and ahead of the holiday season is always a great time for this. 

Backflow Testing Is So Important for Every Home

Whether a homeowner understands the value of backflow preventers, having these systems tested at least once a year is very important. Backflow devices are specially designed to prevent contamination. When they fail, it doesn’t just affect the immediate area. It can affect the home as well as overall clean water supplies. 

This is a matter of public health and safety as well as home health and safety, so don’t neglect backflow testing and safety. Instead, be informed and prepared and have those backflows tested to prevent issues like these from occurring. 

Backflow testing can help prevent water contamination and protect the public should something go wrong. It provides peace of mind for the home and any guests visiting during the holidays. Holidays are busy enough without suddenly being in the midst of a backflow issue when the house is full, and there are other things to do. 

Regular inspections and care allow homeowners to be compliant and prevent bigger issues. 

About A&W Plumbing and Heating Inc.

A&W Plumbing and Heating Inc. offers 24/7 emergency service from certified technicians. They care about their customers and ensure they get great care no matter what their needs are. Contact them for backflow testing services in Murphysboro, IL. 

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