Plumbing systems are designed to carry water in one direction only. Water flows through the pipes due to gravity or pressure. When this system gets disturbed, the water can go in the wrong direction. This is called backflow. It is common in residential and commercial plumbing, schools, and public areas. A backflow test checks for backflows in plumbing services. If there are any problems, the tests can help identify them so repairs can be done before major damage occurs.
What Is Backflow Testing?
Your plumbing system has backflow preventers to ensure that water flows in the right direction. In most houses, this is toward the wastewater treatment plant. The preventers are usually located at the meter, where the water is turned on, or at the main water shutoff valve. But, sometimes, even these protections fail. When breakdown happens, problems with your faucet, drip pans, meter, and plumbing services could occur.
A backflow test checks the validity of backflow preventers. The test is done by a professional plumber. If there are any problems, the professional will repair them before more problems can occur. The plumber needs to know exactly what is causing the backflow so they can take steps to fix it. They will also clean the plumbing system of any foreign substances.
How Is Backflow Testing Done?
The plumber must have a backflow kit. These kits contain the necessary components for the test, including a differential pressure gauge, hoses, needle valves, etc. The plumber will connect the equipment to the backflow preventer and monitor the pressure meter. The meter gives them a reading of the water pressure and the flow rate going into the preventer.
The plumber must have adequate knowledge of plumbing systems and what goes where. This allows them to conduct the tests correctly. They must also understand what the meter readings mean and know how to fix the issues that might be present. Their knowledge of residential or commercial plumbing helps them determine the best course of action.
Why It’s Important to Test Backflow Preventers
Backflows wreak havoc on your plumbing system, leaving you with many expensive repairs. If there is a problem in your sewer line, you might notice when things start overflowing or backing up. Backflow can cause untreated water to come from your toilets or into your sinks and bathtubs. This is annoying, and it can also cause damage to your plumbing system and fixtures. Backflow water can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. It can cause illness in people who drink contaminated water or those who come into contact with it. The test ensures that public health is protected from this type of contamination.
When to Schedule a Test
Schedule a test if your plumbing system has been recently installed or repaired. Backflow tests are also necessary if you have recently moved into an area with a new plumbing system. If you have experienced problems such as leaks or sewage backing up, you should schedule a backflow test. An annual test is also recommended to ensure everything works properly.
Backflow testing is quick, easy, and painless. The test requires little time and keeps your plumbing system in top condition. We are a fully licensed and insured plumbing company. At Select Plumbing, we provide backflow testing services to residents in Lincoln, NE, so contact us today to talk to one of our plumbing experts.
