BACKFLOW PREVENTERS KEEP DRINKING WATER SAFE

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Logo for National Backflow Prevention Day

 August 16 of every year is National Backflow Prevention Day. 

So, why does backflow prevention get its own special day? Because these not-so-attractive backflow prevention devices keep contamination from entering the drinking water. 

What is a Backflow Preventer?

Backflow preventer
Photo by Donna Kaluzniak
A backflow preventer is a device that is used to protect  drinking water systems from contaminants that could backflow into them.

They are a critical part of a utility's Cross-Connection Control Program.

Cross-connections occur whenever there is a physical connection between potable and non-potable water.

Changes in water pressure can create backflow from a business, industry or residence.

As an example, an industrial plant may use water to mix with chemicals.

Normally, the water distribution system is pressurized. But if pressure is lost, for instance due to a fire or large water break, the water in the industrial plant could flow backwards into the utility's distribution system. Or if there is higher pressure (such as tall buildings or pressurized equipment in an industry) non-potable water could be pushed into the drinking water system.

The backflow preventer keeps this from happening. 

Industrial and commercial facilities are required to have backflow prevention devices on their water service as well as on their fire lines. 

Backflow preventers must also be installed if a residential property has a private well, irrigation system (especially if using reclaimed water), or other potential cross-connections.

Types of Backflow Preventers

Different types of backflow preventers are available, and which type to use depends on the contamination risk. 

An industrial/chemical facility or wastewater treatment plant poses a higher risk to drinking water than a residential swimming pool.

Each utility's Cross-Connection Control Program will specify what type of backflow preventer is required for each home or business.

A graphic about the types of backflow preventers, how they work, and risk prevention.
Graphic produced with assistance of ChatGPT

Backflow Preventer Testing and Maintenance

Backflow preventers are mechanical devices and require regular inspection/testing and maintenance. 

Annual testing by a Florida certified tester is required for  reduced pressure (RP) backflow preventers. Most Florida counties require annual testing of other backflow preventers for commercial properties - and sometimes residential properties. If testing indicates a problem, the backflow preventer must be repaired or replaced. 

After testing, a tag with inspection/testing date is attached to the device.

The local utility may also conduct cross-connection control inspections to ensure testing has been completed. 

Geek Out

Want to learn more about backflow preventers? You may even be interested in becoming a backflow prevention tester or mechanic.

The University of Florida Training, Research and Education for Environmental Operations (TREEO) Center has a Backflow Prevention Program that includes:
  • Backflow Prevention Tester
  • Backflow Prevention Tester Recertification
  • Backflow Repair and Maintenance
  • An online course - Introduction to Backflow Prevention
The University of Southern California has the Manual of Cross Connection Control and an Instructional Video on Field Testing Backflow Preventers.

 

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