We all take it for granted: the water that comes out of our taps is clean and safe to drink. But what would happen if something went wrong with your plumbing and dirty or toxic water started flowing into your home? This is a real possibility due to backflow. That’s why it’s important to know about backflow and how to prevent it. This article will give you some tips on how to keep your water safe.
What Is Backflow?
Backflow is the unwanted flow of water or other liquids, solids, or gasses into your potable water supply system. While backflow can occur anywhere in a piping system, it most commonly happens at low points where water can collect and then be forced backward by an outside source of water pressure. When this happens, it can contaminate your drinking water with harmful chemicals or pollutants.
Ways to Prevent Backflow In Your Plumbing
Install Backflow Valves Where Necessary
One of the most important things you can do to prevent backflow in your plumbing is to install backflow valves where necessary. Backflow valves are designed to prevent backflow by creating a one-way barrier. They are installed in the pipeline between the clean water supply and the point of use, such as at the base of a sink faucet or the end of a hose bibb.
Backflow valves are often required by building codes and must be installed by a certified plumber. However, even if they are not required by law, they are still a good idea to prevent potential problems. So, if you are concerned about backflow in your plumbing system, talk to a qualified plumber about installing backflow valves. If you are unsure about where to install backflow valves in your home, you should search for a plumber near me in Illinois for consultation.
Regularly Test Your Backflow Valves
While backflow valves can be an effective way to prevent backflow, they are not 100% foolproof. That’s why it’s important to regularly test your backflow valves to ensure they are working properly. A certified professional should test most backflow valves at least once a year.
However, the testing frequency may depend on the type of valve and its location. For example, valves located near sources of contamination, such as chemical plants or sewage treatment facilities, may need to be tested more often. If you have never had your backflow valves tested, now is the time to search for a plumber near me in Illinois to do it.
Use Your Plumbing System for Intended Purpose Only
When you use your plumbing for anything other than its intended purpose, you risk damaging your system and causing backflow. For example, using a garden hose to fill a swimming pool is not recommended because the water in the hose can cause backflow into your home’s potable water supply if the pressure in the hose becomes too great. Another example is flushing objects down the toilet that are not meant to be flushed, such as condoms, sanitary napkins, or cigarettes. These objects can clog the sewer line and cause sewage backflow into your home.
So, it’s important to use your plumbing system only for its intended purpose to prevent backflow problems. While you may take precautions to use your plumbing for its intended purpose strictly, accidents may happen, leading to something not meant to go in the plumbing ending up there. If this occurs, take immediate action by searching for a plumber near me in Bloomington, IL, to assess and fix the backflow problem.
Keep Your Plumbing System Well Maintained
Another way to prevent backflow is to keep your plumbing system well maintained. This means regularly cleaning your drains and pipes to remove any buildup of sediment or debris. It’s also important to repair any leaks in your plumbing system as soon as possible. Leaks can create suction that can cause backflow. So, if you notice a leak in your plumbing, be sure to look for a plumber near me in Illinois right away to have it repaired. You should also have your plumbing system inspected periodically by a plumber near me in Illinois to ensure no potential backflow problems.
Stay Alert
Homeowners should stay alert for any changes or abnormalities indicating a backflow risk. While backflow can occur without any visible signs, there are some telltale signs that you should be aware of. They include discolored water from the taps or has an unusual taste or smell, reverse flushing toilets, and/or gurgling noises from your drains. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action immediately to minimize backflow damages.
You can do this by turning off your main water supply and then looking for a plumber near me in Bloomington, IL, to come and inspect your system. These simple steps will help ensure that your family has clean, safe water to drink. If you suspect that you have a backflow problem, don’t hesitate to search for a plumber near me in Illinois to test your water for potential contaminants.
Don’t Wait Until Backflow Messes Up Your Home
While backflow is a serious problem, it can be prevented with simple steps. By taking the proper precautions and being aware of the signs of backflow, you can protect your home from this potentially devastating problem. So, don’t wait until backflow messes up your home- take action now to prevent it. Search for a plumber near me in Illinois to help you implement the proper backflow prevention measures for your home.
We Are the Plumbers to Call
Covenant Plumbing is the company to call if you are looking for a plumber near me in Bloomington, IL. We have the experience and expertise to handle any plumbing repair or installation. We also offer backflow testing and preventative maintenance services to help keep your home’s water safe from contamination. So, if you need a plumber, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
