Everything homeowners and businesses ask about backflow, testing, and staying compliant. Still stuck? Reach out. I'm glad to help.
Given the serious health hazards backflow can cause (Category 5 backflow may contain human waste), New York began requiring building owners to install backflow prevention devices in 1992 under NYS Sanitary Code 5-1.31. Because the device's valve is open most of the time, dirt and debris can get in and cause a malfunction when it's needed most. Your responsibility is to have it inspected and tested annually and keep it in good working order.
There are two types: back-pressure and back-siphonage backflow. It can occur when changes in water pressure create a suction effect, causing water to reverse direction and flow back into the public supply. Without barriers to prevent this, water from private plumbing, including plants, pools, and medical facilities, could flow into the public system and impact water quality.
It depends. There are five categories that rank the degree of hazard, each a higher health risk. Category 1 is normal drinking water and poses no risk; Category 5 may contain human waste and is a serious risk. Installing a backflow preventer and keeping it in good condition keeps your water as safe as possible.
A cross-connection is a link between a potable water system and a non-potable one. In our case, Nassau County's public water lines and customers' private plumbing systems. Backflow can occur through these cross-connections.
Residential customers are only required to install one if the home has an in-ground irrigation system or pool. It's the customer's responsibility to notify us if either is installed. Requirements vary for commercial customers based on water use and degree of hazard.
If it fails, I'm trained to identify the failed component. It's crucial to address the failure immediately to avoid contamination. The device can then be repaired or replaced by the tester or a licensed plumber.
I begin by inspecting the device for any alterations, then shut the water down for several minutes (yes, your water is briefly interrupted). I read system pressure by attaching the testing gauge to the gate and relief valves, close the downstream valve, and watch for changes in the pressure gauge while checking for leaks and other signs by closing different valves.
Backflow prevention devices must be tested annually at a minimum. They also need testing whenever the device has been serviced for any reason, and immediately after it's installed.
Absolutely. Taking that burden off your shoulders is part of my job. Through Potaflow, the backflow testing compliance platform, you'll receive automatic email reminders of your upcoming test.
