The backflow prevention device is a critical part of the plumbing of a commercial building. It does the job of stopping the flow of water from the sewage system into the freshwater system and the creation of a public health hazard. But backflow preventers wear down over time and will eventually fail. Because it’s hard to detect the decline of backflow prevention devices until they completely fail, they must have routine testing done to keep a building up to code.
If your commercial facility receives a municipal notification that you must have your backflow prevention device tested and the results reported, you can’t do the test on your own. The work must be done by a plumber with a special license. We’re the local contractor who handles commercial plumbing in Medina, OH you can trust for this service.
The Role of the Backflow Preventer
Backflow is the name for when wastewater flows in the wrong direction and enters into the freshwater pipes through a cross-flow connection (i.e. any physical connection between freshwater and possible source of wastewater contamination). Homes rarely have concerns about backflow because there is a gap between taps and drains: wastewater can leap up from a drain and get into a faucet, for example. But for larger commercial facilities, there may be several cross-flow connections where backflow can occur.
There are two different ways for backflow to happen. The pressure on the wastewater side may increase, pushing it into the freshwater side. But the more common cause is back-siphonage, which is when a drop in pressure on the freshwater side pulls wastewater in the wrong direction. This can happen if there is a large demand placed on freshwater, such as from a sprinkler system or because of the fire department using a nearby fire hydrant.
The backflow preventer is designed to allow water to flow only one direction through the cross-flow connection: freshwater to wastewater. If the flow direction reverses, regardless of the reason, the preventer closes a valve to stop any contamination from entering the freshwater side.
Backflow Prevention Testing
Taking care of backflow prevention testing is simple. When your business receives a notification from the local water department, call our office. We’ll schedule an appointment for one of our licensed backflow prevention testers to come to your facility and make the required tests. If your preventer passes the tests, you’ll receive the results to send to the local water department. If the backflow preventer fails the test, we can help you with the changes that will bring your business back up to code.
Your Local Commercial Plumbing Contractor
Crown Group Ohio has been in business since 1963, and we’ve been family-owned and operated from the start. We understand the needs of your business and have the licensed plumbers who will take the best care of it. You can always depend on us—we are here for you 24/7 to meet your commercial plumbing needs.
Call on Crown Group Ohio 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for commercial plumbing service in Stark and Summit counties.