Why A Backflow Test?

When homeowners receive notification from the county that their backflow needs testing, they often wonder why it's required at all. Firstly, it is important to understand why backflows are needed. A backflow prevents the safe, public water supply from becoming contaminated from a tainted source.  This is accomplished by a one-way valve (backflow) which permits water to flow in only one direction once it enters your system.

Backflow preventers are designed to act as a one-way check valve, preventing the flow of contaminated water from your home back into the public water supply. The compromising of safe  water is usually the result of cross-contamination happening when water from another source such as irrigation, well or pond water enters a homeowner's water system via some damage or faulty design. Since water flows in one direction only (into your home) through this preventer, any contaminated water on your property cannot pass back through to the public supply. This ensures that everyone's water is safe and protected.

Backflow tests are reasonably priced and easily arranged. Since they are located outside of your home, no one needs  to be present when conducted. Most companies typically charge less than thirty dollars, so if you are paying more there are other options. Once the test is successfully completed, the county is notified by the tester and your backlfow is certified for another year.