Top 5 Reasons Why You Need Backflow Testing

May 21, 2021
Backflow Testing

Backflow is a plumbing phenomenon in which your home’s wastewater flows backward and becomes a part of your freshwater supply. Sounds unpleasant, right? Well, it is and it is also a health hazard. The mixture of fresh water and waste can not only destroy the plumbing from within due to the chemicals, but it can also cause terrible health problems.

However, there are ways you can stop this from happening. You can install a backflow preventer, and that alone should get the job done. However, how can you be sure your preventer is working?

Experts advise that you opt for backflow testing: a procedure that plumbers use to ensure that the clean water supply isn’t contaminated with dirty or wastewater.

5 Reasons Why Backflow Testing is an Important Procedure

If you’re still hesitant on whether to opt for backflow testing, here are 5 of the most important reasons that suggest why getting backflow testing is a must.

1.    There Are a Lot of Potential Contaminants

Is your home equipped with inground pools, lawn irrigation systems, dishwashers, boiler heaters, or even washing machines? If so, the chances are that contaminants are everywhere. While we are not saying that these contaminants are going to find their way into clean water every single time, the possibility is there.

Contaminated water can be a home for bacteria responsible for diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and hepatitis A. To prevent getting sick, it is better that you get backflow testing done to make sure you’re getting a clean water supply. That way, you can be sure that no contaminated water is going to make its way to your freshwater supply.

2.    It Is Required by Law

Backflow testing is required by not only the Environment Protection Department (EPA) but also local municipalities. Additionally, only plumbers who are certified to do the testing are allowed to do so.

Backflow testing comprises of various steps such as pressurizing the water system, checking every component to ensure optimal operation, and replacing any valves that require changing. So, it can only be carried out by a professional.

3.    It Lowers Liability

If you have any equipment installed that uses water, your home could be prone to backflow. Getting a backflow preventer installed and getting backflow testing done can lower this potential liability.

Not only will you and your family stay healthy, but your expensive equipment and plumbing are safe from any damage or severe malfunction that can cost a lot to repair.

4.    It Can Identify Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems are not random. Most of us fail to see them right away because we are not aware of how these problems look. Thankfully, hiring professionals for backflow testing can identify several of them.

Plumbers can also usually take care of these problems right on the spot. If you have never dealt with a plumbing catastrophe in the past, you should be thankful because these repairs can be expensive if they are not taken care of immediately.

5.    You’ll Have Peace of Mind

We understand that the idea of your freshwater supply being contaminated is a scary one. Everyone feels that way. However, you can lower the risk of this happening by installing a backflow preventer. Just remember that alone is not enough. You also need to opt for backflow testing to ensure it’s working alright.

During testing, the plumbers also ensure that any backflow-related issues are mitigated, so you don’t have to deal with any contamination. This means you can have some peace of mind about the cleanliness of your water supply.

Final Words

When you first learn about backflow, you might be met with worry. After all, having little to no idea about what contaminates your water is a scary thought. What’s even scarier is all the health hazards that come along with it, such as water-borne diseases.

Thankfully, there are ways to prevent backflow from happening. Backflow testing has become a common occurrence and is necessary if you want to keep a check on your home’s water supply. All you need to do is call a certified plumbing service or purchase backflow test kits to see if your water supply is clean.