One of the most severe plumbing issues you can face in your home is likely one you’ve never heard of. Backflow is a very real issue, however, and one you can easily protect against. At Paul The Plumber, we’re here to help. As the leading backflow testing, certification, and installation plumbers, we can ensure that your home is protected and your device is in good working order. While backflow may happen unexpectedly, you can make sure your Nashua, NH home is ready for anything!
Dealing with other plumbing emergencies in your home? Our technicians are available for emergency service, protecting your home and family when you need it most.
What Causes Backflow?
In basic terms, backflow is caused when the flow of water is reversed – causing it to flow back into your home – which is where the name comes from. If this happens in your home, wastewater and other contaminants and mix in with your drinking water, putting your entire family at risk. Generally, backflow stems from a major change in pressure in your system. This can be caused by issues like:
- Burst pipes
- Ruptured water main
- An open fire hydrant
- Issue at the main pumping station
At the local level, your biggest concern will likely be a damaged water main or a burst pipe. Any time you see a change in the water quality in your home, if there are odors coming from your plumbing, or there’s a fast drop in pressure, call for immediate help.
How Do Preventers Work?
The plumbing system in your home is based mainly on pressure. This allows water to pump into your home and flow out when it’s done. As mentioned above, backflow is when that pressure is reversed, allowing wastewater to flow back into your home, contaminating your water supply and damaging your plumbing in the process.
One way to prevent stop this from happening is with a backwater valve installation.
A backflow prevented is similar to a wastegate. It allows water to flow into your home, but if there’s a drop in pressure or the water flows in the wrong direction, the wastegate closes, protecting your plumbing from contamination. Because these preventers are always in use, it’s important to keep up with backflow testing and maintenance.
Worried that your old plumbing may put your home at risk for backflow issues? Be sure to ask our technicians whether a whole-home repiping can help!
The Testing & Certification Process
In Nashua, NH backflow certification is a process that needs to be completed by a licensed plumber and varies depending on your installed device. In most cases, your home likely has a reduced pressure zone assembly in place, which is tested on an annual basis. When you schedule an appointment with our plumbers, we’ll check the wastegates and test cocks and ensure that any seals are in good shape.
From there, we’ll perform preliminary pressure tests and water flow inspections ensuring everything is in good working order. If there is a cause for concern, we also offer backflow repair, ensuring your home is once again protected. At Paul The Plumber, our goal is to provide honest advice and quality workmanship, so you can rest easy in your home.
