Backflow is the unintended reverse flow of water in a piping system. If a sudden loss or reduction in supply pressure occurs on the providers side, water from your property can ‘flow back’ into the potable water supply. A backflow device acts as a point of protection between water on your property and the public water supply.
Generally, most commercial, industrial, irrigation & multi-unit residential properties are required to have a backflow preventer installed on their water line. The local water authorities are tasked with evaluating the risk or potential risk at each property.
Backflow preventers need to be inspected and tested annually to ensure they are operating properly. The water authority is tasked with keeping track of the devices in their area and maintaining accurate records of each one.
There are many things that could contribute to a backflow failing. In the event that the backflow fails its annual test, it will need to be serviced and necessary repairs completed in order to return it to normal operation.
