What is a backflow preventer

All water systems use specific pipes that bring clean drinking water in, and other pipes that carry waste out of the home. Backflow occurs when decreased pressure levels cause a disruption in the normal flow of this water system. As a result, this decrease in water pressure results in contaminated wastewater (from a toilet or hose) flowing out through the clean water pipes instead of through the waste pipes as it should.

In general, several situations can trigger a backflow event:

• Heavy water usage from a local public source (i.e. fire hydrant used during a fire event)
• Damage to water supply lines
• Pump failures

Specifically, you need to know that an individual backflow event might impact you, your neighborhood, and conceivably, the entire county-wide water system. Thus, your backflow problems could lead to problems for many people. However, there are backflow prevention devices and procedures which will safeguard against contamination of the water system.

  A backflow preventer is a check valve unit installed on your pipes that allows water to only flow in one direction. Mechanically powered backflow preventers open and close valves automatically. As a result, this mechanism completely eliminates the possibility of your wastewater entering the drinking water system. In the event of a backflow preventer failure, serious complications arise.

 Additionally, having irrigation or fire sprinkler systems, in both residential and commercial settings, requires annual testing. Springfield, MO and many other Southern Missouri communities require annual testing of your device. 

Backflow preventer testing is a process to ensure these devices are functioning properly and can prevent contaminated water from entering your clean water supply.  Here's a general overview of the process:

Preparation:

• The tester will identify the type of backflow preventer you have. There are different devices for various applications.
• They will shut off the water supply to the backflow preventer.

Testing:

• The tester will then connect test gauges to the backflow preventer. These gauges measure water pressure at different points within the device.
• They will open and close valves on the test gauges following a specific protocol for your backflow preventer type.  This creates different pressure scenarios to simulate real-world conditions.
• By observing the pressure readings on the gauges, the tester can determine if the backflow preventer is functioning correctly.

Reporting:

• After the test, the tester will provide you with a report detailing the results.
• The report will indicate whether the backflow preventer passed or failed the test.
• If the device fails, the tester will recommend repairs or replacement.

Fairfax instructs that backflow inspections occur on an annual basis. It is necessary to obtain a Branson City permit before conducting testing which is why you need to hire a backflow testing company with the proper certifications. Once completed, our plumbers will submit the test results directly to the city for you.

Backflow Doctors follows the Branson Utilities Department Cross-Connection Control program  guidelines to ensure clean drinking water throughout the Branson. In the event of a backflow problem, we will work closely with Branson Water to isolate, minimize, and control it within 24 hours because we offer emergency plumbing services.

Backflow Testing in Springfield, MO 

Springfield City Utilities, expects testing as part of the installation of a new backflow preventer device. From there, Springfield Water Department, & Missouri Depart of Natural Resources requests testing results annually. If your device happens to fail its testing, Springfield Water allows you 15 days to fix the issue and retest. Only a certified plumber can test, diagnose, and fix backflow preventer problems. Avoid the headache that comes with backflow preventer problems and schedule your backflow inspection today!

Backflow Testing in Joplin, MO 

 Joplin, MO requires annual testing performed by a certified backflow tester. Inspection of a backflow prevention system demands the examination of many working parts. Annual backflow testing in Joplin, requires PSI readings for both check valves and gate valves among other practices that ensure your water is safe. Backflow Doctors will manage everything from shutting off your water to submitting the proper paperwork to the city. Your only job is to get the ball rolling by giving us a call today.

Backflow Testing in Southern Missouri

  Backflow Doctors services residential and commercial clients near you and all across the Southern Missouri area. We provide comprehensive backflow testing and backflow prevention services in, Joplin, Branson, Springfield, Nixa, Republic, Neosho, and many other Southern Missouri regions. Using our 14+ years of expertise, we will provide the most accurate test results that we will promptly submit to the right local organization for you.

To schedule backflow testing, call Backflow Doctors today at (417) 414-0722 or contact us online.

Backflow repairs in Southern Missouri

Our certified team of fire sprinkler fitters can provide you with worry-free repair services for your backflow devices. Call us when you need repair work on a broken device or the replacement of a fire system or irrigation device.

Typically, customers schedule our inspection services first and any needed repairs are identified during the testing process. However, we’re also glad to serve you if you only need to request repair work.

Ready to schedule an inspection or repair work? Request a quote to get started.