Indoor plumbing and running water dates back to the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans. While very rudimentary, the plumbing systems delivered running to the people of these historic communities. Today, our indoor plumbing systems are much more advanced and require careful attention and consideration. Our modern systems rely on gravity and pressure and deliver water to and from homes and other buildings. While our systems today are more efficient and innovative than those early systems, some problems can arise.
When you turn on the faucet, you expect that the water will be clean and safe to drink. The majority of the time, you have nothing to worry about regarding the safety of the water supply in your home. This is particularly true if you rely on a public water supply such as your town or county. However, potable water can become contaminated if it comes into contact with other water sources or substances. As a result, private companies, cities, and towns behind these water supply systems have invested heavily in backflow preventers to avoid any contamination. Let’s take a look at the importance of an RPZ backflow preventer and the things that can go wrong without one.
What is backflow?
When water travels from various locations to your home, it has to pass through many connections that often serve non-potable water as well. Our modern systems are designed to allow all water to flow in one direction into your main water line and then into your home. As long as the water flow remains constant and in the right direction, there is usually no opportunity for contaminants to enter the water supply. However, changes in pressure can cause water to flow in the reverse direction. This is known as backflow and is a phenomenon in plumbing where water under high pressure is forced back towards the supply. Siphonage of contaminated water from cross-connections can allow dirty water into the system when this happens.
What causes backflow?
As discussed, backflow is caused by changes in pressure. As an example, a water main break can create a vacuum in the system and cause the water to move in the opposite direction. This is why towns and cities will issue a boil advisory after a water main break and mandate that all citizens boil their water to get rid of contaminants. There have been several instances in the United States where cases of backflow have been reported in main water lines. In some cases, this has caused illness and hospitalization for many residents. Some of the problems have also caused explosions that destroyed property and injured people.
Why are backflow preventers important?
Backflow protection devices are designed to prevent water contamination in the event of a backflow. The RPZ preventer is one of the most reliable systems available to prevent backflow. Also known as a reduced pressure zone device, it divides the supply and user sides of the plumbing system. These devices ensure that water only flows one way and prevents contamination. RPZ devices are required on many plumbing systems throughout commercial and residential buildings. Mass water supply systems in cities and counties also utilize backflow preventers throughout the line. In some areas, laws mandate that backflow preventer devices be installed on lawn sprinklers, boiler feeds, and fire protection systems.
RPZ devices are most common in commercial settings with complex plumbing systems. In some instances, however, you may need one for your residence to keep your water safe from contamination from a sprinkler system for fire system. If you require a backflow preventer or looking to have your device inspected and certified, you should speak to a qualified plumbing technician in your area. A certified plumber can help with equipment testing, repairs, and installation.
