Backsiphonage and backpressure backflow are undoubtedly the most pressing plumbing concerns. Read on to learn more about these plumbing phenomena and the tools required to prevent further water supply complications.
The Basics of Backsiphonage
The easiest way to understand how backsiphonage works is by imagining a drinking straw. When you suck on a drinking straw, the negative pressure, or vacuum, pulls the liquid up. When you release it, the flow quickly reverses. This phenomenon occurs in plumbing systems when outside water pressure drops, and the impacts are quite severe. Reversed flow can introduce contaminants into public drinking water reserves and is often caused by a halted water supply from water main ruptures, fire hydrant use, or plumbing repairs.
The Basics of Backpressure Backflow
Backpressure backflow differs from backsiphonage in that it’s caused by downstream pressure increases rather than sudden vacuums. Regardless of directional flow, upstream (supply) pressure transports water inside of pipes. When downstream pressure exceeds the supply pressure, backpressure backflow occurs. The effects are the same as backsiphonage, potentially polluting potable water supplies. What causes downstream pressure to increase substantially? Water main ruptures and breaks are sometimes the culprit, but a reduction in supply pressure due to excess use is the most common instigator.
Preventing Instances of Backflow
Luckily, certain equipment prevents instances of backsiphonage and backpressure backflow, protecting the health and well-being of the public and surrounding communities. Backflow preventers utilize different valves to control the flow of water. Depending on the specific assembly of a backflow preventer, the valves react to changes in flow and pressure and make corrections to safeguard plumbing cross-connections. Certain types of backflow prevention equipment can remove chemical contaminants and viruses from water supplies!
Backsiphonage and backpressure backflow are major plumbing concerns. If you notice issues with your plumbing and backflow prevention equipment, consider hiring professional repair services as soon as possible to mitigate future complications.
