There is nothing worse than flushing a toilet and having the sewage liquids backflow. When sewage water flows backward and up into the toilet, it will most likely end up doing the same in the bathtub. Backflow generally targets the lowest points in the plumbing system, which is always always the toilet and bathtub. The risk of backflow is associated with liquids and gases contaminated with bacteria. Backflow contaminants have been connected to various illnesses – dysentery, amoebiasis, infectious hepatitis, typhoid, Legionnaire’s disease, and salmonella.

When the flow of contaminated liquids from the sewage system is forced in reverse, it will end up in connected facilities, such as the bathtub lavatory, and toilet. Factors like clogs, a damaged sewage pipe, public service provider issues, and pressure problems.

Preventing Backflow Sewage

When there is a disruption in the flow of contaminated liquids from the residential sewage system, a licensed plumber can help. Most average people know little to nothing about their sewage systems. In fact, some home and business owners, landlords, tenants, and others do not give a second thought to the condition of their sewage system. Plumbers highly recommend backflow prevention testing at least once every three days. The assessment must be performed by a licensed plumber or designated service provider.

• Air Gap Installation – Sewage systems lacking an air gap device are at a high risk of backflow. The device is integrated into the sewage system, in high-risk areas, such as the dishwasher-contaminated waste drain lines. An air gap device leaves space between the supply line and the receptacle’s flood rim. These devices help prevent the backflow of water, which has been shown to damage connected appliances, such as the dishwasher.
• Backflow Valve Installation – Building code regulations require backflow devices, called “RPZ valves,” to be installed in the plumbing systems of commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. The main purpose of the backflow valve is to prevent contamination of drinking water flowing into buildings from the municipal water supply.
• Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker “AVB” Installation – An AVB device is designed to prevent backflow in plumbing systems. The device prevents contaminated liquids from mixing with potable water. AVD devices are constructed from quality brass to ensure durability and longevity. They are installed on high-risk backflow connections.

How Do Plumbers Test Backflow Prevention?

When consumers hire backflow prevention services, they are hoping the components of their plumbing systems are in good condition. Knowing a plumbing system is working as it should minimize many concerns homeowners have to deal with daily. There is no doubt, many people ignore their plumbing system until it is too late. Do not follow suit unless you want to wake up one morning to a backflow problem.

The testing process assesses all the backflow prevention components on your home’s plumbing system. These components include air gap, backflow prevention valve, pressure level, and an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Your plumber will sit down with you to discuss the testing process in advance.

Conclusion

Do not fall prey to your plumbing system. Instead, reach out to your local plumbing service provider.