BACKFLOW
WHAT IS BACKFLOW AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT
Backflow is a term in plumbing for an unwanted flow of water in the reverse direction. It can be a serious health risk for the contamination of potable water supplies with foul water. In the most obvious case, a toilet flush cistern and its water supply must be isolated from the toilet bowl.
WHY DOES THE BACKFLOW TEST
NEED TO BE COMPLETED ANNUALLY?
Federal Law requires water suppliers to protect their water systems from contamination or pollution by cross-connections. Backflow preventers must be tested at least once each year to ensure that they are performing properly in preventing backflow. When necessary, they must be repaired in order to assure proper operation.
WHAT IS A
BACKFLOW PREVENTER?
A backflow preventer is a means or mechanism to prevent backflow. The basic means of preventing backflow is an air gap, which either eliminates a cross-connection or provides a barrier to backflow. The basic mechanism for preventing backflow is a mechanical backflow preventer, which provides a physical barrier to backflow. The principal types of mechanical backflow preventer are the reduced-pressure principle assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check valve assembly.
WHY DO BACKFLOW PREVENTERS
HAVE TO BE TESTED PERIODICALLY?
Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear, or fatigue. Also, mechanical backflow preventers and air gaps can be bypassed. Therefore, all backflow preventers have to be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning properly. A visual check of air gaps is sufficient, but mechanical backflow preventers have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment.
We offer Backflow Testing, Backflow Device Repair and a variety of installation services. Click here to schedule a free consultation call to evaluate your backflow testing, backflow device repair and county compliance backflow needs. We are licensed and insured and can work anywhere in Idaho. We keep our overhead low to provide you with the best pricing possible. We handle the paperwork and will get your job done quickly and efficiently.
Mike's Backflow, located in the Treasure Valley, is a superior service provider for property managers, industrial plant managers, government, commercial, maintenance providers, residences and others that need to comply with the annual testing of backflow devices required under Idaho state law. We are the backflow company for your needs!
We work on all approved devices and can replace any obsolete device with one that is on the most current approved list. Backflow devices are designed to maintain water quality by keeping pollutants and contaminates from entering the drinking water supply. Water Districts are required by the EPA and the State of Idaho to implement a Cross Connection Control Program. We help reduce your liability by making sure your device is working properly.
Some examples of pollutants and contaminates are irrigation water, pesticides, cleaning agents, water conditioners for boilers, x-ray developer, fire supply lines, soda machines, etc.
We test and service the following types of backflow devices:
- Pressure Vacuum Break PVB
- Spill Resistant Vacuum Break SPVB
- Double Check DC
- Reduced Pressure Principle RPZ
Your backflow prevention devices are essential to keeping your home or business safe and sanitary. If you suspect yours has gone on the fritz, bring in a team of backflow repair specialists. Mike's Backflow has extensive experience repairing makes and models of all types and can provide an effective solution to any problem. We'll examine your backflow prevention devices carefully to detect any issues and make sure your water supply hasn't been contaminated. If we find any issues, you'll receive a repair recommendation that you can rely on.
TRUST MIKE'S BACKFLOW SERVICES WITH ALL OF YOUR BACKFLOW NEEDS
We will make sure your home or office space's backflow prevention devices are operating efficiently. We'll offer a variety of services designed to prevent backflow issues, including:
- Backflow testing
- Backflow installation
- Backflow repair
- Backflow theft prevention
No matter the size or scope of the job, Mike's Backflow Services has got you covered!
Backflow Prevention Replacement
If a backflow prevention device can't be repaired at a lower cost, then we can replace it with a new lead free backflow device. We will assess your particular backflow device situation and recommend the best solution.
Backflow Prevention Repair
A backflow prevention device is often able to be repaired at a lower cost than replacing an entire backflow device. Upon arrival, we may test the backflow device to assure it is currently preforming all the backflow prevention functions the particular device is designed to do. We will asses your particular backflow device situation and recommend the best solution.
Testing and Certification
As certified backflow testers, Mike's Backflow is dedicated to simplifying your backflow prevention needs, including testing and certification. If you're a business or commercial property owner, each year the water authority will contact you with a form to be completed by a certified backflow tester. Once you receive this paperwork, contact us and we will perform the necessary steps required to test, certify and submit your certification to the appropriate water authority in your area. We will work with alarm companies, tenants and landlords to be sure they are notified prior to testing (as it requires the water to be turned off briefly) and the certification can be completed in a timely manner. Backflows are required to be tested annually, as well as my testing equipment. I will retain backflow reports for a period of 1 year from test date.