Backflow preventers are required on all commercial buildings and many residential buildings. And they have to be tested annually. Our team of experts is ready to install, inspect, repair, and replace all types of backflow assemblies. Renowned Plumbing provides affordable backflow prevention services to all Southern California areas.
Necessary Because?
Backflow prevention is necessary because it literally saves lives. Differences in pressures can cause dirty water to flow backward into clean water plumbing, potentially introducing disease organisms and/or toxic chemicals.
A flow reversed from what’s intended can happen in two basic situations.
- Increased downstream (back) pressure can result from supply pumps, re-circulation pumps, boilers, solar energy systems, and other causes.
- Siphoning (a reduction in supply pressure) can occur when there’s a break in the water main or a high-demand such as during firefighting. Other causes also include re-circulation pumps.
Nearly every city, including Pomona, requires backflow prevention assemblies to protect public drinking water systems. Requirements are also set forth in the Unified Plumbing code. It sets standards for any and all connections between potable and potentially non-potable water. Primary and secondary backflow prevention methods for residential and commercial buildings are specified in dozens of documents covering standards, technical guidelines, and testing certifications. Fire ordinances may also require a backflow assembly for sprinklers and other fire suppression systems.
But no worries. We have the expertise and up-to-date knowledge of federal, state, and local codes.
Backflow Preventers
Backflow prevention assemblies create a physical barrier to flow in the reverse direction in order to stop potentially dangerous flows. The three main types of backflow devices are as follows.
- Reduced-pressure — commonly used on soda fountains, in industrial settings, and in hospitals. This type provides maximum protection.
- Pressure vacuum-breaker — primarily used to prevent irrigation system back-siphoning in residential as well as commercial plumbing. Anti-siphon spill-resistant vacuum breakers are also commonly used on restaurant equipment such as ice makers.
- Double check valve — provides secondary protection in residential plumbing. They’re also used in conjunction with fire sprinkler systems which don’t use toxic fluids such as antifreeze, and in other low-hazard situations.
Pretty much all types require annual safety inspections, testing, and certification.
Renowned Plumbing Backflow Services
Our backflow assembly experts are ready to meet all your needs, 24 hours a day. Our services include the following.
- Survey and assess your plumbing system — a good idea ahead of a formal test.
- Install backflow preventers in new and existing construction.
- Service and repairs for all types of devices.
- Replace unrepairable assemblies.
Note: Although a specific permit is not required for new construction, a permit is required to replace a failed device. We’ll take care of that too.