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What is a backflow device & why does it need tested?
Water Districts require homeowners to have an annual backflow test completed by a certified backflow tester, but what is a backflow & why does it need to be tested annually?
What is a Backflow device & why does it need tested annually?
A backflow device is used to protect water supplies from an undesirable reversal of flow of non-potable water or other
substances through a cross connection and into the piping of a public
water system or consumer's potable water system. This reversal of flow
or "backflow" can allow contaminated water to flow backward, drawing a
contaminant into the water supply. For
example, without backflow protection, attaching a fertilizer sprayer to
a garden hose or even placing your hose in a soap bucket for car
washing can create a cross connection and possible health hazards. It's for everyone's safety to have a fully operational backflow device.
Backflow
can be caused when an unforeseen change in water pressure allowing the
water to flow backwards within the water supply piping system from a
contaminated source to a drinking water supply. A drop in pressure
could be caused by a variety of things, including a water main break or
the need to fight a fire. This is why it needs tested annually, any of these situations can compromise your backflow device.
Who can test a backflow device?
Testing in Oregon
must be done by Department of Human Services certified backflow testers. The City of Bend maintains a complete list of certified backflow testers. Here at Springtime we are proud to employ not 1, not 2, but 5 certified backflow testers! The charge for that test is $45.00 per device. Sign up today!
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