What is Backflow?
Backflow refers to a water reversal in the plumbing that leads to contaminated water. It is extremely dangerous and can cause many illnesses when people are exposed to contaminated water. Backflow occurs when the water flow reverses direction due to pressure causing clean water to become dirty. This creates a major public health hazard for not just the entire household but the community.
How Dangerous is Backflow?
Backflow negates the entire plumbing system and is hazardous for humans. Several diseases can infect the body due to contamination in the drinking water. Since the color of the water may or may not still be clear, it’s not always easy to judge whether the water is safe to drink.
Dysentery, amoebiasis, infectious hepatitis, and salmonella can all be caused by drinking backflow. In the mid-'70s, an outbreak of Legionnaires disease was caused by Philadelphia’s public drinking water. Living next to plant nurseries, chemical plants, and insect control businesses can increase the likelihood of backflow affecting a community.
Drinking water is not the only way backflow affects health. Contaminated shower water can create lesions or blisters along the skin’s surface. Those living without clean water often experience rashes due to chemicals and other pollutants.
A plumbing system cannot work without a backflow preventer. If backflow occurs from a crossed connection in the pipelines, this renders the system ineffective. Backflow issues can be temporarily fixed, but eventually, the sewer system needs a real solution.
Routine Backflow Testing
Backflow is dangerous for the whole community when the public water supply is connected to a home water system. A cross connection in the pipes allows backflow to contaminate drinking fountains, lakes, and public schools.
Backflow testing is needed to ensure the backflow preventer and all other prevention methods are holding up. During backflow testing, qualified plumbers will test that everything is in good working order, and if not, they will fix anything before it puts the plumbing at risk for backflow.
Annual backflow testing is recommended for all households and businesses. A qualified professional can also ensure that the height of the backflow assembly fits the statewide building code. Backflow testing reduces the risk of dirty water infecting homes and public buildings.
How Does Backflow Testing Help?
Backflow testing services should be conducted routinely to prevent potential health hazards. Testing for backflow is essential to avoid contamination of the water supply. By regularly testing backflow devices, people can ensure that they are working properly and that their water is safe from contamination. Backflow testing also protects the public health by preventing exposure to contaminated water.
If someone is responsible for maintaining a backflow device, it’s important to have it tested regularly. Testing is typically done annually, but more frequent testing may be necessary depending on the type of device and the water system it protects.
The Meridian Company
The Meridian Company is a family-owned and local business serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They offer superior customer service, fast response, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for backflow testing and certification in Lansing, MI.
