If you’re looking to learn something new about plumbing and are unfamiliar with what backflow is, you’re in the right place. Here you can learn what backflow is and all about backflow prevention from your local Calgary plumbing experts.
Typically in modern plumbing, water must maintain pressure in the piping in order to flow from the taps as soon as they’re turned on. If there is no pressure, the water will not be forced to come out of the faucet, resulting in low water pressure or no water at all. Another consequence that may result from a lack of pressure in the plumbing is the possibility of non-potable water from other sources contaminating the water in your home. This result is called backflow.
One option to prevent backflow is to install an air gap, which is something that separates the water supply from the plumbing accessories you use (such as faucets or showerheads). An air gap is easy to install and is one of the most effective ways to prevent backflow. It makes it much more difficult for contaminated water to get into the plumbing, keeping your drinking water safe.
Another option is the installation of backflow preventer valves. Backflow preventer valves can be installed easily by our Calgary plumbing experts. These valves perform the same job as the air gaps to ensure that water from outside sources cannot contaminate the water in your home.
Older homes didn’t have the same building and plumbing requirements that we have today, and many of them do not have any built-in defense against backflow. If you own an older home or are looking into purchasing an older home, it’s a good idea to have it checked. Newer homes are typically built with these features for backflow prevention, but if you are purchasing a home and are unsure if your future home has these features, call us at The Gentlemen Plumbers, your Calgary plumbing experts, and we will be happy to check it out for you.