If you’ve ever experienced an issue with backflow in your home, you know exactly how unpleasant it can be. More than just unpleasant, it can be hazardous to your health!
To make sure you never have to worry about backflow again, make sure to install a backflow prevention device, like a tundish or air pressure breaker, in your pipe system.
Not sure which device you should install, or even what the difference between the two is? Here’s some information we hope will help you find the best plumbing device to protect your home and family from a backflow disaster.
Why do You Need a Backflow Prevention Device?
If you don’t know what backflow is, it is when the flow of wastewater in your drain pipes is reversed, causing the wastewater to flow backward into your freshwater lines, contaminating your water supply.
This can have severe health ramifications, as wastewater can contain bacteria like E Coli, which can make someone violently ill.
Backflow prevention devices are required, by law, in every house or residential building, and can save your family from contaminated water.
How Does an Air Gap Help?
Creating an air gap, wherein wastewater and potable water can’t mix, is one way to prevent backflow. This can be achieved in two different ways.
A simple way to avoid backflow in your sinks and tubs is to install faucets at a height where, even when the potentially contaminated water in the sink or tub is at its highest possible water level, there is still air space between the potentially contaminated water and the spout.
This way it is impossible for the contaminated water to get into the spout and contaminate the rest of the clean water. The second way to create an air gap is to install a tundish in your system, right where there is a pressure release valve.
Tundishes are a popular choice because they come in all shapes, sizes, and angles, so you're sure to find one that fits your unique plumbing system. They can also protect against another kind of backflow called back pressure.
What is an Air Pressure Breaker?
An air pressure breaker is a device that is installed as close to where the water enters a fixture as possible. Air pressure breakers have three parts: a check valve, an air inlet valve, and a vented chamber.
Under normal circumstances, the check valve will allow water to flow freely through the chamber without opening the air inlet valve.
If there is a change in the air pressure within the pipe, though, the air inlet valve will open and close to relieve some of the pressure.
Finding The Right Choice For You
Choosing what backflow prevention device is best for your home depends on the unique conditions and concerns of your home and plumbing system.
For example, in The Woodlands, TX, we don't have to worry about cold winters damaging our plumbing, but if you lived somewhere with more severe winters, you might decide against installing an air pressure breaker for that reason.
Make a commitment today to keep your home clean and free from bacteria and viruses that can be brought in by backflow. Call JD Precision Plumbing Services for backflow testing and certification!
