Many commercial and residential buildings have backflow preventer valves installed. These devices prevent the mixing of clean and contaminated water, and they’re typically installed in places where such pipes cross-connect. Valves are used on properties with irrigation and fire suppression systems, which create a higher backflow risk. They should be tested once per year, and Backflow Testing in Huber Heights OH should always be done by a certified plumber. Here, business and homeowners can learn some of the most common backflow preventer issues.
A Faulty Check Valve
The primary check valve in a backflow preventer opens at certain intervals, which allows the pressurization of the space between the primary and secondary valves. Most valves open at a minimum of two PSI, but a faulty valve may open at a reduced pressure. While the plumber inspects the primary valve by seeing which way water flows through it, testing of the secondary valve involves looking for indications of backpressure.
The Relief Valve Opens at an Excessively High Point
When water goes into a relief valve, it enters a sensing line as well. As it enters the relief valve sensing line, it meets a stretchable element that allows it to build up enough pressure to press a spring. In turn, the spring moves a relief valve disc that blocks the seal. As far as PSI is concerned, backflow preventers can have varying thresholds. If the relief disc or other internal component isn’t seating correctly, the threshold can become too high.
The Relief Valve Opens at a Low Point
The opening point of a relief valve can become too low, typically because something is inhibiting movement into the stem mechanism. Most of the time, the reduced movement is due to corrosion, scale, and related water quality issues.
Backflow preventers are designed to work behind the scenes, but they still need periodic maintenance to work efficiently. By looking for the above signs of trouble, a home or business owner can stop a small backflow problem from becoming a big one. For Backflow Testing in Huber Heights OH, as well as other plumbing services, call A & L Plumbing today.
