Why Jacksonville Plumbers Recommend Yearly Backflow Testing
The yearly backflow test is an extremely necessary part of regular home maintenance for a very good reason. Failing to maintain the manual backflow system could result in costly damages such as a basement flooding, or sewer pipes leaking into usable water. While it is recommended that you contact local plumbers in Jacksonville for questions about your specific system, here are some things to know about backflow systems and backflow testing.
What is a Backflow Device?
This is a mechanical device that prevents the reverse flow of potable water. This can cause pollution of drinking water by substances such as sewer gas, waste, and other undesirable things. A backflow device can be installed inside or outside the home. Inside the home it has the advantage of being concealed from the street and protected from a freezing, though plumbers in Jacksonville don’t see that often. The one biggest issue of an indoor backflow device is that when it breaks, it can flood a basement, possibly costing thousands of dollars of damage to a finished basement.
An outdoor backflow device while it isn’t protected from the elements can be serviced when the owner isn’t home and if it breaks the water leaks into the environment and not the home. It is not recommended to have an indoor backflow device if the home doesn’t have a basement.
Why is Yearly Testing So Important?
Besides how much it could save you thousands in re-landscaping and repairs, it is also mandatory in many states and demanded by many homeowners’ associations. Any competent plumber will advise that it be tested at least once a year. Luckily getting a backflow device checked isn’t costly nor is it difficult. If you have an outdoor system, you don’t even need to be home for the plumber to access the system and check it. The only requirement before you leave the home is that all water downstream of the backflow device needs to be shut off.
Since backflow devices are meant to be tested yearly, there are one or several points on a backflow device where a plumber can use a testing kit to assess the functioning of the backflow system. Usually the test involves seeing if the water is running, checking the gasses and the bottom relief port. If any repairs are needed, the plumber will inform the homeowner so that a plan to repair or replace the broken part can be established.
Signs That Something May Be Wrong
All backflow devices fail eventually. In fact plumbers in Jacksonville found that over 5% of backflow devices tested needed some sort of repairs or preventative maintenance. Luckily most of those repairs aren’t costly and quick to implement like a broken O-ring or broken springs. However more severe problems can include shattered poppets and cracked casings which is usually the result of improper maintenance or exposure to extreme temperatures.
While a surface scan is important on a regular basis to make sure everything looks alright, special attention should be paid to the bottom relief port. If it is a little damp on the ground beneath it that is alright as it means that the backflow device is working properly. However, if it is leaking constantly, then that is a sign of a more serious problem and a residential plumber in Jacksonville should be contacted immediately.
Some common problems can be solved by an individual who has the know-how and tools, but if you have any doubt, it is better to leave it to a licensed plumber in Jacksonville.
Knowledge Saves Property when it comes to Plumbing
And knowing a backflow system is going to rupture in a month is a great piece of knowledge to have. Preventative maintenance seems like something to be slid under the rug, but the expression “A stitch in time saves nine,” is especially true here. If you need to have a backflow system installed or repaired, it is best to contact a local Jacksonville plumber who knows all the zoning laws.