Backflödesprevention

Backflödesprevention, or backflow prevention, refers to methods and devices used to stop contaminated water from entering the potable water supply. This contamination can occur when there is a change in pressure within the water system, causing water to flow in the reverse direction from its intended path. Such a reversal is known as backflow.

There are two primary mechanisms that cause backflow: back-pressure and backsiphonage. Back-pressure occurs when the pressure in the non-potable system becomes higher than the pressure in the potable water supply, forcing the contaminated water into the clean supply. Backsiphonage happens when a negative pressure (vacuum) is created in the potable water system, drawing the contaminated water from a lower elevation into the higher pressure potable supply.

Common backflow prevention devices include vacuum breakers, atmospheric vacuum breakers, pressure vacuum breakers, and reduced pressure zone assemblies. Each device is designed to interrupt the possibility of backflow under different conditions. For example, vacuum breakers allow air into the piping when a vacuum is detected, thus preventing backsiphonage. Reduced pressure zone assemblies use a differential pressure to maintain a barrier between the potable and non-potable water.

Maintaining a safe potable water supply is crucial for public health. Backflow prevention devices are essential components of plumbing systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities to safeguard against potentially harmful contaminants entering drinking water. Regular inspection and maintenance of these devices are necessary to ensure their continued effectiveness.