Clean water is one of our most valuable resources. How would you feel if you found out that the water supply for your home or neighborhood was contaminated? It’s a situation no one wants experience. Thankfully, it’s a relatively rare occurrence thanks to measures put in place by state and municipal authorities. One of the most effective ways to prevent water contamination is backflow testing. What exactly is this process and how is it used to keep water supplies safe? The plumbers near you at 1st Choice Plumbing offer backflow testing in the Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Lancaster, and Chester area of South Carolina. Here are the basics of backflow prevention that you need to know.

What is backflow?

Backflow occurs when suction draws dirty water into a clean water supply. It can be an issue with residential and commercial irrigation systems, as well as businesses that use potentially hazardous materials.

What is a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is a check valve unit. The valves in this device keep contaminated water from reversing into your clean water system. The type of backflow preventer that’s needed for your property depends on your risk for backflow.

What is backflow testing?

Backflow testing is required on a regular (usually annual) basis to make sure your backflow preventer is working properly. The test ensures that proper pressure is maintained within the device and that it’s capable of stopping the backflow of contaminated water.

What if I suspect cross-contamination?

If there’s ever any question about your backflow preventer, you should immediately contact a backflow testing company. Ignoring a problem could lead to cross-contamination of your water supply – or the water supply for those living and working around you. It’s a serious matter with serious consequences.

When you need backflow testing at your home or business in the Rock Hill, Chester, or Lancaster, SC area, call 1st Choice Plumbing. Our plumbers near you want to keep your water safe and clean!