Some plumbing problems are minor nuisances, while others fall into the category of potentially serious health hazards. Plumbing backflow is one of the most dangerous plumbing problems that property owners face.
Read on for information about plumbing backflow, what causes it, where it occurs, and how to handle it. Our team at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric provides reliable plumbing solutions in Broken Arrow, OK, and would like you to avoid harmful water system contamination.
Understanding Plumbing Backflow
Backflow is when contaminated water reverses its direction of flow and enters your clean water supply. Of course, health and environmental hazards can be dire when dangerous microorganisms and pollutants intrude into a property’s drinking water.
There are two distinct types of backflow:
- Backpressure: When the pressure in your plumbing system exceeds the pressure in the water supply, contaminated water flows back into the supply. Faulty pumps or thermal expansion can cause this problem.
- Back-siphonage: This occurs when there is a sudden drop in water supply pressure. The vacuum effect sucks contaminated water back into the supply system.
Common Causes of Plumbing Backflow in Broken Arrow, OK
These are some of the most common causes of plumbing backflow in Broken Arrow, OK.
Broken Water Mains
Water main breaches or failures can cause immediate pressure imbalances, causing backflow. If a break develops somewhere near your property, the falling water pressure in the supply system can suck contaminated water back into the supply.
Prolonged Power Outages
Power outages can cause water in storage tanks to become stagnant, promoting bacterial growth. When power suddenly restores, the pressure disruption can cause backflow, pulling the contaminated water into supply lines.
Plumbing Overhauls
Do-it-yourself plumbing repairs sometimes include replacing old pipes and fittings. When done improperly, this work can change the short-term pressure dynamics inside your plumbing system, causing temporary backflow issues. Homes with old pipes and outdated plumbing systems are especially susceptible to this problem.
In-House Pressure Differences
Equipment or appliances that cause sudden changes in water pressure inside your home can cause backflow. For example, a high-pressure cleaner pulls water quickly, potentially creating sharp pressure imbalances.
Clogged Drains
A blocked or clogged drain can cause contaminated water to reverse direction, especially in homes with older plumbing systems with pipe traps. Persistent and difficult clogs often require drain cleaning services, as they can be highly resistant to chemical cleaners or drain snakes. Safe and effective cleaning typically requires professional equipment and expertise to ensure the issue is resolved properly.
Potential Sites of Backflow in the Home
Common places we detect plumbing backflow include:
- Bathroom faucets and fixtures: Outdated or leaky bathroom fixtures can allow contaminated water to reverse flow into your clean water supply. Regular inspection and maintenance are the best preventative measures.
- Kitchens and laundry rooms: These areas use high volumes of water, which increases the risk of plumbing backflow. Ensure proper drainage and properly maintain all water-using appliances.
- Outdoor irrigation systems: Outdoor hydrants, faucets, and sprinkler systems contribute to backflow problems, particularly when older equipment does not include protective devices.
Preventing Plumbing Backflow
Property owners can control plumbing backflow with properly installed devices and techniques, including:
- Check valves: These only allow water to flow in one direction and close when water flows back against them or when vacuum breakers signal them to close.
- Pressure vacuum breakers: These continuously monitor pressure levels in your plumbing system and automatically close check valves when the pressure drops below a critical level that usually matches inside air pressure. These breakers effectively prevent back-siphonage that can occur with sudden pressure drops.
- Air gaps: An air gap is a precisely designed physical break between the water supply and the appliance or container it flows into.
- Hose bib backflow preventers: These devices protect single fixtures from plumbing backflow and are often used on outdoor appliances and fixtures. These include a compact spring assembly that only allows water flow to go in one direction and requires pressure from the correct direction to open.
Broken Arrow, OK, Trusts Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric for Plumbing Backflow Repairs
When it comes to what ruins plumbing pipes, backflow is a leading cause of significant system repair work. Seeking the professional assistance of Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric when needed, along with performing regular maintenance, can help protect your water supply from dangerous contamination.
Trust our experts for reliable plumbing solutions in Broken Arrow, OK, and across the region. With over 30 years of experience, we provide unmatched customer service and ensure your home’s plumbing system operates smoothly.
Contact us today at 918-212-0122 to schedule service to address plumbing backflow at your Broken Arrow property.
