What is a backflow prevention valve?

Backflow prevention devices prevent the contamination of your drinking water with non-potable water, solids, or gasses by preventing water from flowing backwards into supply lines at points where cross connections occur.

If your home has a lawn irrigation system, the backflow preventer is typically located on the outside of the home. If your home has a fire suppression system, the backflow preventer is typically located in the basement or utility room.

How does contamination occur?

Non-potable water or chemicals can end up in drinking water lines as a result of backpressure or backsiphonage. Backpressure occurs when the pressure in a water system is greater than the supply line of potable water. Backsiphonage occurs when the pressure of potable water supply lines drops (due to a broken main or heavy water demand) and contaminants are sucked back into your neighborhood’s water supply system.

We are certified to test, repair & replace backflow valves

A state-certified backflow tester must perform the test on your backflow valve(s) and return copies of the test report to Anne Arundel county Department of Public Works within 30 days of a passing test. Failed tests must be sent within 72 hours. In the event of a device failure, Anne Arundel Plumbing is licensed and certified to perform any repairs necessary.

The Importance of Backflow Prevention

An unprotected point of water use could contaminate the drinking water not only to your business or home, but also the water system connected to neighboring homes and businesses. Severe injuries and even death have resulted from cross contamination events as well as outbreaks of Hepatitis A, Gastroenteritis, poisoning, and chemical burns in showers.

Responsibility to Home and Business Owners

All homeowners, business, and facilities are required to install a backflow prevention assembly on point of use water supply lines where deemed necessary. All testing of assemblies is to be performed by certified and County approved tester with an initial test after installation then annually or more frequently if deemed necessary by Anne Arundel County.

The Cost of Backflow Prevention

Proper maintenance and replacement of faulty assemblies is the responsibility of the business or homeowner. A backflow preventer may be the only barrier you have between possible contamination and the public water supply. Your investment in installation and maintenance are minimal compared to the potential liability of a backflow incident.