Backflow Testing
What Is The Backflow Testing Process?
How to Prevent Backflow in a Fire Protection System
The simplest method of preventing backflow is to create an air gap, which is an open vertical space between any piping system-connected device and any location where contaminated water can collect. The installation of a device called a backflow preventer may be required when there is not enough space to create an air gap.
There are several types of backflow preventers, including:
- Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly: An RPZ is considered the industry standard for backflow prevention in apartment buildings and condominiums, as they provide the highest level of protection against contaminants.
- Pressure Vacuum Breaker Assembly: A PVB contains a specially designed, spring-loaded poppet that makes it well-suited for high-hazard applications, or when valves are located downstream.
- Double Check Assembly: A DCA valve protects against both back pressure and back siphonage in low-hazard applications.
Backflow Testing in Arizona
Backflow is a common fire protection system issue. Backflow refers to the reversal of the flow of non-potable water in the piping of a sprinkler
system that can contaminate a drinking water supply.
There are two primary causes of backflow: back pressure — which occurs when the pressure in downstream piping rises above the supply
pressure of the piping system — and back siphonage, which is the result of the supply pressure dropping below the water system pressure.