B. C. BACKFLOW PREVENTION

WHAT IS A BACKFLOW PREVENTER?

 

A backflow preventer is a mechanical device that prohibits backflow of water through a cross connection into the public water supply. The principle types of backflow preventers are the reduced pressure principle backflow assembly (RPBA), the double check valve assembly (DCVA) and the pressure vacuum breaker (PVB).

 

 

WHAT IS A CROSS CONNECTION?

 

A cross connection is defined as any actual or potential connection between a potable water system and any source of contamination or pollution. Cross connections are present in every water system, depending on the size of the system, hundreds or thousands of potential cross connections can exist. 

 

 

WHAT IS BACKFLOW?

 

Backflow is the flow of liquids, solids or gases from any source opposite to the normal direction of flow, back into the potable water supply. The two types of backflow are backsiphonage caused by negative pressure in the supply piping system and backpressure caused by down stream pressure that is greater than the supply pressure in a public water system.

 

 

WHY DO I HAVE TO TEST MY BACKFLOW PREVENTER?

 

It is a matter of public health  to maintain a safe source of potable water. By testing backflow preventers you help to ensure that your drinking water is safe and comply with local by-laws and regulations.

 

WHAT DOES IT COST?

 

The price to come to your property, conduct testing and inspection of a single backflow preventer and submit CRD reports on your behalf is $90.