Backflow protection has been an issue ever since potable water and hazardous water have been “cross-connected” (i.e. tied together). Irrigation water has been deemed a high hazardous use of potable water and consequently requires a relatively high degree of protection. Sprinkler systems supplied by dedicated well or irrigation water need not be protected.
In the 70’ss and early 80’s it was determined that spring loaded backflow assemblies on sprinkler systems were necessary for adequate protection when exposed to water pressure for over 12 hours. These stainless steel springs were deemed necessary to break the tensional seal that occurs between the brass (or plastic) body of the backflow assemblies and the rubber parts of the check, air inlet and relief vales of these devices when under constant pressure. Test cocks were added as well to aid in the determination of their intergrity by allowing them to be tested. To Conform to the Clean Water Act of 1972, federal, state and many municipalaties passed codes that required the implementation of these backflow assemblies as well as their various testing requirements.
Keeping sprinkler system backflow devices in good working order is paramount in keeping our drinking water safe from possible contaminants. These include pet and wildlife excrement (including goose poop), as well as fertilizers and/or herbicides applied to lawn and landsscape areas. The likelihood of back siphoning/ back pressure situation occurring that could potentially such any of these contaminants into the public water supply is remote, but nevertheless it does exist.
For instance, whenever the public water sysrem is depresurixed for any reason (i.e. the tapping in of new water customer, reparis to existing water line), water perssure in the “closed system” will attempt to equalize. Consequently, the water in any affected customer’s property will be drawn into the public water supply if not adequietly protected. The potential for any of these situations to occur makes it necessary to maintain the functionality of the backflow assemblies and illustrates the need for the periodic testing of these devices.
to assist its customers to reduce the risk of possible contamination of the public water supply Alpenglow Sprinkler has a certified backflow tester on hand. In addition, most repair these devices, if necessary, in order to keep them in good working order. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for our assistance in keeping your backflow device compliant with federal, state and local requirements.