Backflow Preventers and why they're important!

 Backflow preventers are integral to safe and clean potable water:

There are several types of backflow preventers, each with the same goal in mind, not allowing contaminated water to enter the potable water system by stopping "backflow".

DCVA or Double Check Valve Assembly

    - Double check valves: They operate with two spring loaded check valves that operate independently from one another.
    -Shut off valves: Two shut off valves will be located on the inlet and outlet of the preventer to isolate incoming water.
    -Test cocks: This assembly will be fitted with test cocks that allow testing the operation of the check valves.
    -Low-Hazard Applications: These assemblies are commonly used in low-hazard situations like irrigation systems and fire sprinkler systems, where the potential for contamination is a minimal risk.

    -Installation: These assemblies are installed on the water supply before any equipment that could potentially contaminate the water supply.

    -How it works: Water flows from the water supply in a singular direction towards in the inlet, and both check valves are forced open by flow of water. When backflow is detected such as when the pressure drops in the potable water supply, the check valves close and does not allow the backflow. The dual valves serve as a safeguard, if one valve fails, the other can still prevent backflow.


    AVB and PVB Vacuum Breakers 

    AVB or Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker: An assembly that opens to the atmosphere when the water flow stops, preventing back-siphonage.

    PVB or Pressure Vacuum Breaker:     These are used in areas with continuous pressure and are often found on sprinkler systems.

    How it Works:     If the pressure drops (a vacuum forms), the vacuum breaker opens an air inlet, breaking the vacuum and preventing water from being drawn back into the potable supply.

    RPZ or Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly

    These valves maintain a reduced pressure downstream of the device, preventing backflow due to back-pressure. They are commonly used in fire sprinkler systems and other high-risk applications.

    Double check valves: Similar to the DCVA, this assembly is fitted with two check valves to prevent backflow in either directions.

    Pressure Relief Valve:     This assembly also has a pressure relief valve incorporated that automatically relieves excess pressure in the zone between the two check valves, ensuring if a check valve fails, it will dump the water to prevent backflow.

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