Backflow Preventer Edmonton
Backflow Preventer Companies in Edmonton
Backflow refers to water that flows the wrong way in a plumbing system. Backflow can happen when water pressure drops due to burst pipes or fire hydrants, causing contaminated water to flow into lower-pressure areas and tainting potable water. Also, this is especially important in keeping pressurized fire sprinklers or fire lines from flowing back into the municipal water line. Backflow Preventers eliminate the possibility of polluting the municipal water system, as it poses a severe health hazard when public drinking water becomes contaminated.
Backflow Prevention and Testing
A backflow preventer can be installed to prevent backflow from occurring. In the case of an unexpected or dramatic change in water pressure, this backflow preventer will stop dirty water from entering the clean water supply. We install the device and test it to ensure that the clean water line remains free of contaminants.
Annual testing of backflow prevention devices is required to ensure that they function correctly. If you do not complete testing on time, you can receive a fine for your business, or the authorities may cut off the water supply to your property. That is why we recommend scheduling testing well ahead of time.
There are two primary purposes for backflow prevention testing:
- To see if backflow is present
- To determine the issue that is causing the backflow so that you can fix it.
The testing process involves valves on the backflow testing device, known as gate and relief valves. Valves will be closed, and we will check gauges for movement, water leaks and other clear signs of an issue.
There are specific criteria that we evaluate during the testing process:
- To ensure that the check valves prevent backflow.
- To ensure that the air ports open when they should.
- Ensure that the relief valves open before the pressure between the check valves is less than 2 PSL below the pressure at the inlet device.
There is nothing specific that a property owner needs to do to prepare for a backflow test. However, we recommend that everyone be aware of the water shut off for a while and that they need to make alternative plans for water use or perform the tasks beforehand.
Types of Backflow Prevention Products
Our backflow prevention devices automatically stop contaminated water from going in the wrong direction in a plumbing system to ensure contamination doesn’t happen. Amptec will perform the proper inspections in the building and advise on the best backwater valve available. Once the backflow preventer installation is complete, we will test it to ensure the system works accordingly.
We suggest several backflow prevention products based on the size and type of plumbing system.
The backflow prevention systems we encounter most commonly are:
Pressure Vacuum Breaker
Pressure vacuum breaker assemblies (PVB) are very common. This system is the most economical type of backflow preventer, and its simple design allows for easy installation and maintenance. The PVB device consists of an inlet shutoff valve at the bottom, a single valve body consisting of a pressure vacuum breaker, a check valve, two test cocks, and an outlet shutoff valve.
Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly
Reduced pressure zone assemblies (RPZ) are the most complex and expensive backflow preventers. We refer to it as “reduced pressure principle assemblies.” The RPZ is the most secure and reliable of all the backflow prevention devices. It is our recommended choice of backflow prevention system for most of our larger commercial and industrial clients. The RPZ consists of an inlet shutoff valve, two independently operating spring-loaded check valves separated by a pressure differential relief valve, four test cocks and an outlet shutoff valve.
Double Check Valves
Double-check valves (DCV) are sometimes called double-check assemblies (DCA). These are ideal backflow prevention devices for underground and indoor installations. A DCV / DCA consists of an inlet shutoff valve, two independently operating spring-loaded check valves, four test cocks and an outlet shutoff valve.
Double Check Valve Assembly
The DCA is a standard backflow prevention device used in underground or in-line installations. In-line (or below-grade) means that the backflow device is parallel with the sprinkler system’s piping. Unlike the PVB, the DCA does not have to be installed 12 inches above the highest point in the system.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers
Atmospheric vacuum breakers (AVB) are a simple, efficient, and cost-effective solution for one or two-zone irrigation systems. An AVB must be installed on the pipe directly after every control valve; we do not recommend AVB devices for systems with many control valves.
AVBs are typically found to be the least reliable and least often recommended. Most larger cities do not allow atmospheric vacuum breakers in lawn sprinkler systems. We cannot use AVBs where they would be subjected to constant pressure, where shutoff valves would be located downstream, where there is a potential for backpressure, or on any system incorporating chemigation techniques.
Our Team Can Help Determine the Best Option for You.
Choosing the proper backflow prevention method is crucial and requires a thorough understanding of the subject. Many factors must be taken into consideration when selecting a backflow prevention device, such as:
- To ensure that the check valves prevent backflow.
- To ensure that the air ports open when they should.
- Ensure that the relief valves open before the pressure between the check valves is less than 2 PSL below the pressure at the inlet device.
Amptec can help determine the best backflow device for your situation.
Backflow prevention isn’t our only water-related service since we can also help with sprinkler systems, hydrants, and standpipes as part of our fire prevention services. Contact us today to learn more about how Amptec can make your home or commercial space safer and more secure.