Back Flow Prevention Device
What is a Back Flow Prevention Device?
When water enters your irrigation system from the main water supply line, it should only ever flow in one direction: into your irrigation system.
But sometimes, due to pressure changes in the pipes, that water can actually flow backwards and seep back into the main water supply line.
For example, backflow can happen when there’s a break in the main water line or when a fire hydrant is opened for use. Because pressure is lost during these events, water is no longer being pushed forward into your irrigation system and will flow backwards into the city water lines.
And when this happens, backflow can contaminate the public drinking supply with:
- Fertilizers/pesticides
- Human waste
- Chlorine from pools/spas
- Soap from sinks/dishwashers/showers
Do I need a Back Flow Prevention device?
First off, any North Carolina resident who has an irrigation system or a well is required to install a backflow preventer at the water meter (because both systems are at risk of contamination due to backflow). Most Cities, and Counties in North Carolina require yearly testing of the Irrigation Back Flow Device and Replacement every 10 years. More and more Cities and Counties in North Caroline are starting to require Lead Free Back Flow Devices.