BACKFLOW PREVENTION

Large backflow problems have been known to cause widespread, even fatal illnesses

Securing the safety of your water in New York City

Your drinking water is pushed from the city’s water main into your property’s plumbing by pressure and it should only flow in one direction. Sometimes, due to pressure changes in pipes, the water can flow backwards into city water lines and could contaminate the public water supply with human waste or chemicals. New York State law requires certain properties and businesses to install, maintain and test backflow prevention devices, which stop contaminated water from flowing backward into the main water supply. Failing to do so could result in fines or the disconnection of your water service.

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What are the dangers of backflow?

Over the years, large backflow problems have been known to cause widespread, even fatal illnesses. The truth is that pollutants range in degree, and there is almost no telling what residents could be exposed to. During a backflow problem, what you want to be flushed and displaced far away from your building ends up recirculating back into your water supply, exposing you to a wide range of toxins. It's important to prevent these crises for the protection of those in your space and those occupying your commercial property.

To increase your knowledge on the prevention of Backflow - we've listed the following situations where there is potential for backflow to occur:

- Irrigation systems (backflow of irrigation water into the potable water system through the sprinkler and emitter and leaks in the irrigation piping);
- Sillcocks, hose bibbs, wall hydrants, and other openings with a hose connection (backflow of unsanitary water or liquid through the open end of the hose).
- Toilet tanks (unapproved tank fill valves).
- Sinks and lavatories (unapproved air gap).
- Coffee machines directly connected to the water supply (backflow of coffee into the water supply).
- Soft drink dispensing machines (backflow of carbon dioxide gas (CO2) into copper water supply line).