Lawn Irrigation And Backflow Prevention
Backflow testing is an important part of your annual automatic sprinkler inspection and tune-up. Backflow testing is typically required for all commercial systems, and it is highly recommended for home irrigation systems. This is because backflow problems can cause major issues with your drinking water. If the system backflows, which means it pulls dirty water back into the pipes so that it intermingles with clean water, then you can end up with dirt, pathogens, and lawn chemicals in your water supply. An annual backflow test ensures the system is working properly and safely.
1. Backflow Test
The first task to complete each year, preferably in spring before you turn on the sprinkler system, is to have the backflow system tested. This is typically done as part of your normal sprinkler inspection. Your technician will begin by checking that all of the sprinkler heads are clear and functional, then they will turn on the system and check the line for leaks. If everything is working properly, the backflow test can occur. The tech will shut off water downstream from the backflow preventer device. They will then hook up a test hose to pressurize the system in an effort to drive water back up the line and into the water supply. If the system is working properly, the pressure in the line will increase but water won't breach the preventer device.
2. Fittings Adjustment
After the test, all the fittings for the backflow system must be inspected. If the test failed, a fittings adjustment or upgrade may fix the problem. It's also important to inspect the fittings if the test succeeded in order to verify that nothing came loose under the high pressure. Loose fittings must be retightened or replaced, depending on the reason why they are loose. After this is complete, a second pressure test may be done to ensure everything is still working properly.
3. Device Installation or Upgrade
If your system fails the backflow test and fittings adjustments don't solve the problem, the next logical step is to replace or upgrade the backflow prevention device on the line. This is a relatively quick task and can be done at the same time as the spring start-up and inspection. Your tech simply removes the old devices, places a new device on the line, then repeats the backflow pressure test to ensure everything is now working as it should.
Contact a backflow repair service to learn more about scheduling a backflow test or an inspection of your system.
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