Your drainage system is supposed to keep water flowing in only one direction – when that system fails, backflow can cause significant damage to both the system and to the building. Because backflow means that contaminated water is moving the wrong way into a clean water supply, it can also lead to illnesses if consumed. Preventing backflow from becoming a possibility is always the best way of dealing with it, as it is a much larger headache if it happens.
Maintain Your Drainage Systems
One of the best ways to prevent backflow from becoming a problem is by simply keeping on top of your drainage system maintenance. Ensure that your water pipes and pumping units are kept in good working order and inspect for signs of damage or faults.
Install a Prevention Device
Backflow prevention devices exist on the market to avoid backflow in the event that the water pressure in the main supply drops lower than the pressure in the pipes. A prevention device such as a non-return valve will restrict water to flow in only one direction, meaning that contaminated water will not physically be able to travel the wrong way down a pipe.
Pay Attention to Your Taps
Taps such as outdoor garden taps and your shower head tend to be common spots for backflow to happen. Because an outside garden tap can be sideways or raised, it gives the opportunity for water to flow in the wrong direction. A shower head left dangling at the bottom of the bathtub is liable to accept standing water back into the pipes, so be sure to always leave your shower head upright in it’s proper holder – and install prevention systems into your garden taps and showers if possible.
Because backflow can end up becoming a health issue as well as a hazard to the system itself, it is important to take preventative measures to ensure that it does not happen. If you have questions about your drainage, call your local professional today for an inspection.
