Summer is a time for fun in the Santa Maria sun! Whether you’re firing up the grill, washing the car, or keeping your lawn lush, it’s important to be aware of potential plumbing hazards that can threaten your home’s water safety. One such hazard is backflow, which can occur when the normal flow of water is reversed, sucking contaminants back into your clean water supply. Here at Griffin Plumbing, we’re committed to keeping your family safe. That’s why we’re offering some essential summer safety tips for preventing backflow and contamination, as well as information to help you better understand backflow.
Backflow: A Hidden Danger
Backflow can happen in two main ways:
- Back Siphonage: This occurs when a sudden drop in water pressure creates a vacuum effect, sucking contaminated liquids (such as sprinklers, pool water, chemicals, or even sewage systems) back into the pipes. This can pose serious health risks.
- Back Pressure: This happens when a pressure surge in the city main or another source forces contaminated water back into your home’s plumbing.
Contaminated water can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin irritation, and even worse health problems.
Preventing Backflow Contamination
There are a few things you can do to help prevent backflow contamination, including:
- Backflow Prevention Assemblies: These devices are installed on your plumbing system to prevent contaminated water from entering your clean water supply.
- Regular Testing and Maintenance: Backflow prevention assemblies require regular testing (often annually) by a plumber to ensure they are functioning correctly. At Griffin Plumbing, we offer comprehensive backflow assembly testing and repairs to keep your Santa Maria home safe.
- Maintain Your Irrigation Systems: Regularly inspect and maintain your sprinkler system for leaks or clogs that could cause pressure fluctuations and backflow.
- Disconnect and Drain Hoses: When not in use, disconnect hoses from the hose bib and drain them completely. This prevents stagnant water from breeding bacteria and creating a backflow risk.
- Avoid Submerging Hoses: Never submerge your hose in pools, wells, ponds, or any potentially contaminated water source.
By following these safety tips and maintaining your plumbing system, you can significantly reduce the risk of backflow contamination and ensure your family has access to safe drinking water year-round, especially during the busy summer months.
Benefits of Backflow Assembly Testing and Repair
Imagine having complete peace of mind knowing your family’s drinking water is safe from contamination. Backflow assembly testing and repair are essential services that offer a multitude of benefits for your home and community.
1. Protects Your Health
Backflow assemblies act as guardians of your home’s water supply. They prevent contaminated water from entering your clean drinking water system through a process called back siphoning (which we covered in more detail above). This contaminated water can harbor harmful bacteria and pose serious health risks. By ensuring your backflow assemblies are functioning correctly, you safeguard your family’s well-being.
2. Stay Compliant and Avoid Hassles
Many counties enforce regulations requiring annual backflow assembly inspections. Failing to comply can lead to hefty fines or even water service shutdowns. Have a pro handle the testing process and any necessary repairs. This will keep your property up to code so you can avoid unnecessary headaches. Many companies, like Griffin Plumbing, will even take care of the county paperwork for you.
3. Peace of Mind
Not only do backflow assemblies protect against immediate threats, but they also offer long-term benefits. A plumber (like us!) can inspect your entire plumbing system to verify you have the proper backflow assemblies installed. This proactive approach ensures worry-free operation for years to come.
Contact Griffin Plumbing for All Your Backflow Assembly Testing & Repair Needs in Santa Maria, CA and the Surrounding Areas
Here at Griffin Plumbing, we understand the importance of safe drinking water. That’s why we offer reliable backflow assembly testing and repair services. Our commitment to excellence ensures you receive the right solution, the first time, every time. Don’t wait – schedule a backflow assembly testing appointment today with one of our trusted technicians at (805) 751-7206. Invest in the safety of your family and community with Griffin Plumbing.
