Imagine arriving to your commercial site and having issues with plumbing. Whilst this may seem like a large ask, backflow is an issue that cannot be ignored.
Commercial buildings will have the correct water for drinking, hand washing, cooking and equipment. However, due to pressure issues, water can flow back into your system and contaminate your drinking water.
It is important to understand how backflow prevention works.
What Causes Backflow in Commercial Plumbing?
Water should always flow from the supply to the equipment. However, due to pressure issues water can flow back into your system and contaminate your drinking water.
Backflow can occur in two ways:
Backpressure – This is due to increased pressure in your plumbing system. This can occur due to pumps, boilers and pressurised equipment.
Backsiphonage – This is due to a sudden drop in pressure. This can happen due to a break in the water main or sudden increase in pressure.
If there is a cross connection between your drinking water and a potential contaminated source, this can cause more of an issue. This can include irrigation, chemical dispensers, commercial kitchens and specific mechanical equipment.
Why Backflow Protection is Required for Commercial Properties
Most commercial properties will have more plumbing connections and specialist equipment. For example, restaurants will have dishwashers and cleaning equipment. Offices may have irrigation and mechanical equipment. Industrial will have complex process water connections.
All of this will need to be reviewed.
Backflow prevention devices will ensure no water flows back into your drinking water. This will keep your building and staff, customers and water connections safe. It can help to avoid unnecessary downtime, expensive repairs and compliance issues.
Understanding Potential Cross Connections
Choosing & Installing Backflow Prevention Devices
Depending on the risk, pressure, design and local regulations you will need to choose the correct backflow prevention device.
In some instances you can use an air gap to ensure there is a gap between your water outlet and risk of flooding. In higher risk areas a reduced pressure zone assembly is commonly used. In some lower risk areas you can use double check valve assemblies. Pressure vacuum breakers are commonly used in irrigation areas.
Speak to a qualified plumber to find out the right backflow prevention method.
When installing backflow prevention devices ensure there is enough space to test and repair. Ensure your pipework is properly supported. In some cases you may need to protect your device from environmental damage. Some assemblies will discharge water so ensure this is taken into consideration.
Even if you have the correct device, it may cause problems if it is not easily accessible.
For professional installation, testing and repair support, explore Airco Mechanical’s commercial plumbing services.
Testing & Maintenance
Many parts of your backflow prevention device can wear. Seals can wear, debris can cause issues with your valves and corrosion/freezing can cause damage.
Regular testing will give you peace of mind your device is working correctly. How often you test and level of certification will depend on the device itself, local regulations and your water provider. Many commercial properties will have requirements to regularly test.
Usually a qualified tester will inspect your device. They will test using approved equipment and analyse the pressure. If your device has failed you may need to have it repaired or replaced. Once repaired it will need to be tested.
Building managers should check for any obvious leaks, corrosion, abnormal discharge from relief valve, damage and regular pressure issues. Whilst this does not mean your backflow prevention device has failed it is best to have a professional look.
Keeping accurate records will keep you compliant. This will include knowing where your devices are, test results, any repairs and what needs doing.
Where you may have Backflow Risks
Certain areas of your commercial property may be affected.
Restaurants can cause issues with dishwashers, drink equipment, food prep sinks, chemical dispensers and cleaning stations. All connections should be reviewed to understand the risk of contamination. Pay particular attention to equipment that could introduce cleaning chemicals.
Mechanical rooms can cause issues with boilers, water treatment, pumps and heating/cooling. Working with your plumbing and mechanical contractors will help ensure the correct devices are specified and easily accessible.
Irrigation can cause issues as the sprinklers are in contact with soil, standing water, fertilisers and contaminants. Using the correct backflow prevention will help prevent this.
Fire protection may require backflow prevention. This should be reviewed and maintained by the correct professionals. Working with your plumbing and fire protection teams will help.
Planning Ahead
The easiest way to avoid many plumbing coordination issues is to plan ahead. When building or renovating take a look at your backflow requirements. This should be in line with your equipment schedule, utilities, mechanical room and tenant specific plumbing.
This will help you know where you need to install your devices, if they are easily accessible, whether you need any drainage and coordinate your pipework with other services such as electrical, HVAC and structure.
If you are working on a more complex project you can use Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). This can help you understand where your equipment will be. This can be useful if you have lots of services in your mechanical room/ceiling.
Airco Mechanical can provide pre-construction and VDC.
Preventative Maintenance
The best way for facility managers to manage backflow prevention is to include it in their preventative maintenance. Schedule your testing, visual checks, documentation and repairs.
Airco Mechanical can provide commercial plumbing and maintenance.
If you are experiencing regular pressure issues, your device is leaking/ failing or you have new equipment a professional can come and advise you on what to do.
Ensure You Have the Correct Protection
Backflow prevention is an important part of keeping your water safe. Ensuring you are running your building safely and following the correct plumbing requirements. Understanding where your cross connections are, installing the correct devices, testing and keeping your documentation up to date can help avoid any issues.
Don’t wait until your inspection fails or you have plumbing issues. Get in touch with Airco Mechanical and talk to us about our commercial plumbing services.
FAQ’s
What is Backflow Prevention?
Backflow prevention uses approved devices or separation to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into your drinking water.
How Often Should Backflow Devices be Tested in Commercial?
This will depend on your local regulations, requirements from your water providers and the type of device. Speak to your water authority or qualified tester.
What Causes Backflow Prevention Devices to Fail?
Common reasons are worn seals, debris, corrosion, freezing, pressure and incorrect installation.
Who Can Inspect/Repair My Backflow Prevention Device?
A qualified commercial plumber/backflow tester should inspect your device. They will carry out the correct tests and advise on any repairs.
