Backflow prevention equipment keeps potable water supplies clean and safe, ensures the protection of community health and well-being, and safeguards surrounding environments and ecosystems. Read on to learn when you should replace your commercial backflow preventer, as well as alternative solutions that don’t involve a complete replacement.
General Rule of Thumb
Barring any unforeseen damages or complications, backflow preventers boast impressive lifespans. Commercial-grade devices typically remain functional and high in quality for decades! Non-testable DCVAs (double-check valve assemblies), commonly used for industrial fire suppression systems, require a rebuilding or replacement every 5 years. Basically, a certified tester will determine whether minor components can benefit from repairs or if a total replacement is in order.
Reduced Pressure Zone assemblies, or PRZs, are typically applicable for water and irrigation service lines. They last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. To ensure that property owners are frequently aware of their backflow preventer conditions and potential lifespan, you should get yearly inspections of these devices.
Signs Indicating Assembly Replacement
Sometimes, outside factors negatively impact and reduce the overall lifespan and efficacy of your backflow prevention equipment. As such, there are many signs you can look out for that indicate your assembly requires immediate replacement. For instance, smelly or discolored fluids emitting from your faucets often suggest water contamination stemming from existing backflow conditions. Basically, your device isn’t protecting potable water supplies properly.
Additionally, leaking water around your backflow prevention device and slow drainage throughout your property are other clear signs of equipment complications requiring replacement services. Unfortunately, these issues can occur at any point in your preventer’s lifespan, making these incidents quite unfavorable and annoying.
Alternatives To Complete Replacement
Luckily, complete device replacement isn’t always the most practical solution for solving equipment complications. In fact, the most affordable and quickest services are often the most effective. For example, uneven water pressure within your backflow preventer (a common occurrence) typically indicates issues with the valve components of your device.
Instead of wasting money, time, and labor on replacing your preventer, consider purchasing a high-quality replacement valve. In most cases, this simple fix completely enhances equipment performance and effectiveness. As stated before, annual testing ensures you always know the appropriate time to rebuild or replace your assembly.
Knowing when you should replace your commercial backflow preventer protects your health and the well-being of the surrounding community and the nearby ecosystem. Once you’ve determined the specific complication, ensure you avoid mistakes when ordering replacement backflow parts!
