Pipe repairs are an essential part of every building’s and city’s regular maintenance routines. They help to prevent leaks, floods, and other plumbing issues from causing long-term damage to the property. However, pipe repairs can also be a risky process that may lead to backflow, which can cause contamination of the water supply and other hazards. As a result, it is important to take precautions to prevent backflow during pipe repairs. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the ways to prevent backflow during pipe repairs.
What Is Backflow?
Before we can talk about tips for preventing it, we first need to address what exactly backflow is. It’s when the flow of non-potable water or other substances into the potable water supply due to a reversal in the normal flow direction. This problem can happen when the pressure in the potable water supply drops below that of the non-potable water or other substances. While this can happen naturally, its occurrence is more common during routine repairs. It’s up to you to prevent backflow during pipe repairs and ensure that backflow doesn’t lead to contamination of the potable water supply.
Methods for Stopping Backflow
The first set of suggestions we have for you are methods that should prevent backflow from even being a possibility. The following are the best ways to keep the integrity of your pipeline safe during repairs, so you should try to utilize them if at all possible.
Use a Backflow Preventer
One of the most effective ways to prevent backflow during pipe repairs is to use a backflow preventer. A backflow preventer is a device you can install within in the plumbing system to prevent the reverse flow of non-potable water or other substances into the potable water supply. It works by closing a valve when the pressure in the potable water supply drops, preventing the backflow of non-potable water or other substances.
Isolate the Affected Area
Another effective strategy is to isolate the area being worked on if possible. You can do this by closing valves on both sides of the repair site. This action creates a contained section in which the repair can take place, effectively separating it from the rest of the water distribution system and minimizing the possibility of backflow. When using this strategy, it is important to carefully plan the repair and methodically shut down each valve in sequence to avoid any unnecessary pressure buildup or potential backflow.
Implement Pressure-Reducing Valves
The use of pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) is an additional method to consider when working to prevent backflow during pipe repairs. A PRV functions by reducing the pressure in a pipe to a predetermined, safe level, which can protect your system from backflow caused by excessive pressure surges. When selecting a PRV, choosing one with the appropriate pressure rating for your system is crucial to ensure the correct operation and optimal protection.
Use Air Gaps
You can also try using air gaps to prevent backflow during pipe repairs. Essentially, an air gap acts as a physical barrier, creating a clear separation between the non-potable water or other substances and the potable water supply. By introducing a space between the systems, the air gap establishes a robust defense mechanism, ensuring that there is no chance of harmful substances contaminating the potable water supply. This additional layer of protection adds an extra level of assurance when it comes to maintaining the purity and safety of the water we rely on.
Ways To Make Backflow Less Likely To Occur
This section will cover some tips and tricks to either make backflow less likely to occur during repairs or make it less dangerous if it does. These suggestions work best when paired with the methods mentioned above, so be sure to use them in tandem when able.
Choose the Right Repair Method
Every repair process starts with choosing the repair method you plan to use. In general, repair methods that require the removal of a section of the pipe aren’t worthwhile, as they can increase the risk of backflow. Instead, opt for repair methods that involve lining the existing pipes or inserting a pipe within a pipe, as they allow the liquid to continue moving to its destination.
Ensure the Proper Disposal of Waste
One thing you should try to do during repairs is properly dispose of waste in your system. While this method doesn’t stop backflow, it will stop the contamination of clean water if backflow does occur. When using this method, you must properly dispose of any non-potable water or other substances you remove from the system during pipe repairs. You can achieve this by using a sump pump to move the waste water out of the system and into a designated waste container.
Follow Industry Standards and Regulations
Following industry standards and regulations is crucial when maintaining and repairing plumbing systems. Different jurisdictions have different regulations to prevent backflow based on their unique conditions and systems. For example, the International Plumbing Code (IPC) requires installing backflow prevention devices in plumbing systems. Following such regulations helps to ensure that plumbing systems are safe and meet minimum requirements to prevent backflow.
Train Staff Properly
Properly trained staff can help prevent backflow during pipe repairs. Staff who understand the importance of backflow prevention and have training in the correct procedures can contribute to the safety and success of the plumbing system. Proper training ensures that staff knows how to identify potential hazards and rectify them if they occur. Training should include the correct use of backflow prevention devices as well as proper testing and maintenance procedures.
Consult With Plumbing Professionals
Finally, if you don’t have the time or manpower to ensure the stoppage of backflow yourself, consult with pipeline professionals to gain valuable insights into preventing backflow during pipe repairs. Experienced line stop contractors such as those at Rangeline can help identify the best backflow prevention devices for a specific plumbing system and offer other recommendations to prevent backflow.
We have many years of experience dealing with different types of plumbing systems and can offer tailored solutions to each system’s unique requirements. With us assisting with your pipeline maintenance process, you can rest easy knowing that there won’t be any backflow in your system.
