What is a Backflow Preventer?

November 17, 2015 by Jaxon Hukari

A Backflow Prevention Device, or Backflow Preventer, is used to protect potable water supplies from contamination or pollution due to backflow (the unwanted flow of water in the reverse direction).

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When a water main bursts, pipes freeze or there is unexpectedly high demand on the water system, the pressure reduction in the pipe may allow contaminated water from the ground, from storage or from other sources to be drawn up into the system.

 

A backflow preventer is a safe guard for the supply line, blocking contaminated water from entering the system.

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Figure 1 A RPZ BFP at the Girls School of Austin

 

For information on municipal codes and regulations regarding backflow prevention devices, visit AustinTexas.gov

 

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Written by Jaxon Hukari

Jaxon Hukari

Jaxon Hukari is a Civil Designer for BIG RED DOG in Austin, joining the team in October of 2014. He holds a Bachelor’s of Art from Texas State University, and an Associate’s in Computer Aided Design from ACC. Mr. Hukari brings CAD support to our team, and is supporting efforts for multiple single family subdivisions as well as multifamily design work. In his free time, Jaxon enjoys camping, playing golf, and spending time with his wife Audrey.