Do you have health issues from contaminated water but haven’t tried RPZ (Reduced Pressure Zone) testing? Your top priority should be to protect your water supply by complying with the annual RPZ testing requirement.
An RPZ test indicates how well your valve is performing. They function similarly to a double-check preventer in which they have two independent valves. If the independent valves fail, a transitional relief valve opens to allow any backflow of water to be evacuated.
However, this does not rule out the possibility that the RPZ system could fail; consequently, backflow tests are usually required by the New York City Municipal Government.
Backflow of Water
One of the most important aspects of plumbing is to prevent sewage backflow. It occurs when contaminants enter your water supply. When this happens to your water supply, you may experience symptoms such as cholera, dysentery, hepatitis, typhoid, or skin diseases.
The following are indicators of water backflow:
Irregular Water Pressure
This may not always indicate that your system has a backflow, but you should test your system if you observe it.
This is typically the result of faulty opening valves, a malfunctioning relief valve, or a clogged backflow preventer. It is possible that the pressure is too high or too low or that no pressure exists at all.
Discolored or Cloudy Water
You can be certain that there is a problem if your water suddenly becomes discolored and smells or tastes foul. It’s possible that your RPZ backflow preventer has developed a fault and is no longer functioning. Unfortunately, the failure of your neighbor’s backflow prevention system can also affect your water supply, even if yours is in perfect working order.
Due to this, the IEPA has mandated the installation of an RPZ backflow preventer, which protects your domestic water supply and the Village’s water distribution system from potential contamination. To schedule a service, call Paul’s Way at (631) 518-2004.
Water Leaks
It is not unusual for your backflow preventer to leak. Many pieces of equipment degrade after extended use. Unless you have experience in the field, you should not attempt to replace the broken or damaged parts on your own, as the leaks could be caused by corrosion, which would necessitate a replacement.
Allow a professional to inspect it so that you do not cause further damage to your system and endanger the public water supply.
Slow Drainage
A clog or build-up could cause slow drainage in your sinks and showers in your backflow preventer. It could also indicate that there is a backflow of water.
You can verify this by having a plumber examine the plumbing system in your home. If it is discovered that your backflow preventer has a problem, you should contact a professional to fix it as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
What to Do
If you suspect a backflow, contact a professional right away. The reduced pressure zone backflow preventer is the only remedy for this issue. It ensures that water only flows in one direction.
An RPZ backflow preventer allows water to flow freely into your property at normal pressure. The RPZ valve closes once the water has passed through the system, ensuring that no liquid flows backward.
These valves aid in monitoring water pressure, thereby ensuring a constant flow of clean water even with fluctuating pressure. If you own a carwash facility, a backflow preventer is vital.
You do not have to wait until you see some of the above-mentioned signs of backflow or until you become ill as a result of contaminated water before performing an RPZ test. Make it a priority to have professionals inspect your system for backflow on a regular basis.
Do you have a backflow problem or require a test service in New York City? To schedule a service, call Paul’s Way at (631) 518-2004 right away. Following a repair, we would also inspect your backflow devices. When you conserve water, you save yourself and possibly those around you.