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the (unwanted) reverse flow of water or pollutants into the distributing pipes of a potable water supply from any source other than the intended source.
Backflow Prevention Device |
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A device that prevents backflow or pollution of potable water in plumbing systems. Typical examples of backflow preventers include: pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB), Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ), Double Check Valve, Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker, Air Gap Devices, E-Gap devices, and Hose Bibs.
Standards that govern the performance and testing of Backflow Preventers; typical standards are ASSE (American Society of Sanitary Engineering), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), USC (University of Southern California Center for Hydraulic Research).
Backflow Standards for Chemical Dispensers |
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ASSE 1055, Performance Requirements for Chemical Dispensing Systems and ASME A112.1.3-2000 Air Gao Fittings for use with Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances.
The ASSE 1055 Standard issued in 1997 was subsequently adopted by the two major plumbing codes (UPC and IPC) in their 2000 revisions. Thus any state or locale where the IPC or UPC (Rev 2000 or later) plumbing codes are in use, the ASSE 1055 governs the use of chemical dispensers.
Hydro Systems Company Approved Backflow Preventers |
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Air Gap Eductors and E-Gap eductors; in these devices, approved backflow protection is built into the device. Hydro Systems E-Gap eductors are approved to meet ASSE 1055B, while Air Gap Eductors are approved to ASSE1055B and ASME A112.1.3-2000.
USA National plumbing Codes |
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Two plumbing codes are used nationally - the International Plumbing Code (IPC) written by the International Code Council (ICC) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) written by IAPMO. These two organizations market their respective codes to cities, counties, and state throughout the United States for adoption. In addition to these independent codes, some states may have their own state or local codes.
Plumbing Code Enforcement |
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Plumbing codes are enforced at the local level by plumbing inspectors who, typically, work for local governments. Local jurisdictions have the final authority on backflow acceptability and reserve the right to enforce more stringent requirements than called out in the plumbing codes.
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