Introduction
Clean water is something we take for granted, until something goes wrong. One of the biggest threats to your water supply isn’t always obvious: backflow. It happens when contaminated water flows in the wrong direction, entering your clean water lines.
This can cause serious health concerns for homeowners and businesses, especially in areas like Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley, where plumbing systems must handle both seasonal shifts and heavy usage. At On Tap Solutions, we regularly install and service backflow prevention systems to keep our clients safe. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Backflow?
Backflow occurs when water flows backward into the potable (clean) water supply. Normally, your plumbing is designed to keep water moving in one direction, from the main line into your home or building. But when pressure changes inside the system, water can reverse course.
There are two main types of pressure that cause backflow:
- Backpressure: When pressure inside your system exceeds the pressure in the supply line (common in heating or irrigation systems).
- Backsiphonage: When a drop in pressure in the main supply line sucks water from your pipes back into the system (often caused by a burst pipe or use of fire hydrants nearby).
Both situations can pull contaminated water, like fertilizers, chemicals, or wastewater—into your drinking water.
Why Backflow Is Dangerous
The main risk of backflow is contamination. If dirty water enters your home’s clean water line, it could contain:
- Pesticides or fertilizers from lawn irrigation systems
- Bacteria or viruses from toilet backflow
- Chemicals from boilers or industrial systems
- Dirty water from hoses left submerged in pools or buckets
Even a small backflow event can result in serious illness or exposure to harmful substances. For businesses, especially restaurants, clinics, or commercial buildings—this can also result in liability issues, health code violations, and forced closures.
Where Backflow Can Happen
Backflow isn’t limited to big buildings or commercial systems. It can happen anywhere water systems are connected to a potential source of contamination.
Common risk areas include:
- Irrigation systems
- Outdoor hose bibs
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Boilers and heating systems
- Commercial dishwashers
- Medical or dental equipment
Homes with extensive landscaping or outdoor water features may also be at higher risk, especially if backflow preventers are missing or outdated.
What Is a Backflow Preventer?
A backflow preventer is a plumbing device that stops water from flowing backward into the main water supply. It acts like a one-way gate, letting water in but never back out.
Types of backflow prevention devices:
- Air gap: A physical space (usually in sinks or tanks) between the water source and potential contaminants
- Check valve: A mechanical valve that allows water to flow one way only
- Reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assembly: A more advanced system for high-risk areas, often required in commercial buildings
These devices are often required by building codes for certain plumbing setups. In some cities, annual testing is also mandatory, especially for businesses.
Do You Need a Backflow Preventer?
If you have any of the following, you likely need backflow protection:
- A lawn irrigation system
- A commercial or industrial building
- A fire suppression system
- A boiler or hydronic heating system
- An outdoor hose that could be submerged in a pool or container
Even if your home or business isn’t required by law to have one, installing a backflow preventer is still a smart move, especially if you want to protect your water and avoid contamination.
Signs You May Have a Backflow Problem
Backflow doesn’t always come with warning signs, but here are a few red flags:
- Discoloured or rusty tap water
- A foul smell coming from faucets
- Sediment or particles in your water
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Unusual taste in drinking water
If you notice any of these, turn off the water and contact a plumber immediately. It’s not worth taking chances when your health is on the line.
How On Tap Solutions Can Help
We provide complete backflow services for homes and businesses across Abbotsford and the Lower Mainland:
- Backflow preventer installation
- Annual testing and certification (for commercial buildings)
- Repairs and maintenance
- System inspections for code compliance
Whether you’re dealing with an older system or building a new one, our licensed team will help you stay protected and up to code. We take water safety seriously, because your health depends on it.
Final Thoughts
Backflow might not be something you think about every day, but when it happens, the consequences are serious. Protecting your water supply doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A simple device, properly installed and tested, can keep contaminated water out of your pipes and give you peace of mind.
If you’re not sure whether your home or building has proper backflow protection, On Tap Solutions can take a look. We’ve helped homeowners, landlords, and business owners across the Fraser Valley fix hidden risks before they become major problems.
Contact us today to schedule a backflow inspection or learn more about protecting your plumbing system.
