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    Clean Water Plumbing & Gas > Services > Plumbing Services > Backflow Prevention

Backflow Prevention

Providing Backflow Prevention Services Across Maryland

In need of backflow prevention installation or repair? Our certified technicians are experts in backflow preventer installation and repair and we serve Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Bowie and Prince George's County, Montgomery County and Baltimore County, ensuring fast and reliable water heater services. With convenient appointment times and fully stocked trucks, we aim to restore normalcy for your family promptly. If your backflow preventer is not working properly or needs inspection, we will help you decide the best option for your home or commercial installation.

Do I Need a Backflow Preventer?

Whether you need a backflow preventer depends on your property type and local regulations. Here's a guide to help you determine if you need one:

Commercial Property: YES

Almost all US commercial and institutional properties, regardless of size, are required by state or local laws to have backflow preventers. These must also be inspected annually.

Single-Family Homes: SOMETIMES

Usually, single-family homes aren't required to have a main water supply line backflow preventer. However, if your home has an irrigation system, swimming pool, well, or another outdoor device connected to the main water line, you often need a backflow preventer. Local laws typically require an annual inspection by a certified backflow expert.

Multi-Family Homes: YES

Most multi-unit housing structures are required to have backflow preventers.

What is a Backflow Preventer and Do I Need One?

A backflow preventer is a crucial device that helps keep contaminants out of your water supply. Many people are unaware of their existence, but they are essential for protecting both your property and the community.

What Does a Backflow Preventer Do?

Backflow occurs when water flows in the wrong direction in a plumbing system, causing dirty water (such as from your lawn or bathroom) to contaminate the clean water supply. This can happen due to pressure changes, either from high pressure on your property (backpressure) or low pressure on the supply side (back-siphonage). This contamination poses serious health risks, making backflow prevention vital.

How Does a Backflow Preventer Work?

A backflow preventer is installed on your main water line and uses a series of one-way valves:

  • Check Valves: Allow clean water to flow into your home or business under normal pressure.
  • Relief Valve: Activates if back pressure or back-siphonage occurs, discharging dirty water onto the ground or into a drain (some backflow preventers, like double check-valve systems, don't have a relief valve).
  • Test Valve: Allows for periodic testing, often required annually by local regulations.

For detailed standards, refer to the American Water Works Association’s backflow preventer guidelines.

Choosing a Backflow Preventer

Various backflow prevention devices are available depending on your needs:

  • Main Backflow Preventer: Standard device for your main water line.
  • Hose Bib Backflow Preventer: Attaches to outdoor hose spigots to prevent backflow. Easy to install yourself.
  • Sewer Backflow Preventer (Backwater Valve): Installed on your sewer line to prevent sewage backups during heavy rainfall or system overflows.

Importance of Hiring the Right Plumber

Proper backflow prevention is critical for maintaining a safe water supply. Hiring a licensed plumber with backflow certification ensures correct installation and compliance with local regulations. Clean Water Plumbing and Gas specializes in backflow prevention services, offering installation, maintenance, and inspections to keep your water supply uncontaminated and safe.

Backflow Preventer Installation

Installing a backflow preventer is not a DIY project. Most places require a licensed plumber for installation due to its complexity and the risks of incorrect installation, which could contaminate your water supply. If your backflow preventer leaks or malfunctions, contact a professional plumber immediately.

Attempting DIY backflow prevention can lead to improper installation, non-compliance with safety standards, and potential water contamination. Clean Water Plumbing and Gas provides professional services to ensure your system is safe, effective, and up to code, saving you time, stress, and potential health hazards. Trust our skilled team for a secure and compliant water system.

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PROMISE TO YOU - Our 5 Star Values

So many people are receiving poor plumbing services from companies.  A lot of companies overcharge and do poor installations making customers feel taken advantage of and undervalued.  This causes a cycle of frustration and multiple callbacks.  Clean Water Plumbing & Gas will always return your phone or email request within 24 hours.

We will always give you a fair quote for your job and always communicate any changes.  We're not finished until you are satisfied.  Your installation will be covered under our satisfaction guarantee.  You will never have to worry about finding another Plumbing company again.  Your peace of mind is our priority.

Satisfied Customers is our Goal!

  • Clean Water Plumbing & Gas was great!!! James helped us out when our pipe burst from the cold weather. HIGHLY recommend them for any plumbing

    Kristi & Darin M.Crofton, MD

  • James was very easy to work with, prompt, and he did a fantastic job. I’m always happy with the work done and will be using

    Dave W.Washington D.C.

  • Amazing job on our master bath Reno. Helped us think through all the options and the final bathroom turned out amazing and on budget.

    Darren H.Eastern Shore, MD

  • Clean Water Plumbing & Gas is great!! James is very knowledgeable, reliable, and likable. Very pleasant and easy to work with. Seemed expert in his

    Rachel E.Annapolis, MD

  • I was remodeling my home before selling it. Clean Water Plumbing & Gas brought a lot of clarity and helped me get the job done

    Dominic S.Bowie, MD

  • James did a great job on our bathroom! He showed up when he said he would and finished the job in a timely manner with

    Greg B.Crofton, MD

  • Highly recommend James and Clean Water Plumbing & Gas. Needed a gas water heater replaced. Was able to get me the best deal possible and

    Adam D.Annapolis, MD

  • My dealings with Clean Water Plumbing & Gas and James was truly an amazing experience. The quality and detail of his work went well above

    John R.Bowie, MD

  • Great service, great people! Clean Water Plumbing & Gas was quick to respond to questions and flexible with the timing of the project (installing water

    Kevin R.Odenton, MD

  • I wanted to say thank you for the work James and Clean Water Plumbing & Gas did for me. He was really helpful, quick and

    April L.Crofton, MD

  • James came and saved the the day!! We had a huge leak in the basement. He was able to stop the leak and make all

    Morgan F.Bowie, MD

  • Clean Water Plumbing & Gas sent James and Zach, and they did a great job on a complicated plumbing renovation. Very professional, friendly and willing

    Barbara S.Annapolis, MD

  • Clean Water Plumbing & Gas was referred to me by a friend and he did a fantastic job and was very reasonable in price compared

    Jason W.Washington D.C.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - Water Heaters

What is backflow prevention, and why is it important?

Backflow prevention devices stop contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply, protecting your drinking water from pollutants and ensuring it remains safe.

How often should backflow preventers be inspected and tested?

It’s recommended to have backflow preventers inspected and tested annually to ensure they are functioning properly and comply with local regulations.

What are the signs that my backflow preventer needs maintenance?

Signs include changes in water pressure, unusual tastes or odors in your water, and visible leaks or damage to the preventer. Regular professional inspections can catch these issues early.

Can I install a backflow preventer myself?

Installing a backflow preventer requires specialized knowledge and adherence to local codes and regulations. It’s best to hire a licensed professional to ensure proper installation and compliance.

What should I look for when choosing a contractor for backflow prevention services?

Look for a licensed and insured contractor with experience in backflow prevention, positive customer reviews, and a clear, detailed service proposal. Ensure they use quality materials and follow local regulations.

Choosing Clean Water Plumbing and Gas for your backflow prevention needs ensures a professional, reliable service that protects your water supply and complies with all relevant standards. Contact us today to discuss your needs and find out how we can help keep your water system safe and secure.

Clean Water Plumbing & Gas LLC

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We bring our clients peace of mind with every plumbing and gas fitting installation.  Everyone deserves plumbing that works and service that values them.  And that is what Clean Water Plumbing & Gas delivers on every job.

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Master Plumber & Gas fitting Licenses:

Maryland State#: 82852
Anne Arundel County#: 5980
Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission#: 74151

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