Backflow Preventers:  An Important Part of a Fire Sprinkler System

In the news lately, there have been concerns about how safe our public drinking water is. Keeping our water wells safe is one of the main reasons for a backflow preventer, an important device for any domestic and irrigation supplies, including your automatic fire sprinkler system.

You’ve probably noticed a backflow preventer outside a building before. They’re the large, arched metal pipes. But even if you don’t have a fire sprinkler system, you should be concerned if there is a backflow preventer on a building near you. Why? Backflow preventers provide a crucial interface between a building’s fire protection system and the water supply that feeds it. A backflow preventer is designed to ensure that water inside the fire sprinkler system flows in one direction only – from the water main to the overhead fire sprinkler system. This is necessary to prevent any potential cross-contamination that can occur when water from the fire sprinkler system flows backward into the water main, carrying with it potential hazardous material into the public’s drinking water supply. The water can also become stagnant with bacteria when held inside the sprinkler piping system.

It’s also very important to have a professional handle all testing, as improper testing can lead to damage of the assemblies. Annual testing is a code requirement on all backflow devices and is something we do for clients on a scheduled basis. Testing takes about 15 minutes on most systems.

Whether it’s an overhead fire sprinkler system in your home, building or other large structure, making sure your system is checked and functioning is an important part of keeping your property and yourself safe if a fire is to occur. So mark your calendar annually to get this done! QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. Trust the experts at All West Fire & Security for smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.