Backflow Prevention

Gaithersburg Backflow Prevention

Nearly Three Decades of Quality Service in Maryland

Backflow is the unintentional reversal of the flow of water through your plumbing system, which allows stale water to mix with the fresh drinking water supply. Backflow preventers are generally found on appliances such as boilers, radiators, and shower heads, and you can have backflow valves installed. Mallick Plumbing & Heating, Inc. provides backflow prevention in Gaithersburg and surrounding areas of Maryland.

If you have questions about backflow prevention or want to learn more about your options, call (301) 804-6759 to speak with a knowledgeable staff member. 

Causes of Backflow

While relatively uncommon, backflow occurs more often than most people think. Generally, it is caused by either an increase in pressure on the wastewater side of the plumbing system or a drop in pressure on the supply side, which is the most common.

The supply side pressure may drop suddenly due to:

• A broken water main
• Increased demand on the water supply as a result of firefighting efforts
• A widespread power outage
• Plumbing work requiring draining the entire house
• New equipment causing a significant pressure change

Regardless of the cause, the last thing you want is wastewater in the drinking water supply. The places where backflow is most likely to occur include plumbing fixtures such as handheld shower heads, appliances such as boilers and radiators, and lawn irrigation systems. The water from these appliances can flow backward due to pressure changes.

Call us at (301) 804-6759 today to schedule backflow prevention service with one of our licensed and trained technicians. 

Backflow Prevention

Our experienced plumbers offer solutions for backflow prevention in Gaithersburg. One device is a check valve that is installed to prevent water from flowing in the opposite direction, and there are other types of backflow preventers available. We have certified backflow testers to serve residential and commercial customers and all backflow prevention installation, repair, and maintenance services are performed according to current regulations and best practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is backflow, and why is prevention important?
Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows backward into your clean water supply, often due to changes in pressure. Backflow prevention devices protect your drinking water from pollutants, chemicals, and harmful bacteria.

2. Do I need to have my backflow preventer tested?
Yes. Most municipalities require annual testing of backflow prevention devices to ensure they are functioning properly. Regular testing helps protect public health and keeps you in compliance with local plumbing codes.