How will a backflow preventer affect my plumbing system?
A backflow preventer may create a slight decrease in pressure, however,
in our area, the water pressure is typically high and actually requires a
pressure reducing valve. So, a slight decrease in pressure should not be
a problem.

If you have a water heater tank, the installation of a thermal expansion tank
will be required. With a backflow preventer installed on the water line
coming into your building, expanded water from a water heater cannot return
to the potable water supply. It is now a “closed” system. The water in your
tank, as it expands from heat, will have nowhere to go. The solution is a
thermal expansion tank. More on this subject is available in a pamphlet
entitled “Protect Your Water Heater from Thermal Expansion” available from
the Cross Connection Control Program.

Show All Answers

1. What is a cross connection?
2. Why do such cross connections exist?
3. What is a Cross Connection Control Program?
4. What is backflow?
5. What is a backflow preventer?
6. Why would backflow need to be prevented?
7. How will a backflow preventer affect my plumbing system?
8. Why do backflow assemblies need to be tested periodically?
9. Will my water service be interrupted for backflow prevention assembly testing?
10. How much will it cost to have my backflow prevention assembly installed and tested?