Backflow Preventers in VT, NY & NH

The Role of Backflow Preventers in Fire Suppression Systems

The water flowing into a residential or commercial property should only flow in one direction. When a municipal water line experiences a loss of water pressure, a backflow preventer keeps pressurized fire sprinkler water lines from flowing back into the water line, preventing the possible pollution of the municipal water system.

A backflow preventer plays an essential role in a fire suppression system, just like fire sprinkler systems and other equipment supplied by a potable water system do. It keeps water clean and safe for your building’s occupants and anyone else who shares the same public water system.

The Vermont Division of Fire Safety regulations requires every business to install backflow preventers on automatic fire sprinkler systems. To ensure adequate protection for its water supply, each business must also make sure its backflow preventer is regularly inspected and tested to meet local and state codes.

Firetech Sprinkler Corp. provides comprehensive backflow system services, including design, installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance for all types of fire sprinkler systems in commercial and industrial facilities. For over 30 years, we’ve served businesses and industries throughout Vermont, northeastern New York, and beyond.

We also offer sprinkler system installation and related services for homes, including one- and two-family dwellings as well as multi-family properties.

Call 802-655-1800 to request fire sprinkler and backflow preventer services in Vermont, northeastern New York, and New Hampshire.

Backflow System Inspection, Testing & Maintenance

Both fire sprinkler systems connected to public water supplies or those using chemicals like antifreeze are serious concerns for public water safety if backflow occurs.

Approved backflow preventers meet the requirements of multiple testing agencies such as the American Water Works Association, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American National Standards Institute, American Society of Sanitary Engineers, the Factory Mutual Research Corporation, and UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratory).

Sprinkler and chemical suppression systems require inspections at least once a year, and it’s a good idea to have the backflow preventer inspected and tested by a certified contractor at the same time. This keeps your backflow system operating correctly and keeps contaminated water, bacteria, chemicals, natural gas, and other hazardous substances from contaminating the water supply.

The most common problems with backflow systems are:

• Faulty backflow preventers and valves
• Leaking gaskets, seals, and other components
• Leaking pipes
• Damaged flanges

Annual backflow prevention testing and maintenance, as required by the National Fire Protection Association, helps prevent water contamination that can be harmful to people and the environment.

Firetech’s trained experts provide testing and inspection services for all backflow systems, ensuring your system works properly and helping you avoid fines for noncompliance and interrupted water supply. Our New England Water Works Association-certified technicians are also equipped to repair backflow preventers when necessary.

Call Firetech Sprinkler Corp. today at 802-655-1800 to learn more about our backflow preventer inspection, testing, and maintenance services.

Backflow System Installations

Whether you’re upgrading or replacing an existing backflow preventer or installing a new backflow preventer, Firetech Sprinkler Corp.’s reliable team will help you choose the best type of backflow system for your needs.

We also tailor-design sprinkler systems that comply with all federal, state, and local codes while adequately meeting your specific water demands. 

Call 802-655-1800 to request fire sprinkler and backflow preventer services in Vermont, northeastern New York, and New Hampshire.

Schedule Backflow System Services

There’s no more dependable source than Firetech Sprinkler Corp. for ensuring your backflow system consistently operates the way it should to keep your water protected.

Our 30-plus years of experience in Vermont, northeastern New York, and beyond makes us the area’s most trusted source for fire protection services, including backflow preventer inspection, testing, installation, and repair. You can depend on us to keep your potable water supply free from contamination.

Backflow Preventer FAQs

What is backflow?

Backflow is a plumbing term that refers to the unwanted flow of water in the reverse direction. Backflow can be a serious health risk if potable water supplies become contaminated with non-potable water.

That’s why building codes will often mandate backflow prevention devices and other measures to prevent backflow from happening.

How does a backflow preventer work?

There are various types of backflow prevention devices for fire sprinkler systems. The most basic way one of these devices prevents backflow is with an air gap that either keeps a cross-connection from occurring or provides a barrier to any backflow.

Some backflow prevention devices use a mechanical barrier to prevent backflow, but there are many other types that use different methods or a combination of methods to prevent backflow. 

Contact Firetech Sprinkler Corp. at 802-655-1800 to schedule an appointment for any of our backflow system services.