Question 1

What is a backflow preventer, and why does a home or business need one?

Accepted Answer

A backflow preventer is a plumbing device that stops water from flowing backward into the clean water supply, which can happen during a sudden drop in municipal water pressure that pulls contaminated water from a home's plumbing, irrigation system, or fixtures back toward the main line. Many jurisdictions require one on properties connected to municipal water, particularly where irrigation systems, boilers, or commercial equipment are involved. Lion's Plumbing and Heating installs backflow preventers for homes and businesses throughout Bowie, Maryland and Howard County.

Question 2

How does backflow actually happen in a plumbing system?

Accepted Answer

Backflow happens when water pressure in the main supply line drops unexpectedly, often from a water main break, firefighting activity nearby, or heavy municipal demand, creating a vacuum effect that can pull water backward from a home's plumbing, sprinkler system, or connected equipment into the clean water supply. Without a backflow preventer, this reversal can introduce contaminants like fertilizer, standing water, or chemicals into drinking water. Lion's Plumbing and Heating explains backflow risk and prevention for property owners in Bowie, Maryland.

Question 3

How often does a backflow preventer need to be tested?

Accepted Answer

A backflow preventer typically needs annual testing to confirm it is still functioning correctly, and many municipalities require this testing to be performed by a certified tester with results submitted to the local water authority. Skipping required testing can result in a notice from the utility or, in some cases, water service disruption. Lion's Plumbing and Heating provides certified backflow preventer testing for homeowners and businesses throughout Howard County, Maryland.

Question 4

What types of properties are typically required to have a backflow preventer?

Accepted Answer

Properties with irrigation systems, fire sprinkler systems, boilers, commercial kitchens, or any connection where water could mix with chemicals, fertilizer, or non-potable sources are typically required to have a backflow preventer under local code. Many municipalities also require one simply based on the type of water service a property has, regardless of specific equipment on site. Lion's Plumbing and Heating determines backflow requirements for properties throughout Bowie, Maryland and the surrounding area.

Question 5

What happens if a backflow preventer fails a test?

Accepted Answer

If a backflow preventer fails a test, it typically needs repair or replacement of the specific internal component causing the failure, such as a worn check valve or relief valve, followed by a retest to confirm the device is functioning properly before results are submitted to the water authority. Continuing to use a failed device without repair can leave a property out of compliance and at risk for contamination. Lion's Plumbing and Heating repairs and retests failed backflow preventers for property owners in Bowie, Maryland.

Question 6

Where is a backflow preventer typically installed on a property?

Accepted Answer

A backflow preventer is typically installed at the point where a property's plumbing connects to the municipal water line, often near the water meter, or at a secondary point such as where an irrigation system branches off from the main supply. The exact location depends on local code requirements and what the device is protecting against. Lion's Plumbing and Heating installs backflow preventers at the correct location for each property's setup in Howard County, Maryland.

Question 7

Can a homeowner test or repair their own backflow preventer?

Accepted Answer

Testing and repairing a backflow preventer generally requires a certified tester, since most municipalities only accept results submitted by someone with the proper certification, and the internal components require specific tools and knowledge to service correctly. Attempting a DIY repair can also void certification and leave the device non-compliant even if it appears to work. Lion's Plumbing and Heating provides certified testing and repair for backflow preventers throughout Bowie, Maryland.

Question 8

Does a backflow preventer need winterizing in cold climates?

Accepted Answer

A backflow preventer installed outdoors or in an unheated space typically needs winterizing before freezing temperatures arrive, since trapped water inside the device can freeze and crack internal components, leading to a failure or leak once temperatures rise again. Indoor units in heated spaces generally do not need this extra step. Lion's Plumbing and Heating winterizes backflow preventers for homeowners and businesses throughout Howard County, Maryland.

Backflow Preventer Services

Protecting Homes, Businesses & Public Water Systems Across Maryland & Washington, DC

Residential Backflow Preventer Services

Commercial Backflow Preventer Services

Commercial RP Backflow Preventers – Domestic Water Protection

Repair & Replacement Recommendations

Our Mission