A backflow preventer is a safety device that keeps contaminated water from reversing direction and entering your clean drinking water. Central New Jersey has many irrigation systems, wells, boilers, fire suppression systems, and commercial buildings that can create pressure changes in the plumbing. When pressure drops or reverses, water can flow the wrong way. A backflow preventer stops that from happening, which protects your water and keeps you compliant with local and state regulations.

You can usually spot one near your irrigation system, boiler, or main water connection. It looks like a brass or metal device with valves, test ports, and a distinctive shape. If you are not sure whether you have one or where it is located, we can check during a service call and identify the exact model and testing requirements. Many homeowners do not know they have one until a township letter arrives asking for annual testing.

Changes in water pressure, unusual tastes or odors, dripping from the device, or water pooling around the assembly are early warning signs. A backflow preventer can also fail testing if internal parts get worn or clogged with mineral buildup, which is common in areas with hard water like ours. Routine testing and maintenance help catch issues early so your water stays safe.

Yes, it can. Backflow happens when water pressure suddenly drops and the water in your system gets pulled in the wrong direction. A famous real world example occurred in Italy when a house with an open faucet and a hose in a bucket of red wine experienced a pressure drop. The wine actually siphoned back into the municipal water line and came out of neighbors’ taps. It was funny for five minutes, then very much not funny. A backflow preventer is what stops strange things like that from making their way into your drinking water.

Yes, permits are required because backflow prevention is directly tied to public health and water safety. The device must be installed by someone licensed to perform this work and it must pass inspection and annual testing. We take care of filing the permit and completing the installation, and we send clear instructions on how to handle the yearly testing requirement so you stay compliant.