New CCPIA Article: Backflow Preventers at Commercial Properties

Backflow Preventers at Commercial Properties - Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association

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Thanks for this, Maggie.

In my area the local utility is doing the rounds, checking for backflow devices and sending correction letters to owners. Unfortunately some property owners follow the utility instructions and install one of these:

But neglect to handle expansion on the other side of the valve. All manner of water heaters, boilers and solar thermal systems have expanding water that causes no harm against the City water pressure, but with a backflow system results in overpressure inside the building.

Again, the water utility does not care.

But I’m seeing this periodically on back pressure retrofitted buildings. Something else to watch out for…