Whether you are looking to install a new well in your Florida backyard or are interested in learning more about well maintenance best practices, North Florida Water Systems Inc is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians have not only seen it all, but fixed it, too.

If you are worried about the risk of backflow in your residential well, this guide is for you. Here, we outline the risks, preventative measures, and solutions, providing you with the tools you need to keep your home’s water source flowing freely and without contamination.

What Is Backflow?

In short, backflow is when your well water is contaminated by the reversal of water flow somewhere in your plumbing system. This means sewage, rainwater, or another contaminated water source has somehow made its way into your internal plumbing system.

Luckily, backflow does not usually come without warning signs. If your drinking water is discolored, cloudy, or has a strange taste or smell, contact a licensed plumbing or well-water professional as soon as possible. Unmanaged backflow can damage your health, appliances, and plumbing over time, and should be addressed by a professional promptly.

What Causes Backflow?

Backflow occurs when a sudden change in pressure is accompanied by a faulty fixture or cross-connection that makes contact with a contaminated source of water. Examples include submerged garden hoses, lawn irrigation systems, and broken water valves.

Identifying the type of malfunction that is causing your plumbing problems is key to finding the best solution. There are two kinds of water pressure changes that can result in backflow contamination of your Florida well water system: backpressure and backsiphonage.

Backpressure

Backpressure occurs when your plumbing system makes contact with a high-pressure external system, such as an irrigation system or pressurized kitchen appliance. If proper check valves are not installed, this high-pressure water will attempt to stabilize by pushing back into the water supply.

Backsiphonage

Backsiphonage occurs as a result of a sudden drop in water supply. This typically happens when fire hydrants or sprinkler systems are in use, or when a major leak causes water pressure to drop suddenly. This sudden drop in pressure creates a suction effect, pulling water from outside sources, such as irrigation systems, or sewage lines, into your water supply.

Preventing & Remedying Backflow

Preventing backflow caused by backpressure is often as simple as installing breakers on exterior hoses, maintaining gaps between output pipes and sewage lines, and receiving regular visits from a professional plumber. To prevent backsiphonage, take care to make sure no external pipes in your home are connected to contaminated sources of water (don’t leave hoses in muddy water, and avoid homemade cross-connections between water sources).

If you are currently experiencing backflow, turn off your main water shutoff valve and call North Florida Water Systems Inc immediately. Try to identify the location of the backflow; is it mainly occurring in a sink, shower, or other appliance? If you can’t identify the source of the problem, don’t worry! Our plumbers will be able to troubleshoot your system to find the cause in no time.

Depending on the source of the backflow, a number of practical solutions can be installed. If the problem is associated with a specific appliance or fixture, a backflow preventer or vacuum breaker attachment may be sufficient. Furthermore, it is important to call a plumber to rule out hidden leaks, malfunctions, or faulty connections that may be the hidden cause of your property’s backflow.

How North Florida Water Systems Inc Can Help

No homeowner should have to deal with a water well emergency on their own. That’s why North Florida Water Systems Inc offers a wide range of water well inspection, repair, and maintenance services that will help you with all of your Florida water well needs. To learn more about our maintenance services and how we can help you prevent backflow in your residential well, contact us directly today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Backflow?

Backflow is a plumbing emergency in which contaminated water, such as sewage or irrigation water, flows into your plumbing system.

What Causes Backflow?

Backflow is caused by a sudden increase or drop in water pressure within your plumbing system. Examples of events that may cause backflow include sudden drops in water supply or sudden external increases in water pressure that force contaminated water into your pipes.

What Is A Backflow Preventer?

Backflow preventers are safety devices that prevent water from flowing backwards into your water supply. They are usually installed on spigots and outdoor irrigation systems.

Can Backflow Contaminate A Private Well?

Yes. Backflow can contaminate all kinds of water sources, not just those connected to municipal water.