5 Backflow Replacement Parts You Should Have on Standby

Plumbing issues and complications are very annoying, disruptive, and, most unfortunately, expensive to rectify. However, you can alleviate some of this heartache by having backup components ready for installation following an emergency. Here are the five backflow replacement parts you should always have on standby.

Relief Valve (With Sensing Line)

Owners of an RPZ assembly have a relief valve attached to the main body of their backflow prevention device. A sensing line that can read differences in water pressure controls this relief valve. The sensing line also bypasses backflowing liquids if necessary. RPZs with malfunctioning relief valves and sensing lines are more likely to suffer backflow conditions. We at Backflow Direct encourage RPZ backflow preventer owners to order an extra relief valve (with a sensing line) for potential emergencies. These components are a bit more expensive than others on this list but exceptionally important concerning backflow prevention and community protection.

Proper Rubber Kit

A rubber kit contains replacement rubber seals for your specific backflow preventer assembly and manufacturer. Rubber seals help create an air-tight lock when valves are activated, eliminating slip-through backflow and pipeline leakage. Ensure you find a rubber kit with the proper components for your existing backflow prevention device, considering elements like size.

Adapters

Pipe adapters are helpful plumbing parts that either extend or end a pipeline run. Furthermore, adapters feature specialized fittings on each end to connect dissimilar components. Without adapters, pipelines would be overtly vulnerable to misalignment, leakage, breakage, and other complications. As such, you should always have extra adapters available to replace faulty pipeline connections and endings.

Couplers

Couplers are very similar to adapters—they connect or terminate pipeline runs and protect your plumbing infrastructure from many significant complications like misalignment and leakage. However, standard couplers only work by joining similar components. We recommend stocking up on properly-sized flex couplers for new construction projects and temporary repairs or renovations. Flex couplers are often compatible with multiple pipeline connections and are ideal for troubleshooting plumbing and backflow issues.

First and Second Check Valves for DCVAs

There are many differences between RPZ and DC assemblies, but the most significant one relates to the specific mechanisms in each device. As their name suggests, double-check valve assemblies feature two check valves that effectively prevent back siphonage and backpressure backflow. These spring-loaded components are crucial, as DCVAs also lack a proper relief valve. Ultimately, you don’t want one or multiple of these valves failing – that’s why we always recommend having a few extra check valves in storage for potential backflow situations and device complications.

These five replacement backflow parts should always be on standby to ensure quick and easy repair processes. Check out our selection of quality components here at Backflow Direct. Our friendly team can help you find the ideal equipment and products for your existing plumbing and backflow prevention infrastructure.