Do You Need a Professional To Install a Backflow Preventer?

You can practice many maintenance processes on your backflow prevention equipment without the guidance of a certified technician or plumber. However, installing a new backflow preventer is much more complex and technical. For most commercial applications, you need a professional to install a backflow preventer. Read on to learn more about the technical, financial, and legal reasons why you should hire an LMP for all installation inquiries.

Why a Professional Touch Matters

Licensed master plumbers (LMPs) are highly skilled and experienced professionals within their industry—notably, nearly all LMPs are certified for backflow preventer projects and fully understand relevant plumbing codes. Therefore, hiring an LMP for commercial backflow preventer installation is highly recommended.

Since backflow prevention equipment ultimately protects potable water sources for surrounding communities and ecosystems, a skilled individual must install the device correctly on the first attempt. In fact, misalignment can cause backflow conditions and other harmful plumbing phenomena. Avoid these complications altogether by hiring a professional with experience to ensure a successful installation process.

Legal Obligation

Certain municipalities require a certified professional installer for all commercial backflow prevention projects. Usually, local governments, the DEP, and the EPA set these standards. Ultimately, these laws protect existing plumbing infrastructures from new construction projects or renovations to backflow equipment by ensuring only experienced individuals install your device.

Some of these municipalities even have restrictions on the type of maintenance you can legally conduct on your own equipment. For that reason, it’s worth researching your local rules and regulations before committing to backflow prevention projects.

The Financial Benefits

As we mentioned, misalignment can cause a plethora of backflow-preventer complications. Sometimes, those small problems become severe mechanical issues and can even render your equipment useless. For example, an improperly installed backflow preventer is more likely to experience aggressive water hammer, which can also damage surrounding plumbing infrastructure.

Of course, replacing a broken backflow preventer is much more expensive than the cost of hiring a professional installation specialist in the first place. Ultimately, the upfront investment in professional help is worth the long-term savings and peace of mind.

It’s quite obvious that, in nearly all situations, you must hire a professional to install your backflow preventer. Aside from their enhanced experience, skills, and knowledge, LMPs are typically legally required for all backflow prevention projects. Ensure the best results the first time by avoiding DIY backflow installations. And when it comes time to order new backflow parts for your system, count on our team at Backflow Direct!