Backflow prevention devices protect your drinking water supply from contamination caused by the accidental flow of non-potable water into the potable water system. Simply put, these devices help prevent dirty water from flowing back into your taps, saving you time and money on repairs.

Suppose there is a sudden drop in pressure in the city’s main water line. In that case, it could lead to back-siphonage of contaminants such as fertilizers, pesticides, and manures through sprinkler heads and irrigation piping into your company’s drinking water. This could cause serious problems for all of your drinking, cooking, and hygiene needs.

If you’re using a sprinkler system or standpipe connected to a public water supply, ensure the system has installed backflow prevention features. This will help prevent contaminated water from contaminating drinking water supplies. 

Even if a sprinkler system connects to a non-potable water source, the potential for contamination still exists if there are any cross-connections between that system and a community’s drinking water supply. This begs the question, do I need a backflow preventer on sprinkler system?

What is a Backflow Preventer?

Backflow preventers are handy tools that have two one-way valves called check valves. This is useful because it allows the water to flow only in one direction, preventing backflow into your home or workplace. Think of a backflow prevention device as a safety barrier between raw sewage and clean drinking water. 

Besides desiring clean water, having a backflow preventer is a legal requirement in most states. In Nevada, all businesses must have backflow preventers installed. Installing one of these devices can help you avoid unnecessary legal issues.

Nevada Laws & Requirements for Irrigation Backflow Devices

The regulations related to irrigation backflow devices and preventers for the state of Nevada contain several laws. These laws are in the State’s Environmental Commission’s R049-18 and Nevada Administrative Code 445A. Section 23 of this regulation states that:

Except as otherwise provided in section 4 of this regulation, each service connection must have an assembly for the prevention of backflow, of a type that is commensurate with the degree of hazard that exists on the property of the customer of a public water system. 

Except as otherwise provided in AC 445A.67185 to 445A.67255, inclusive, and section 4 of this regulation, the assembly may consist of any one of the following, as listed in the order of least to most protection:

• A double check valve assembly
• A reduced pressure principle assembly
• An air gap

Section 4 of the regulation provides that a fire hydrant directly connected to certain water mains does not require an assembly for the prevention of backflow unless the supplier of water determines that the lack of such an assembly presents a degree of hazard to the public water system. In all other instances, an irrigation backflow device or backflow preventer is required.

Importance of Backflow Preventer on Sprinkler System

If your business is installing a sprinkler system, you must install the correct irrigation backflow device to keep drinking water and structure safe from water damage. 

When it comes time to choose the best device for your business, call Legacy Fire Services.

We are your full-service fire protection company. We specialize in consultation, design, installation, service, and inspection of overhead fire protection systems and fire extinguishers.