Backing Backflow Prevention Valves’ Brilliance

Joe Drane

Anybody ever talk about why we have to have our sprinkler system’s backflow prevention valve tested? The answer is that San Antonio passed an ordinance several years ago that said we must all have such a valve on any irrigation system, and it must be tested. The rule says every year for everyone, but I’ve been told by the testing companies that enforcement happens every two years for residences and every year for businesses.

So why even have such a law? It’s because standing water could flow backwards into the drinking water pipes if ever the city pressure goes to zero… and it can happen when major pipes break or when demand far exceeds supply. The backflow prevention valve stops any standing water from the guy-down-the-road’s llama pen from draining back into our drinking water. And the testing proves that the valves are not failing. Several companies will do this job for about $45 (but more if you need a new valve). Contact Karen, our Activities Director, at 497-1557 for a list of company names, or check out the referral section of the website.