Frequently Asked Questions

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of water or other substances through a cross-connection and into the piping of a public water system or consumer’s water system. There are two types of backflow, backpressure and backsiphonage.

Backpressure backflow is backflow caused by a downstream pressure that is greater than the upstream or supply pressure in a public water system or consumer’s potable water system.

Backpressure (i.e., downstream pressure that is greater than the potable water supply pressure) can result from an increase in downstream pressure, a reduction in the potable water supply pressure, or a combination of both. Increases in downstream pressure can be created by pumps, temperature increases in boilers, etc.

Reductions in potable water supply pressure occur whenever the amount of water being used exceeds the amount of water being supplied, such as during water line flushing, fire fighting, or breaks in water mains.

Automatic fire sprinklers are individually heat-activated, and tied into a network of piping with water under pressure.

When the heat of a fire raises the sprinkler temperature to its operating point (usually 165ºF), a solder link will melt or a liquid-filled glass bulb will shatter to open that single sprinkler, releasing water directly over the source of the heat.

The most important thing to do to keep your fire sprinkler in good shape is to have it inspected by a certified fire safety professional once a year.

Frequent fire sprinkler inspections will help catch any problems with your system. In addition, fire sprinkler system maintenance will usually lower insurance premiums.