Clean, usable drinking water doesn’t come out of thin air. Buildings need backflow prevention as a part of their water supply system to ensure water isn’t contaminated. In addition to protecting water quality, backflow preventers keep out water damage by reversing the flow of unwanted water, pushing it away from your borough’s supply.
Even if your business uses a portable water supply, Boris Mechanical can easily install a backflow preventer with a built-in relief valve to harness the internal flow of water. Check valves, a water meter, and shutoff valves all give you the power to control when, where, and how long clean water runs.
And from a city standpoint, backflow preventers only enhance safety by implementing real ways to dispel buildup or contaminants. If you’re worried about backflow prevention assembly, Boris Mechanical can help. In NYC, we offer comprehensive services that include installation, maintenance, or inspection.
What Is a Backflow Device?
A backflow device is a device used to prevent ‘backflow’ or compromised water. Common water contaminants include bacteria from boilers, irrigation systems, fire sprinkler systems, and commercial equipment. In NYC, this is specifically important. Why? The city employs multiple internal water supply systems within a single borough or neighborhood, meaning the demand for drinkable water is that much stronger.
Although less of a concern in New York City, backflow preventers can be used with the following portable water systems:
- Irrigation and Sprinkler Systems
- Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Boiler & Hydronic Heating Systems
- Commercial Kitchen Equipment
- HVAC Systems
- Water Storage Systems
How Backflow Preventers Are Installed
Because backflow preventers are designed to remove contaminants from your existing water supply, they’re easily integrable. Your property line naturally has space for a preventer to be installed. It just takes a clear reason for installing, with common reasons being high hazard levels and clear evidence of hard water.
Backflow prevention devices are installed in accordance with city regulations. This means they require professional installation, which is a 24/7 service we offer at Boris Mechanical. Once you’ve called us to come to your commercial, residential, or rental property for quick service, we’ll follow this standardized installation process:
Site Evaluation
We start by evaluating the incoming water line. If we find that there are any present hazards stopping us from immediate installation, such as cross-connection hazards, then we’ll re-evaluate and return with a prompt installation plan.
Device Selection
Once we know whether your building is considered a high or low risk hazard-wise, we’ll recommend a backflow device. Choosing from a:
- Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ),
- Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA), or
- Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB),
we’ll find the perfect fit.
Permits & Approvals
NYC maintains strict permit and approval processes for the installation of backflow preventers. No matter if you’re pairing it with a storage tank or portable water supply, you need to ensure that your plans are submitted to the correct local agencies, most commonly the Department of Environmental Protection or DEP.
You must obtain the following permits and acquire approvals ahead of installation:
- Clear Cause for Installation: A master plumber must come on-site and either confirm or deny that you have cross connections that require backflow preventer installation.
- Hire A City Professional Engineer or Professional Architect to create a backflow prevention plan and submit it to the NYC DEP.
- Once approved, your master plumber must apply for a work permit with the Department of Buildings.
- After installation, routine inspection reports must be sent to the DEP.
- If you do not require a backflow preventer, a formal exemption request must be sent to the DEP by a Professional Architect. And if you’re not sure where to start, Boris Mechanical can help contact the necessary professionals.
Why You Need Professional Backflow Preventer Installation and Maintenance in NYC
Backflow preventers do more than just keep unwanted debris from flowing backward into your water supply. They use layered mechanisms, like shut-off valves, to discharge contaminants from all around your building: boiler runoff, sewage remnants, and subtle water supply chemicals.
Protect your floor-level water supply from contamination by enlisting a plumbing professional to install and maintain a backflow preventer today. And if you’re in NYC, get one from Boris Mechanical for the following reasons:
- City Compliance
- Property Protection
- Protect Drinking Water Quality
- Limit Health Risks
- Reduced Liability
Time for you to upgrade your preventer? Contact Boris Mechanical. We’re available in most NYC boroughs for 24/7 service, even for initial installations.
Backflow Service by Boris Mechanical
The expert plumbers at Boris Mechanical are fully certified for testing, repairing, and installing all commercial backflow prevention devices. In New York City, it’s crucial that backflow testing is carried out by a certified tester.
To comply with city regulations, the form you submit must not only be filled out by the tester but also signed by an N.Y.C. Licensed Master Plumber. These steps ensure that your property meets the necessary safety standards and avoids any potential compliance issues.
By choosing professionals who are both certified testers and licensed plumbers, you ensure that all regulatory requirements are met, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your property’s water system.
While many professional plumbers are qualified to handle most plumbing jobs, you should make sure to hire a commercial plumber who is fully certified in backflow service and prevention. They are most qualified to install and inspect your device. Whichever time you choose, know that our team is located in your area and ready to serve.