In December 1983, in a wastewater treatment plant in San Antonio, a mix up in maintenance related activities caused a nasty backflow into the facility’s potable water. Contaminated water caused eight employees to fall ill, though they recovered. Backflow, which is the unwanted flow of water or liquid in the reverse direction, can be a major health risk. It can also cause a financial burden, like in the case of a meatpacking plant that ruined $2 million worth of meat by spraying it with contaminated water. Even though dozens of similar cases have been documented throughout the decades, many businesses still do not have proper precautions to prevent such incidents. That’s why we at Wyler Industrial Works thought to shine a little more light on the problem of backflow.

Backflow Causes

Backflow is caused by a disparity in pressure. In a normal system, the supply pressure is greater than the system pressure, causing liquids to flow in one direction. Backflow will occur when there’s either back pressure or back siphonage. Back pressure simply means that system pressure has increased to be higher than the supply pressure. If there isn’t sufficient pressure to drive the system, the liquid will flow in the opposite direction. Back siphonage is the opposite—it occurs when the supply pressure is lowered in some way. 

Backflow Consequences

Like the two opening examples would suggest, backflow can pose a serious problem for any business. Backflow contamination from HVAC, poultry farms, contaminated ponds, and many more places all highlight how a mistake can ruin potable water for a company or house, and contaminate the public water supply. Dangerous chemicals can make you and the population around you extremely ill, so it’s best to have a system in place to prevent backflow. Wyler Industries has the backflow system to fit your needs, and the technicians to make sure it’s installed properly. 

Backflow Prevention You Can Trust

Here at Wyler Industries, we know all too well the dangers of backflow. That’s why we have certified backflow technicians that can prevent backflow, and keep your water, employees, and bank account safe. Contact us to see what we can do for you!