When it comes to safeguarding your home or business’s water supply, backflow prevention is one of the most crucial—yet often overlooked—components. At Auger Pros Plumbing, we specialize in Backflow Testing, Prevention, and Repair, proudly serving the entire Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area with expert-level service and decades of experience.
Water contamination due to backflow isn’t just a plumbing issue—it’s a serious health hazard. Let’s dive into what backflow is, why it happens, and how our licensed plumbers at Auger Pros Plumbing can help you stay protected and code-compliant.
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow in a plumbing system. Instead of clean water flowing into your home or business, used or contaminated water can be siphoned or pushed backward into the potable water supply. This can introduce harmful substances like bacteria, chemicals, pesticides, or even sewage into your drinking water.
There are two primary causes of backflow:
This happens when there’s a sudden drop in water pressure in the main supply line—such as during a water main break, heavy usage (like fire hydrants), or line flushing. The pressure drop can create a vacuum, sucking contaminated water backward into the clean water system.
Occurs when the pressure within your home or business plumbing exceeds the pressure in the municipal water system. This can be caused by booster pumps, heating systems, or elevated storage tanks. When this happens, contaminated water can be forced back into the public supply line.
Without the right preventive systems in place, everyday plumbing fixtures—like garden hoses, irrigation lines, toilets, or commercial equipment—can become contamination sources. The risk is especially high in:
At Auger Pros Plumbing, we help prevent these risks by installing and maintaining certified backflow prevention devices.
Here are the most common devices used to prevent backflow—and where they’re typically installed:
The most basic form of protection. It’s a physical space (usually vertical) between a faucet or valve and the area where water collects. For example, your kitchen faucet has an air gap above the sink to prevent sink water from flowing back into the pipes.
A one-way valve that stops water from reversing flow when a pressure drop occurs. Commonly installed on hose bibs or outdoor faucets.
A more advanced version of the AVB. Ideal for irrigation systems, a PVB includes a spring-loaded check valve and an air inlet that opens when pressure drops, preventing back-siphonage.
This device uses two check valves to prevent water from flowing backward. It’s commonly used in sprinkler systems, fire lines, and certain commercial applications where the contamination risk is moderate.
The most protective and reliable form of backflow prevention. RPZs include multiple valves and a relief chamber that vents to the outside when pressure drops. Required in high-risk situations like hospitals, labs, and facilities handling chemicals.
At Auger Pros Plumbing, our technicians are fully licensed to install, repair, and test all types of backflow devices and are trained in the latest safety and compliance standards.
Warning signs that your plumbing system may be experiencing backflow include:
If you notice any of these, contact our team immediately. We’ll perform a detailed inspection and water quality test.
Auger Pros Plumbing is a recognized leader in Backflow Testing and Repair across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Our licensed professionals:
We stay up to date with all local plumbing codes so you don’t have to worry about compliance or violations.
If you’re unsure whether your home or business is protected, or if your annual testing is due, call Auger Pros Plumbing today. We’re here to provide expert advice, timely service, and full peace of mind.
📍 Serving: All of Dallas, Allen, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Arlington, and beyond
📞 Call Now: 214‑206‑6580
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Protect your water. Protect your health. Trust the DFW leaders in backflow prevention—Auger Pros Plumbing.