AVBs are super simple to install, so most homeowners should be able to handle it themselves. Plus, since there’s minimal risk of backflow from a garden hose, there often aren’t any permits required or guidelines to follow for the installation. This can vary, though, so be sure to check local guidelines.

RPZs should never be installed by homeowners. These backflow preventers require a permit and a certified plumber to ensure they’re installed correctly and that adequate drainage is possible in the event of purging during backflow.

The Surface Drainage System represents the frontline defense against immediate water accumulation on the ground's surface. Unlike subsurface drainage methods that involve buried pipes and conduits, surface drainage is visible and focuses on directing water away from specific areas using natural slopes and constructed channels. This type of system is particularly effective in managing rainfall, preventing puddling, and safeguarding structures and landscapes from the damaging effects of stagnant water.

For those eager to delve deeper, we recommend checking out some of the comprehensive installation guides below for each drainage system type. Discover step-by-step instructions, tips from industry experts, and valuable insights that will empower you to navigate the complexities of drainage with confidence.

AVBs use a simple check valve and an air inlet valve to prevent water from flowing backward. The air inlet valve is designed to open and allow air in when the water pressure on the check valves gets too high. This introduces air into the sealed pipe, breaking the vacuum inside and preventing back-pressure and back-siphoning.

When it comes to drinking water, the last thing you want is a potentially harmful contaminant that could cause harm to you or a family member. Backflow preventers are key to maintaining safe, clean drinking water — especially in areas where non-potable water could mix with your potable water supply.

A backflow preventer is designed to stop water from traveling in both directions. It gets installed in-line and uses one-way valves or vacuums to prevent backflow. Backflow preventers come in a few designs based on how severe backflow through a particular water line would be considered.

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Downspouts and gutter systems form a vital component of surface drainage solutions, especially in residential and commercial settings. These systems are designed to efficiently collect and redirect rainwater from roofs, preventing erosion, water damage, and flooding around the foundation.

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In residential applications, downspouts and gutters are commonly found adorning houses, where they play a pivotal role in protecting siding, landscaping, and foundations from the erosive impact of rainwater runoff. In commercial contexts, these systems are equally indispensable, ensuring the longevity of structures and maintaining the integrity of expansive rooftops.

The pressure relief valve is designed to eliminate water in the plumbing pipes until the pressure is normal again — so, during backflow, it will spit water out. As such, RPZs are often installed outdoors where drainage is possible, and the risk of flooding is minimal.

AVBs are best for situations where the risk of backflow is low, and the consequences are minimal. Common uses typically include garden hoses and in-ground sprinkler systems.

Roxanne Downer is a commerce editor at Today’s Homeowner, where she tackles everything from foundation repair to solar panel installation. She brings more than 15 years of writing and editing experience to bear in her meticulous approach to ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and engaging content. She’s previously edited for outlets including MSN, Architectural Digest, and Better Homes & Gardens. An alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, Roxanne is now an Oklahoma homeowner, DIY enthusiast, and the proud parent of a playful pug.

PVBs generally require permits and need to be installed by licensed and certified plumbers. Since the risk and consequences of backflow in cases where you’d use PVBs are high and severe, most cities and states don’t allow for legal DIY installation.

Backflow preventers can purge large volumes of water to prevent backflow, so the relief valve is usually installed where water damage wouldn’t be an issue and drainage is available.

For contractors, we provide advanced techniques and industry best practices that can elevate your drainage projects to new heights of excellence. Discover innovative solutions, stay abreast of the latest technologies, and gain a nuanced understanding of regional considerations that can make a world of difference in your professional endeavors.

Four primary types stand out as pillars in this landscape: surface drainage systems, subsurface drainage systems, slope drainage systems, and downspouts & gutter systems. Each type comes with its unique advantages and considerations, tailored to meet the diverse needs of contractors crafting large-scale solutions and home DIYers enhancing their immediate surroundings.

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This guide will discuss what a backflow preventer is, what it does, the three main kinds of backflow preventers, and why you might need one in your home.

Preventing backflow is mandatory in some capacity in all states — although the specifics regarding the lengths to which you need to go to keep public water supplies safe varies based on state, county, and city. Aside from health issues, you could face monetary assessments and fines if your backflow prevention system isn’t present or isn’t up to plumbing code.

In the realm of construction and home improvement, few elements are as crucial as an effective drainage system. Whether you're a professional looking to enhance your expertise or a homeowner embarking on a do-it-yourself journey, understanding the intricacies of drainage is paramount to the longevity and functionality of any structure.

RPZs are the most effective kinds of backflow preventers, and they’re also the most expensive. They’re used in cases where the risk of backflow is high and the potential consequences are very serious. Some use cases include commercial buildings, high-occupancy buildings like apartment buildings or hotels, municipal water systems, and some fire sprinkler systems — specifically those in industrial buildings.

Check valves are usually one component inside of a backflow preventer, which is designed to resist higher pressure differences, as in the case of an irrigation system, fire sprinkler system, or main water supply. Backflow preventers can also contain high- or low-pressure chambers and relief valves to help prevent backflow even in high-risk situations.

In most cases, homes will have a backflow preventer if they have an in-ground sprinkler system. It’s usually installed above ground for easy access. It will typically have a ball valve or shut-off valve handle on it and sits between two pipe sections coming up out of the ground and turning toward each other at a 90-degree angle.

Like AVBs, PVBs are backflow prevention assemblies with a check valve and an air inlet valve to prevent backflow. However, they also use a high-pressure chamber between the two to prevent water from flowing backward. The differential is designed only to be overcome by water from the supply side and should prevent sudden spikes in pressure on the opposite end of the cross-connection.

The most recognizable components of downspout and gutter systems are the eaves troughs, which collect water from the roof's edge, and the downspouts, which guide the collected water to the ground or a designated drainage area. Various materials such as aluminum, vinyl, or steel are used to construct these systems, offering durability and resistance to corrosion. These systems can be customized to suit the architectural aesthetics of a structure, seamlessly blending functionality with design.

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Generally speaking, there are three different kinds of backflow preventers, each designed for a different severity level. The three kinds of backflow prevention assemblies include the following:

RPZs are the most complex and effective types of backflow preventers available. They use two check valves for redundancy, plus a chamber between them that sits at a lower pressure. If the pressure inside that chamber ever gets too high, which would only be caused by backflow, there’s also a pressure relief valve that will empty the chamber until the pressure on the receiving end of the cross-connection has subsided.

The core principle of subsurface drainage involves the creation of a controlled pathway for groundwater to follow, ensuring a consistent downward flow away from critical structures. Perforated pipes, often surrounded by gravel or other drainage materials, facilitate the collection of excess water, transporting it to designated outlets. Subsurface drainage is a sophisticated solution that offers long-term benefits by protecting not only surface structures but also the very foundation of landscapes from the detrimental impacts of prolonged moisture exposure.

The Slope Drainage System harnesses the natural slopes or gradients present in a landscape to guide water flow in a controlled manner. This method capitalizes on the inherent topography of an area, ensuring that water moves away from critical points through the force of gravity. Slope drainage is often integrated into the overall landscaping design, manipulating contours and grades to create a path of least resistance for water runoff. This system is especially advantageous in hilly or sloping terrains where the gravitational force can be leveraged to efficiently channel water without the need for extensive artificial structures.

Backflow preventers work by maintaining a low-pressure vacuum sealed by two check valves. If the pressure inside the low-pressure chamber gets too high — which would normally cause backflow to occur — the water gets expelled through a relief valve. The relief valve will remain open until the pressure regulates itself once again.

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We get a decent number of questions about backflow prevention devices from homeowners across the country. We’ll answer some of the most common ones we see below.

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A double-check valve assembly (DCVA) works similarly, but it use two check valves for redundancy and greater protection.

Dan Simms worked in real estate management for five years before using his experience to help property owners maintain their own homes. He got his master’s degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and he now enjoys sharing his knowledge about homeownership and DIY projects with others on Today’s Homeowner. When he’s not writing, he’s usually outdoors with his wife and his dog, enjoying mountain biking, skiing, and hiking.

From the foundations of drainage design principles to the nitty-gritty details of installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, this guide serves as your compass in navigating the waters of efficient water management.

Whether you’re uncomfortable doing the work yourself or legally need a professional to help, you can use the tool below to get connected to reputable and certified plumbers in your area.

These systems encompass an array of components, including channels, pipes, basins, and other specialized structures, strategically positioned to guide water away from critical areas. Properly designed drainage systems are tailored to the unique characteristics of their surroundings, considering factors such as topography, soil composition, and climate. Effective implementation not only prevents water-related issues but also contributes to the overall sustainability and resilience of the built environment. As we explore the nuances of drainage systems in this resource, we delve into the advantages & disadvantages of different types of drainage, catering to both professionals in the field and homeowners seeking to enhance the water management capabilities of their properties.

A backflow preventer is designed to stop water from flowing backward through your pipes. In the case of a sprinkler system, installing one can prevent harmful contaminants like fertilizers, pesticides, and bacteria from getting into your drinking water. They can also keep public water supplies from getting contaminated with dirty water.

Implementation of a slope drainage system involves careful analysis of the existing topography and strategic planning to maximize the utilization of slopes. Contour channels and terraces are common features used to direct water along predetermined pathways, preventing soil erosion and minimizing the risk of flooding. By working in harmony with the natural lay of the land, slope drainage systems offer a sustainable and visually unobtrusive solution to water management challenges.

A check valve is a simple one-way valve that prevents water from flowing backward through a pipe. These are usually installed on faucets, toilets, dishwashers, and other fixtures to prevent backflow where only a small amount of water could work its way back into your supply.

Successful water management is a blend of science, art, and practical application. Whether you're embarking on a DIY project or seeking professional insights, mastering the intricacies of drainage is an investment in the longevity and resilience of your surroundings.

On a more personal level, backflow from in-ground sprinklers could introduce pesticides, fertilizers, harmful bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants into your drinking water. Keeping your drinking water clean for your family should be your top priority, so preventing backflow into your own water is crucial.

Backflow can cause very serious health concerns for your home and, potentially, anyone connected to the same water supply. If you’re on a water well, that could mean only your immediate neighbors, but it might mean anyone in your city if you’re connected to a municipal water supply. In the case of bacterial infiltration, you could end up infecting all the water delivered to your entire city.

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Surface drainage involves the creation of slopes or gradients to guide water flow away from critical points, such as building foundations or low-lying areas prone to flooding. Additionally, channels, swales, and surface drains are strategically positioned to intercept and redirect water, ensuring a controlled path for runoff. This type of drainage system is adaptable and can be implemented in various settings, including residential yards, agricultural fields, and urban landscapes.

While most homeowners can handle installing a backflow preventer on a sprinkler system, most shouldn’t or can’t legally tackle installation if it’s done on a water main or a higher-volume supply line.

PVBs and DCVAs are typically used in cases where backflow is a medium risk. These include some residential sprinkler systems, commercial irrigation systems, and fire sprinkler systems.

Backflow preventers can also help prevent damage to your plumbing system. Sudden changes in pressure inside your pipes — which backflow preventers stop — can cause a sudden jolt to your pipes caused by pressure changes, commonly called a water hammer. Water hammer, caused by something as simple as de-winterizing your sprinkler system, can damage your plumbing, potentially leaving you with expensive repairs and costly water damage.

In stark contrast to the visible interventions of surface drainage, subsurface drainage operates discreetly beneath the ground's surface to manage water infiltrating soil layers. This system utilizes a network of perforated pipes, drain tiles, or conduits buried at varying depths to intercept and redirect excess water, preventing waterlogging and the potential for soil saturation. Subsurface drainage is particularly effective in areas with high groundwater tables, heavy clay soils, or those experiencing persistent rainfall, as it addresses water-related issues at a deeper level.

Drainage systems are engineered structures designed to manage the flow and removal of excess water from a given area, preventing waterlogging and mitigating the risk of structural damage. Whether in the context of urban infrastructure, agricultural fields, or residential properties, these systems play a pivotal role in redirecting rainwater and other runoff to designated outlets, ensuring a controlled and efficient evacuation process. The primary goal is to safeguard structures, landscapes, and environments from the potentially detrimental effects of water accumulation, such as erosion, foundation damage, and compromised soil integrity.

Backflow is a term used to describe when water flows backward through your plumbing pipes. Your water supply is designed to flow in one direction only, bringing clean water to your fixtures. When water flows backward — especially in situations where whatever is flowing backward could be contaminated — you could get potentially harmful water in your city water supply or home.