Backflow Preventers
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Apollo Valves 3/4" Bronze Backflow Preventer Check Valve, Lead-Free (MPN: 4ALF3A44A)SKU: 1946638$55.63 24% off $73.18 -
WATTS 3/4" x 3/4" Backflow Preventer, Brass Dual Check Valve, Lead Free (MPN: 72204)SKU: 1982662$76.67 7% off $82.05 -
Apollo Valves Backflow Preventer – 2" Bronze Check Valve, Pressure Reducing, Lead-Free, 175 PSI (MPN: 4ALF208A2F)SKU: 1944960$1,052.18 31% off $1,518.09 -
Apollo Valves 3/4" Bronze Backflow Preventer Check Valve, Pressure Reducing, Lead-Free (MPN: 4ALF204A2F)SKU: 1944962$453.70 30% off $649.85 -
Apollo Valves Backflow Preventer – 1" Bronze Check Valve, Pressure Reducing, Lead-Free, 175 PSI, Standard (MPN: 4ALF205A2F)SKU: 1944961$465.28 32% off $684.08 -
Apollo Valves Backflow Preventer – 1" Bronze Dual Check Valve, Lead-Free, 175 PSI, Standard (MPN: 4ALF105A2F)SKU: 1944965$299.24 22% off $384.11 -
WATTS Backflow Preventer – 3/4" Brass Valve with Vent, FNPT x FNPT, 175 PSI (MPN: 61888)SKU: 2175$135.14 26% off $181.49 -
Apollo Valves Backflow Preventer – 2" Bronze Dual Check Valve, Lead-Free, 175 PSI, Standard (MPN: 4ALF108A2F)SKU: 1945070$791.55 24% off $1,040.63 -
Sioux Chief Backflow Preventer – 2" PVC Backflow Water Valve (MPN: 869-2P)SKU: 1912300$27.53 26% off $37.35 -
Apollo Valves 1/2" Bronze Backflow Preventer Check Valve with Vent, Lead-Free (MPN: 4ALF4A33AM)SKU: 1945941$81.21 22% off $104.37 -
Apollo Valves Backflow Preventer – 1-1/2" Bronze Check Valve, Pressure Reducing, Lead-Free, NPT, 175 PSI (MPN: 4ALF207A2F)SKU: 1944959$917.03 33% off $1,359.59 -
Apollo Valves 1" Bronze Backflow Preventer Check Valve, Lead-Free (MPN: 4ALF3A55A)SKU: 1944963$59.44 30% off $84.46 -
Apollo Valves 1/2" Bronze Backflow Preventer Check Valve, Lead-Free (MPN: 4ALF3A33A)SKU: 1944964$53.23 21% off $67.63 -
Sharkbite 1" Bronze Backflow Preventer Dual Check Valve, Lead-Free (MPN: BF10101)SKU: 1964313$53.36 22% off $68.52 -
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Sharkbite 3/4" Bronze Backflow Preventer Dual Check Valve, Lead-Free. (MPN: BF13434)SKU: 1995585$42.45 22% off $54.15
Backflow Preventers
Protecting your water supply from contamination is essential for maintaining safe drinking water and preventing costly damage to your plumbing system.
At Plumbing Supply And More, we offer an extensive selection of high-quality backflow preventers designed to meet residential, commercial, and industrial requirements across various pressure ranges and applications.
Our comprehensive inventory includes bronze backflow preventers, brass valve assemblies, pressure vacuum breakers, and specialized double check valve systems from trusted manufacturers like Apollo Valves and WATTS.
Whether you need a simple check valve for basic protection or a sophisticated reduced pressure zone device for critical applications, we provide reliable solutions that comply with IAPMO standards and local plumbing codes.
Understanding Backflow Prevention Systems & Their Importance
Backflow occurs when water pressure drops in your main supply line, potentially allowing contaminated water to flow backward into your clean water system. This reverse flow can introduce dangerous contaminants from irrigation systems, fire sprinkler networks, or other sources directly into your drinking water supply, creating serious health hazards for your family or customers.
Modern backflow prevention devices work by creating mechanical barriers that automatically seal when backward pressure is detected.
These systems utilize spring-loaded mechanisms, atmospheric pressure differentials, and gravity-assisted components to maintain one-way flow under all operating conditions. The technology has evolved significantly over decades to provide reliable protection against both back pressure and back-siphonage scenarios.
Contamination prevention is particularly critical in commercial settings where industrial processes, chemical systems, or waste management operations could introduce harmful substances into potable water supplies.
Professional backflow prevention systems ensure compliance with health department regulations while protecting your investment in clean water infrastructure.
Types of Backflow Preventers & Their Applications
Double check valve assemblies represent the most common type of backflow prevention for moderate-hazard applications. These devices feature two independently operating check valves in series, with test ports between them for verification testing.
They work effectively against back-pressure conditions up to 175 PSI and provide reliable protection for most residential and light commercial installations.
Reduced pressure zone devices offer the highest level of protection for high-hazard situations where toxic or contaminated fluids could potentially enter the water supply.
These sophisticated systems include a pressure regulator mechanism that maintains lower pressure in the middle chamber, along with a relief valve that automatically discharges water if the system detects any pressure abnormalities.
Atmospheric vacuum breakers provide cost-effective protection against back-siphonage conditions in applications like irrigation systems, hose connections, and equipment that operates below the critical level.
These simple yet effective devices allow air to enter the system when vacuum conditions develop, breaking the siphon effect that could draw contaminated water backward.
Pressure vacuum breakers combine the benefits of atmospheric units with the ability to handle continuous pressure applications.
They feature spring-loaded air gap mechanisms that open automatically when system pressure drops, preventing vacuum formation while maintaining normal water flow during regular operation.
Bronze & Brass Construction for Durability & Performance
Bronze backflow preventers offer superior corrosion resistance and longevity compared to standard materials, making them ideal for demanding applications.
The alloy composition provides excellent resistance to dezincification, stress corrosion cracking, and general wear from continuous water flow. Bronze units typically feature lead-free construction to meet current drinking water safety standards while maintaining structural integrity under high-pressure conditions.
Brass valve components deliver reliable performance with excellent machinability for precise manufacturing tolerances.
These materials resist scaling, provide smooth operation throughout their service life, and offer compatibility with standard piping and plumbing fittings used in most installations. The natural antimicrobial properties of brass also help maintain water quality within the device itself.
Stainless steel internal components are often incorporated into premium backflow preventers to provide maximum durability in high-flow applications. These materials resist erosion from particulate matter in the water supply while maintaining tight sealing surfaces that ensure proper operation over extended periods.
The combination of bronze bodies with stainless steel internals represents the optimal balance of cost and performance for most professional installations.
Installation Considerations for Water Pressure & System Integration
Proper sizing based on your system's water pressure and flow requirements is crucial for effective backflow prevention.
Most residential applications operate between 40-80 PSI, while commercial systems may require devices rated for 175 PSI or higher. Undersized units will create excessive pressure drops that reduce system performance, while oversized devices may not operate properly at low flow rates.
National pipe thread connections ensure compatibility with standard plumbing systems and provide leak-free installation when properly applied.
Most backflow preventers feature female threaded connections that mate with male piping and plumbing fitting components, though some specialized units may require flange connections for larger pipe sizes or high-pressure applications.
Heat expansion considerations become important in systems connected to water heating equipment or exposed to temperature variations.
Bronze and brass materials expand at different rates than steel or plastic piping, requiring proper installation techniques to prevent stress on threaded connections. Professional installation typically includes provisions for thermal expansion and access for future testing and maintenance.
Maintenance & Testing Requirements for Backflow Prevention Devices
Annual testing by certified technicians ensures your backflow preventer continues providing reliable protection against contamination.
Most local jurisdictions require documentation of proper operation through standardized test procedures that verify closing pressure, pressure drop, and relief valve function. These tests identify potential issues before they compromise your water supply safety.
Routine inspection should include checking for visible leaks, corrosion, or physical damage that could affect device operation.
The relief valve should be exercised periodically to prevent sticking, and test ports should be kept clean and accessible for annual testing procedures. Any signs of mineral buildup or scaling should be addressed promptly to maintain proper valve seating.
Component replacement may become necessary as seals, springs, and valve seats wear from continuous operation.
Most quality backflow preventers feature serviceable designs that allow replacement of internal components without removing the entire assembly from your plumbing system. Regular maintenance extends device life and ensures consistent protection performance.
Irrigation Systems & Specialized Applications
Hose bib vacuum breakers provide essential protection at outdoor water connections where garden hoses, pressure washers, or other equipment could create back-siphonage conditions.
These compact devices install directly on hose connections and automatically break vacuum conditions that could draw contaminants from pools, chemical applicators, or other sources back into your water supply.
Fire sprinkler system connections require specialized backflow prevention due to the potential for stagnant water and corrosion inhibitors in these systems.
Double check valve assemblies or reduced pressure zone devices provide appropriate protection depending on local fire department requirements and the specific chemicals used in the sprinkler system.
Drip irrigation and landscape watering systems often incorporate fertilizers, pesticides, or recycled water that could contaminate potable supplies if backflow occurs.
Professional-grade backflow preventers ensure these systems operate safely while providing the water pressure needed for effective irrigation coverage across large areas.
Selecting the Right Backflow Preventer Assembly for Your Needs
Flow rate requirements determine the minimum size needed for your application, while maximum water pressure establishes the pressure rating necessary for safe operation.
Residential applications typically require 3/4-inch to 1-inch devices, while commercial installations may need 2-inch or larger assemblies to handle higher flow demands without creating excessive pressure drops.
Hazard assessment helps determine whether a simple check valve, double check valve assembly, or reduced pressure zone device provides appropriate protection for your specific application.
Low-hazard situations like residential lawn irrigation may only require basic protection, while high-hazard commercial processes need the maximum protection offered by RPZ devices.
Installation environment considerations include temperature extremes, potential freezing conditions, and accessibility for testing and maintenance.
Indoor installations in heated spaces have fewer environmental concerns, while outdoor devices may require insulation, drainage provisions, or heated enclosures in cold climates.
At Plumbing Supply And More, we provide expert guidance in selecting the optimal backflow prevention system for your specific requirements, ensuring reliable protection for your water supply while meeting all applicable codes and regulations.
