Saturday, September 27, 2014

Sprinkler system backflow valves

At the recent Great Plains ASHI conference, I did a presentation to the other inspectors on how to inspect and report on lawn sprinkler systems. While stressing the importance of a backflow valve, I confused  the inspectors who had traveled to the conference from Oklahoma. They had never heard of backflow valves and said that their state didn't require the installation of such valves. That's why it's important for you to have a professional, like me, inspect your sprinkler system to make certain that it has been installed properly.

A backflow valve does just what it says - it's a one-way valve that keeps water from flowing backward from your sprinkler pipes into your main water pipes. You really don't want water that has been in your underground sprinkler pipes to end up coming out of your kitchen faucet. Sometimes, to save money or to save time a backflow valve isn't included in a sprinkler system. Some older irrigation systems may not have a backflow valve. It's one of the first things I check in a sprinkler inspection.

Obviously, this isn't the time of year to talk about lawn sprinklers. It was just fascinating at the September ASHI conference to find out how different things can be in different states.

Whole house inspections, condo inspections, radon testing, mold testing, and more, we do it all for you. Call or E-mail today to schedule your Complete Home Inspection, 913-268-0222, www.completehomeinspectionkc.com.

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