When you turn on the tap, you expect clean, safe water to flow into your home. But sometimes, the flow of water can reverse direction—a plumbing issue known as backflow. Backflow can allow contaminants to enter your drinking water supply, creating serious health and safety risks. At Very Good Plumbing, we help San Antonio homeowners (as well as neighbors in Helotes, Boerne, and Schertz) prevent backflow with expert testing, repairs, and prevention solutions.

What Is Backflow?

Backflow happens when water flows backwards through your plumbing system. Instead of clean water moving forward into your faucets, dirty or contaminated water is drawn back into your household pipes.

There are two main causes:

• Backpressure: When pressure inside your plumbing system is greater than the water supply pressure. This can happen with boilers, water heaters, or irrigation systems.
• Backsiphonage: When water supply pressure suddenly drops, pulling contaminated water back into the system. For example, a nearby water main break could trigger backsiphonage.

Why Is Backflow Dangerous?

Backflow isn’t just a plumbing problem—it’s a health hazard. When contaminants mix with drinking water, they can expose you and your family to harmful substances such as:

• Fertilizers and pesticides from lawn irrigation systems
• Chemicals from pools or spas
• Bacteria and pathogens from wastewater lines
• Heavy metals and other pollutants from industrial sources

Even small amounts of these contaminants can lead to serious health risks, which is why backflow prevention is essential for every home.

How Do You Prevent Backflow?

The most effective way to prevent backflow is by installing and maintaining a backflow prevention device. These devices ensure water only flows one way—into your home—and never backwards into the supply.

Key steps include:

1. Install a backflow preventer: Required in many areas, especially for irrigation and commercial plumbing systems.
2. Schedule annual testing: Licensed plumbers can verify your backflow device is functioning properly.
3. Repair or replace faulty devices: A malfunctioning backflow preventer leaves your water supply at risk.

Do You Need Backflow Testing in San Antonio?

Yes. In fact, many municipalities in Texas require annual backflow testing for certain systems, especially irrigation. If your home has a sprinkler system, pool, or commercial plumbing setup, regular testing isn’t just smart—it’s often legally required.

At Very Good Plumbing, we handle everything from testing and inspections to repairs and installations of backflow prevention devices. Our team makes sure your home and family stay safe from contaminated water.

Trust Very Good Plumbing for Backflow Prevention

With over a decade of plumbing experience, we proudly serve San Antonio, Helotes, Boerne, Schertz, and surrounding communities. Whether you need backflow testing, repairs, or a new installation, our licensed plumbers provide fast, reliable, and affordable service.

👉 Learn more about our team and values here

Final Thoughts

Backflow is a hidden plumbing issue that can put your health at risk. By understanding what it is, why it’s dangerous, and how to prevent it, you can keep your water safe and your home protected.

If you’re unsure about your system or need annual backflow testing, call Very Good Plumbing today. We’ll make sure your water is clean, safe, and flowing in the right direction.