Have you ever wondered what that brass attachment with the holes in it at the spigot is? Well, I'm about to tell you, because it might be something you'd like to have in your bag of wet bay gadgets.
Let's say you're flushing your black tank and suddenly there is a drop or loss of campground water pressure. Gravity and tank pressure could cause the black tank contents to flow backwards through the hose, contaminating the park's fresh water supply. Obviously a very unhealthy scenario. Yuck!
To prevent backflow, all RV campsites are required to have backflow preventer valves installed on their water spigots. Backflow preventer valves are devices that allow water to flow in one direction only, preventing contaminated water from backflowing into the potable water supply. There are two main types of backflow preventer valves.
Reduced pressure principle backflow preventer valves (RPBPs): RPBPs work by maintaining a reduced pressure zone between the potable water supply and the RV's water system. This prevents contaminated water from backflowing into the potable water supply, even if there is a drop in pressure.
Vacuum breakers: Vacuum breakers work by allowing air to enter the water system if the pressure drops. This prevents a vacuum from forming, which can cause contaminated water to backflow into the potable water supply.
The type of backflow preventer valve that is required for an RV campsite depends on the specific regulations of the state or municipality where the campsite is located. It's important to check with the campsite manager to find out what type of backflow preventer valve is required.
This might be an item you'd like to add to your wet bay gadgets. Here are some tips for choosing the right backflow preventer valve.
Make sure the backflow preventer valve is approved by a recognized testing organization, such as the American Society of Sanitary Engineers (ASSE).
Choose a backflow preventer valve that is the correct size for the water spigot.
Make sure the backflow preventer valve is easy to install and maintain.
Choose a backflow preventer valve that is made from durable materials.
By following these tips, you can choose the right RV campground backflow preventer valve to protect your health and the health of others. In addition to the above, here are some additional things to keep in mind about RV campground backflow preventer valves.
Backflow preventer valves should be installed as close to the water spigot as possible.
Backflow preventer valves should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Backflow preventer valves should be replaced every 5 years, or sooner if they are damaged.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your RV campground backflow preventer valve is working properly and protecting everyone's health.
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