Prepare for the Backflow Prevention Exam with comprehensive flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question aids understanding with detailed hints and explanations. Excel in your exam with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


A double check valve assembly is often used to protect against _____.

  1. Backpressure

  2. High pressure

  3. Backsiphonage

  4. Bacterial contamination

The correct answer is: Backsiphonage

A double check valve assembly is specifically designed to protect against backsiphonage, which occurs when there is a drop in water pressure in the supply system, allowing possibly contaminated water from the area downstream of the valve to flow back into the clean water supply. This type of assembly consists of two independently acting check valves that work together to provide a barrier against this reverse flow, ensuring that potable water is not contaminated by non-potable water sources. The use of double check valve assemblies is essential in protecting plumbing systems from backsiphonage especially in situations where the potable water supply may be at risk of contamination due to potential hazardous substances present in adjacent systems, such as irrigation supplies or industrial applications. Their design allows for the detection of any potential backflow situation, which is crucial for maintaining water quality and public health.