Backflow Prevention Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes backsiphonage?

1. A negative pressure in the water supply

2. Excessive pressure in the water supply

3. Contamination from surface water

4. Loss of thermal expansion control

The correct answer is: A negative pressure in the water supply

The correct answer is that backsiphonage is best described as a negative pressure in the water supply. Backsiphonage occurs when there is a drop in water pressure in the supply system, which can create a vacuum effect. This negative pressure allows contaminated water from a source, such as a sink or a hose, to be drawn back into the clean water supply. Understanding backsiphonage is crucial in backflow prevention practices, as it emphasizes the need for maintaining adequate pressure in the water system to prevent any potential hazards from infiltrating through plumbing fixtures or outlets. It's important to note that excessive pressure in the water supply or contamination from surface water does not accurately define backsiphonage, as those scenarios describe different types of backflow issues. Additionally, the loss of thermal expansion control pertains to issues related to heating systems rather than the mechanics of backsiphonage itself.