During summer, your irrigation system works harder than ever—delivering large volumes of water to keep your lawn and plants alive under Arizona’s relentless sun. But without the proper safety mechanisms in place, this essential system could put your home’s water supply at risk.
Backflow valves are one of the most critical (and overlooked) components of a residential irrigation system. They protect your drinking water from contamination caused by pressure imbalances, system failures, or back-siphoning events.
At Conserva Irrigation of Greater Scottsdale, we help homeowners install, inspect, and maintain backflow prevention devices that keep their water safe—and their systems compliant with Arizona codes.
What Is Backflow and Why Is It Dangerous?
Backflow occurs when water flows in the reverse direction—from your irrigation lines back into your home’s potable water system. This reversal can be triggered by:
- A sudden drop in city water pressure (from hydrant use or main breaks)
- A valve failure or pipe rupture in your system
- Pump system malfunctions or elevated irrigation zones
When this happens, fertilizers, pesticides, bacteria, and lawn contaminants can be sucked into the drinking water supply—posing a serious health hazard to your household.
How a Backflow Preventer Works
A backflow prevention valve (also called a backflow device) is a mechanical unit that:
- Allows water to flow in one direction only—from the city line into your irrigation system
- Closes instantly if pressure reverses, blocking contaminated water from reentering your clean supply
- Is often required by local water authorities and municipalities, especially in systems with fertilizer injectors, hose-end sprayers, or irrigation pumps
In most Arizona homes, a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) or a Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly (RPZ) is used, depending on the property layout and local code.
Why Backflow Protection Is Critical in Summer
Summer is when irrigation systems operate under maximum load, which increases:
- The likelihood of valve malfunctions or surges
- Soil pressure around buried pipes
- Water demand from multiple sources (AC condensate lines, pools, gardens)
Without a functioning backflow device, a system failure during high-volume irrigation can create a perfect storm for contaminated backflow into your drinking water—especially if you’re using fertilizers or greywater.
Is Your Backflow Device Installed and Up to Code?
Many homeowners don’t realize their system is missing a required backflow preventer—or that it hasn’t been inspected in years.
You may need backflow service if:
- You’re unsure when the device was last tested
- You’ve recently expanded your irrigation zones
- You’ve added a pressure pump or fertilizer injector
- Your city has notified you of inspection requirements
- You’re upgrading from a DIY or outdated system
Failing to comply with local plumbing codes may also void insurance coverage in case of contamination or damage.
Backflow Services from Conserva Irrigation
At Conserva, we offer complete backflow services for homeowners across Greater Scottsdale and surrounding areas:
Installation
We install PVB and RPZ assemblies in accordance with city regulations and EPA backflow prevention standards. We ensure correct placement, protection from freeze damage, and clean system integration.
Testing & Certification
Many municipalities require annual backflow testing. We handle:
- Pressure verification
- Valve seal inspection
- Performance documentation
- Official certification for compliance
Repairs & Replacements
Cracked valves, stuck seals, or corrosion? We provide:
- Same-day backflow repairs (when possible)
- Upgrades to modern, code-compliant assemblies
- Freeze-resistant installations and enclosures
Protect Your Family and Your Neighborhood’s Water Supply
Backflow isn’t just a personal risk—it’s a public one. A single contaminated irrigation line can affect entire neighborhoods if not contained properly. That’s why backflow protection is not just smart—it’s required.
Joining Conserva Club ensures:
✔ Your system is inspected seasonally
✔ Backflow preventers are tested regularly
✔ You get priority scheduling for repairs and upgrades
Book your backflow inspection today with Conserva Irrigation of Greater Scottsdale—and stay protected all summer long.
