Backflow Preventers & Backflow Prevention

Backflow Preventers for Commercial, Residential & Irrigation Systems

Shop backflow preventers and backflow prevention assemblies from leading manufacturers including Zurn Wilkins, Watts and Apollo. MasterBuilder Mercantile carries reduced pressure (RPZ) assemblies, double check valve assemblies (DCVA), dual check valves, vacuum breakers, air gaps, testing equipment and backflow repair parts for residential, commercial, irrigation and industrial applications.

Choose the appropriate backflow preventer based on connection size, system pressure, application and the level of cross-connection protection required. Reduced pressure assemblies are commonly used where protection from both backsiphonage and backpressure is required, while double check assemblies are used in applications permitted by the applicable plumbing code and authority having jurisdiction.

Popular Zurn Wilkins RPZ Backflow Preventers

For reduced pressure applications, Zurn Wilkins offers proven RPZ assemblies for residential, irrigation, commercial and mechanical systems. One of our most popular 1-inch models is the Zurn Wilkins 1-975XL 1" RPZ backflow preventer, a compact bronze reduced pressure assembly with 1" female NPT connections, full-port ball valves and convenient in-line service access.

What Is a Backflow Preventer?

A backflow preventer is a plumbing safety device designed to prevent contaminated or non-potable water from flowing backward into a potable water supply. Backflow can occur through either backsiphonage or backpressure when conditions within a plumbing system change.

Different types of backflow prevention assemblies provide different levels of protection. Selecting the appropriate device depends on the degree of hazard, system configuration, applicable plumbing code and requirements of the local authority having jurisdiction.

Types of Backflow Prevention

• Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (RP / RPZ): Designed to protect against both backsiphonage and backpressure in high-hazard applications where permitted by applicable codes.
• Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA): Used for protection against backsiphonage and backpressure in applications where the applicable authority permits a double check assembly.
• Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB): Commonly used for protection against backsiphonage in irrigation and other appropriate applications.
• Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB): Provide backsiphonage protection for specific plumbing applications and installation configurations.
• Dual Check Valves: Compact backflow protection devices used in applications permitted by applicable plumbing codes and local authorities.

Choosing the Right Backflow Preventer

When selecting a backflow preventer, consider the required assembly type, connection size, flow requirements, working pressure, temperature, installation orientation and applicable approvals. Local plumbing codes and cross-connection-control requirements should always be verified before selecting or installing an assembly.

MasterBuilder Mercantile supplies backflow prevention products for irrigation systems, commercial plumbing, mechanical systems, industrial equipment and other cross-connection-control applications throughout Canada and the United States.