installation of backflow preventer in crawlspace

[jason_72_98043]

hi!

is there any rules/codes as to where it has to be installed? my incoming water service is on the other side of the crawlspace entrance. plenty of clearance at the water service to install the backflow preventer.

whats your thoughts? thanks!

[johnjh2o1]

They have to be tested yearly. The code says they have to be accessible. I'd check with the building dept. in your area.

John

[American Irrigation]

Originally Posted by jason_72_98043

hi!

is there any rules/codes as to where it has to be installed? my incoming water service is on the other side of the crawlspace entrance. plenty of clearance at the water service to install the backflow preventer.

whats your thoughts? thanks!

Although It may be allowed, you wont save any money. Being a backflow tester I can promise you that you will pay for it in the test fees, especially if your municipality requires annual test. I would charge double to get into a crawl space.

[hj]

There are two major requirements for a backflow device's location.
1. It must be in a location where "spillage" will not create a problem, and
2. It MUST be located HIGHER, usually 12" higher, than the highest irrigation head.

installation in most crawl spaces would usually not meet either requirement.

[Inspektor Ludwig]

I'm thinking that you're in Washington state by the zip code. Are you going to install an AVB or a DCVA? The AVB would need to be higher than the tallest sprinkler head in your lawn. The DCVA could for all purposes be installed in your crawl space, it would depend on how tall your crawlspace is. If I have to crawl on my hands and knees I may not be very happy when it comes to testing and a tester would charge you more but a crawl space is considered "accessible" for code purposes. You need to have a minimum of 12" below the device and have enough room around it to test, repair or replace not to mention you may need a permanent light with a switch at the opening of the crawl and maintain the minimum access clearance path to the device since it's considered "maintenance" (it all depends on what city you live in with how strict they are). Then you may need to pull an electrical permit along with the plumbing permit for the light switch. To much stuff involved. Whew! I personally would install it outside or in my garage where I could keep an eye on it.

[hj]

What is a DCVA? If it is a double check, then it does not meet the minimum requirements for an irrigation backflow device in this area. In fact, some require an RPPBFP valve as the minimum/only accepted device.

[Inspektor Ludwig]

DCVA is a double check, it's allowed up here for irrigation systems.