Several Clarksburg neighbors asked us to replace both the potable water and fire sprinkler dual check valves in their homes. Here's what those valves do and when they're due.
The question
A group of Clarksburg homeowners asked for an estimate to replace two backflow valves in each home: the dual check valve on the potable (drinking) water line and the one on the fire sprinkler line.
What's going on
Newer Clarksburg homes have a residential fire sprinkler system fed from the house water. A dual check valve keeps sprinkler water from flowing back into the drinking water. These valves can't be tested in place, so WSSC Water requires the fire sprinkler device to be rebuilt or replaced once every five years. Many homes built in the same few years come due at the same time.
What we recommended
- Replace the potable water dual check valve.
- Replace the fire sprinkler dual check valve.
- Do the homes on the same visit, which keeps the cost down for each one.
What the estimate covers
- Both dual check valves per home
- Parts and labor
Tips for Clarksburg homeowners
- Check the date on your fire sprinkler backflow valve. Five years is the WSSC Water replacement interval for these devices.
- Neighbors with same-age homes can book together. Ask about a group visit.
- Fire sprinkler dual checks are separate from lawn irrigation backflow preventers, which need yearly testing.
Seeing something similar in Clarksburg?Call or text for a written price before any work.