Backflow preventer assemblies (BPAs) are one of your property’s most important plumbing components! They help prevent backflow and cross-contamination, ensuring the health and safety of your water supply and the community’s. When damage occurs, there’s a real risk of potentially hazardous water contamination. Backflow enclosures offer an added level of security, mitigating the risk of damage in any environment.

What Are Backflow Enclosures?

A backflow enclosure is a simple but important accessory that aims to safeguard your preventer. For most properties, devices are above ground. They must be easily accessible for annual inspections. Therefore, preventers are exposed to many damaging factors.

Backflow covers slip over the entire assembly, shielding it from Mother Nature, physical damage, accidents, etc. A high-quality backflow enclosure is more than a simple box. They offer superior construction and optimal protection while providing quick access to the preventer for inspections or repair. Some backflow covers also feature unique designs to blend into landscaping or boost curb appeal.

What Type of Backflow Enclosures Are Available?

Many types of backflow covers are available, meeting any property’s needs. These accessories come in various materials, sizes and colors. Backflow insulation covers usually feature a hard shell of fiberglass or aluminum. Rigid or compressible foam lines the enclosure walls, creating an isolated environment not easily affected by temperature changes.

Metal backflow covers are also available. These models can also have insulation on the enclosure walls. However, the aluminum construction offers greater strength. Some models can also accommodate a heater on the enclosure walls for greater freeze protection.

The simplest type of backflow enclosure is a cage. Backflow preventer cages are common throughout Louisiana. They feature an open design and little protection from the elements. However, a backflow preventer cage uses steel wire to protect devices from vandalism or accidental physical damage.

How Can Insulated Covers Protect Against Weather-Related Damage?

Insulated covers offer great protection from cooler temperatures. Freeze and thaw cycles can damage preventers over time. Certain components within the BPA are particularly vulnerable to freezing. A backflow insulation cover uses foam to minimize heat loss. It keeps the preventer warm by creating air voids and an isolated environment.

Backflow insulation covers come in many designs, and seasoned contractors can help you choose options that provide the right R-value and thermal insulation you need.

How Does a Backflow Enclosure Protect Against Physical Damage?

Physical damage can cause major issues for your preventer. Whether it’s vandalism or something as simple as a fallen tree that hits your BPA, the force of that event can render your device useless. A backflow preventer cage shields your device. These enclosures are open, allowing air to flow through in areas that don’t need the thermal protection of insulated covers. Instead, they utilize resilient metal caging to create separation from would-be thieves, out-of-control vehicles and more.

Don’t leave your enclosure open to potential damage. Investing in a backflow enclosure can minimize your risks, ensuring your preventer continues to serve your property well. Let NOLA Backflow Testing help you get an enclosure that suits your needs. We’re a trusted testing and repair company that works hard to deliver service you can count on. We’re available for backflow testing and inspection, backflow enclosures, repairs and replacement.

Call the NOLA Backflow Testing team now at (504)300-9504 to learn more and get a free quote. You can also email us or use our online contact form to get in touch.