What is a back flow preventer? What is the difference between a back flow preventer and a check valve? Do I need on on my faucet?
The terms backflow preventer and check valve are often used interchangeably. The purpose of the valves is to prevent water on a plumbing appliance, faucets, water heater, garden hose from backing up into the water system and contaminating it. The best example is if you are using an attachment to your garden hose to spray insecticide on your lawn or garden and you lose pressure on the line. Without a backflow preventer the poison could potentially back up into the water system and pollute the system.
Do you need one? If the question is will the faucet work without one the answer is yes. Most plumbers will tell you they are required by code but there seems to be some difference of opinion on the subject. It also seems it is rarely enforced if it is required.
Most faucets today come with two check valves. In the Eclipse faucet one is in the head and one is attached between the hose and the body of the faucet – see pictures below.
