Backflow

The Commercial Plan Review Program reviews the plans for constructing or remodeling a commercial project that includes backflow assemblies and devices.

Backflow assemblies are selected and installed based upon a potential hazard. 

The following backflow protection may be found on a commercial project:

• Air gap
  • A vertical separation between a faucet and a sink...or a drain pipe and a floor sink.
  • At least 1-inch, or twice the pipe diameter, whichever is bigger.
  • Required for:
    • Ice Machines + Ice Boxes;
    • Walk-in Cooler + Refrigerators + Freezers;
    • Three Compartment Sinks;
    • Food Prep Sinks;
    • Bar Sink + Fountain Sink;
    • Sterilizing Equipment;
    • Commercial Dishwasher + Warewashing Machine;
    • Condensate;
    • Egg Boilers + Steam Tables;
    • Beverage Dispensers = hot + cold + coffee;

• Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)
  • An AVB must be installed at least 6-inches above the highest outlet in a plumbing system AND no shutoff valves may be installed after the AVB.
  • AVB's are commonly found on a faucet for a mop sink.
  • --- Food Establishments ---
    • Do not install a y-valve, or splitter, on a mop sink faucet with an AVB.
    • Do not install a nozzle on a hose attached to a mop sink faucet with an AVB.
• Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
  • A PVB must be installed at least 12-inches above the highest outlet in the plumbing system.
  • --- Food Establishments ---
    • Use this product if you want to install a y-valve / splitter on a mop sink faucet.
    • Use this product is you want to install a nozzle on a hose attached to a mop sink faucet with an AVB.
• Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) with vent [ASSE 1022]
  • Must be installed before a carbonator.
  • Must be installed at least 12-inches above the floor.
• Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RPPA)
  • Must be installed before a carbonator.
  • Must be installed at least 12-inches above the floor.

Additional information about backflow:

• Click here for the backflow requirements for a Food Establishment
• Click here for the backflow requirements for a Pool - sections 146 + 176
• Click here for the backflow requirements for a Spa - sections 474 + 498
• Click here for the backflow requirements for a School - section 5685
• Click here for the backflow requirements for a Mobile Home Park or RV Park
• Click here for the backflow requirements for a Water Company
• Click here for the EPA manual for backflow

Here's how to contact the Commercial Plan Review Program:

Health front desk - 775-328-2434

General email
ehsplanreview@nnph.org

HealthEHS@nnph.org