Back siphonage is a plumbing condition that occurs when a negative pressure in the water supply system causes contaminated water to flow backward into the clean water system. This can happen during events like a sudden drop in main water pressure, often due to a pipe burst or heavy water usage elsewhere in the system. Back siphonage poses serious health risks as it can lead to cross-contamination of drinking water with pollutants from sources like irrigation systems, washing machines, or chemical tanks. To prevent back siphonage, anti-siphon valves, air gaps, and backflow preventers are commonly installed in plumbing systems, ensuring that potable water remains safe and uncontaminated.
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