Backflow Prevention Practice Exam

In a double check valve assembly, the purpose of the second check valve is to ____?

1. Provide redundancy

2. Control water temperature

3. Reduce water pressure

4. Prevent leaks

The correct answer is: Provide redundancy

In a double check valve assembly, the purpose of the second check valve is to provide redundancy. This design feature is crucial for enhancing the reliability of the backflow prevention system. If the first check valve fails for any reason—such as wear, damage, or a buildup of debris—the second check valve serves as an additional line of defense, preventing any potential backflow from occurring. This redundancy is particularly important in applications where the risk of contaminated water entering the potable water supply must be minimized. The other options do not accurately represent the function of the second check valve. Controlling water temperature and reducing pressure are not roles that check valves perform, and while preventing leaks is important, it is not the primary function of the second check valve in this specific assembly. Instead, the main goal of having two check valves is to ensure continued protection against backflow in the event the first one fails.