Hi,
I've just bought a kitchen mixer tap to replace two single taps on my kitchen sink, so it should a straightforward replacement.
However, the instructions mention that I should have non return valves fitted to prevent water backflow. So I went ahead and bought a couple of them. Having looked at the inside, all it is is a thin bit of plastic with a thin spring, and that does not inspire me with confidence. How long would that last?
I've got high water pressure and have a fairly new combi boiler, but no non return valves fitted when installed. So I read a bit about it. I've also read that plumbers don't always fit them. I understand some cold water would go into the hot water pipe, which is what happens with my bath and basin taps, but I just turn the cold water a little and never had a problem, because water comes from the mains supply on both hot and cold. However, if the hot water supply was low (coming from a tank or cylinder) or if I had a pond, then I should consider it. But I'm still a bit confused.
I'm concerned that if the plastic mechanism were to fail or break, that would cause me more problems and it would a real hassle and require quite a bit of work just to replace it. Also, wouldn't it decrease the water pressure?
Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.
I've just bought a kitchen mixer tap to replace two single taps on my kitchen sink, so it should a straightforward replacement.
However, the instructions mention that I should have non return valves fitted to prevent water backflow. So I went ahead and bought a couple of them. Having looked at the inside, all it is is a thin bit of plastic with a thin spring, and that does not inspire me with confidence. How long would that last?
I've got high water pressure and have a fairly new combi boiler, but no non return valves fitted when installed. So I read a bit about it. I've also read that plumbers don't always fit them. I understand some cold water would go into the hot water pipe, which is what happens with my bath and basin taps, but I just turn the cold water a little and never had a problem, because water comes from the mains supply on both hot and cold. However, if the hot water supply was low (coming from a tank or cylinder) or if I had a pond, then I should consider it. But I'm still a bit confused.
I'm concerned that if the plastic mechanism were to fail or break, that would cause me more problems and it would a real hassle and require quite a bit of work just to replace it. Also, wouldn't it decrease the water pressure?
Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.
