Backflow preventer (cary) (house, neighborhood, utilities)

[LobsterOfJustice]

I need to replace my backflow preventer on my irrigation system. My preventer, as well as all the other ones I see in the neighborhood look like the Wilkins reduced pressure backflow preventer, like this one: Wilkins 1-975XL Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventor - - Amazon.com

At lowes, they sell the Watts one. It is a little cheaper and looks different, but it is the same type (reduced pressure zone). Does anyone know if this one is allowed? http://www.amazon.com/Watts-Backflow.../dp/B0012QGSKC

I am just wondering because every single house seems to have the Wilkins one.

[Ed_RDNC]

While they look a bit different, they both do the same thing in the same way. They are both "Reduced-Pressure" types of backflow preventers: two in-line check-valves with a "reduced-pressure" dump valve in-between.

Some jurisdictions allow the cheaper, less complex double-check (less the dump valve in-between).
If I were you, I'd stay with the style you already had, as the Cary town ordinances aren't clear where the better style is required. Ordinance

It looks like the difference between the two you show, is the more costly (Wilkins 1-975XL) is rated for drinking (potable) water, and the other, (Watts 009M2) is specifically NOT so rated, as it has some lead content, but is specifically OK for irrigation systems.

[LobsterOfJustice]

Yes, the ordinance wasn't as helpful as I hoped. Like you said, I would expect the two would be interchangeable because they are the same style, but it seems weird that I don't see anyone using the cheaper version available at the local hardware store. Lowes also sells the double check you mention, and I'm pretty sure that one is NOT sufficient.

[LobsterOfJustice]

Bump... does anyone know for sure?

[frankpc]

I'm not sure, but since Cary has an annual testing requirement you could try calling someone from this list:

http://www.townofcary.org/Assets/Pub...lowtesters.pdf


Frank