There is one application of backflow preventers that is often overlooked — the use of backflow preventers with beverage dispensers. This application is important cross-connection control. New revisions of the standards that cover the devices used in this application were recently published. These newly published standards are ASSE 1022, Backflow Preventer for Beverage Dispensing Equipment (for carbonated and non-carbonated); ASSE 1032, Dual Check Valve Type Backflow Preventers for Carbonated Beverage Dispensers, Post Mix Type, and Non-Carbonated Beverage Dispensers; and ASSE 1024, Dual Check Backflow Preventers. ASSE 1024 is generally used in conjunction with water meters; however, there have been recent code changes that make it prudent to include in this list.
ASSE 1022 and ASSE 1032 previously only covered devices used with carbonated beverage dispensers. A significant revision is that these standards now also cover non-carbonated beverage dispensers, such as coffee makers and ice machines. This change provides protection for products where the choice of backflow prevention was unclear.
In the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code®, dual check backflow preventers (ASSE 1024 devices) were added as an approved backflow preventer for non-carbonated beverage dispensers. The reasoning for this addition is that not all beverage dispensers (e.g. coffee makers) are installed with access to a drain. This makes the air gap and ASSE 1032 device impractical, as they could contribute to water damage.
2024 Uniform Plumbing Code®
603.5.12 Beverage Dispensers. Potable water supply to carbonated beverage dispensers shall be protected by an air gap or a vented backflow preventer that complies with ASSE 1022. For carbonated beverage dispensers, piping material installed downstream of the backflow preventer shall not be affected by carbon dioxide gas. Non-carbonated beverage dispensers, such as ice makers and coffee machines, shall be protected by an air gap or dual check backflow preventer that comply with ASSE 1032 or ASSE 1024.
The beverage dispenser backflow preventer standards are another example of how standards evolve to keep current with changes in codes and new applications as appropriate when industry needs demand.
