Zurn Wilkins 2" Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventer Review
Product Overview
The Zurn Wilkins 2" 975LXL2 Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer is designed to keep your water supply safe and uncontaminated. It ensures that water only flows in one direction by stopping backflow, which can happen during pressure changes. This device is especially useful in commercial and industrial plumbing systems where water safety is critical. Its standout feature is a reduced pressure principle design paired with quarter-turn full port ball valves that make operation smoother. You can also adjust the outlet pressure from 50 to 165 psi to suit your system’s needs.
Zurn Wilkins 2″ 975LXL2 Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer
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Key Takeaways
- Reliable backflow prevention with reduced pressure principle design.
- Field-adjustable outlet pressure from 50 to 165 psi offers versatility.
- Easy operation thanks to quarter turn, full port ball valves.
- Minor bulkiness may require planning space-wise during installation.
- Requires some technical know-how for installation and maintenance.
Why You Might Need a Zurn Wilkins 2" Backflow Preventer
If you manage a commercial building or an industrial facility, you understand how crucial it is to keep water contamination risks low. Backflow can introduce dirty water into your clean water supply, which may lead to health hazards or regulatory issues. Maybe you’ve had trouble with inconsistent water pressure or unreliable shutoff valves in other models. You want a dependable solution that maintains water pressure safely and clearly shows operational status. This backflow preventer is designed to stop unwanted water reversal efficiently, making it essential for safeguarding your water systems.
First Impressions: What to Expect
When you first get the Zurn Wilkins 2" 975LXL2, you’ll notice it’s built solidly. The metal construction is robust but not overly heavy, making handling easier during installation. Inside the packaging, you get the unit itself with simple instructions. It leans toward industrial style, no frills, but designed to function without fuss. The quarter-turn ball valves stand out immediately, promising easy operation compared to traditional gate valves. There aren’t extra accessories, but this simplicity is a plus considering its installation focus.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 Inches |
| Model | 975LXL2 |
| Connection Type | MNPT x MNPT |
| Pressure Rating | Field adjustable: 50-165 psi |
| Valve Type | Quarter turn full port ball valves |
| Function | Reduced pressure backflow prevention |
| Application | Floor control valve, commercial/industrial |
| Features | Less shutoff valves, adjustable outlet pressure |
Zurn Wilkins 2″ 975LXL2 Technical Details
Design & Build Quality
This backflow preventer impresses with its solid metal build that promises durability in demanding environments. Installation is made simpler due to its MNPT threaded connections, which fit standard plumbing setups. The most appreciated design feature is the quarter-turn, full port ball valves. They require minimal effort to operate and open fully to allow maximum water flow without obstruction. One user pointed out, "The ball valves are smooth and intuitive, a noticeable upgrade from other more stubborn shutoff types."
Another standout is the device’s ability to act as a floor control valve, allowing easy maintenance tasks without interrupting surrounding systems. The outlet pressure adjustment range, from 50 to 165 psi, gives you flexibility in different applications. You can fine-tune it right on site without extra tools, which enhances convenience.
The fewer shutoff valves mean fewer points of potential failure, improving reliability long-term. Overall, the design balances ruggedness and user-friendly operation, especially valuable for commercial plumbing professionals.
Robust Design with Smooth Ball Valves
Real-World Performance
In everyday use, this backflow preventer shines where it counts — in preventing unwanted water reversal and maintaining constant pressure. One installation story from a local business recalled replacing an older unit that caused frequent pressure drops and water contamination warnings.
With the Zurn Wilkins model, they saw immediate benefits. The quarter-turn valves made valve operation quick and reliable during maintenance. Adjusting outlet pressure on site allowed matching precise system requirements, stabilizing water flow through their pipes.
The device handles both flow and no-flow conditions by regulating pressure appropriately, which reduces wear and tear on your plumbing network. Users report fewer leaks and zero backflow incidents since switching to this model. Its quality reduces worries about manual monitoring and adds a layer of safety.
The robust construction stood up well even after extended use in harsh factory conditions, proving it a durable choice.
Stable Water Pressure After Installation
What Makes It Stand Out?
Compared with similar backflow preventers, the Zurn Wilkins 975LXL2 brings a few key advantages. Many competitors use gate valves which can be harder to turn and less reliable over time. This model’s quarter-turn full port ball valves offer both durability and ease, saving time during operation and maintenance.
Another competitor, which features more shutoff valves, increases complexity and potential maintenance issues. Zurn Wilkins reduces this to fewer shutoff valves without compromising safety, reducing the chance of leaks or valve failure.
Also, the field-adjustable outlet pressure setting is more convenient than fixed settings found in many alternatives. This makes it adaptable to a broader range of pressure systems without needing additional equipment.
While some backflow preventers focus strictly on residential use, this one is built to handle commercial and industrial demands, standing up better to tougher environments.
Strengths vs. Trade-Offs
| Strengths | Trade-Offs |
|---|---|
| ✅ Field adjustable outlet pressure (50-165 psi) | ❌ Slightly bulky for tight spaces |
| ✅ Quarter turn, full port ball valves (easy operation) | ❌ Needs professional installation recommended |
| ✅ Serves as a floor control valve | |
| ✅ Regulates pressure during flow and no-flow | |
| ✅ Less shutoff valves for reduced failure points |
Pros & Cons of the Zurn Wilkins Backflow Preventer
Who Is It For?
This backflow preventer is ideal for facility managers in commercial buildings like office complexes, warehouses, and schools who need robust flood protection and water safety. Industrial plants that handle large water volumes, such as manufacturing sites, will appreciate its durable construction and pressure regulation capabilities.
Plumbing professionals looking for a reliable device that’s easy to install and maintain will also find this model beneficial. Since it supports field-adjustable pressure settings, it’s suitable if your system’s requirements might change over time or need fine-tuning during setup.
If you’re someone seeking a long-term solution to maintain safe water and avoid contamination risks while simplifying operation, this product fits well.
Expert Advice to Maximize Results
To get the best from your Zurn Wilkins backflow preventer:
- Always have a certified plumber install the device to ensure proper connection and pressure calibration.
- Regularly inspect and clean the ball valves to prevent sticking or build-up.
- Use the field adjustment feature to match your system pressure, check after initial installation and periodically.
- Keep the surrounding access area clear to allow easy operation and maintenance without disassembly.
- When changing pressure settings, operate valves slowly to avoid water hammer or pressure spikes.
Following these tips will extend the lifespan of your backflow preventer and keep your water system safe and efficient for years.
Maintaining Your Backflow Preventer
FAQ
Q1: What is the outlet pressure range adjustable on this preventer?
A1: You can adjust the outlet pressure anywhere from 50 psi to 165 psi, allowing you to tailor it to your system’s specific needs.
Q2: How does the quarter-turn full port ball valve benefit operation?
A2: These valves open or close with a simple 90-degree turn, reducing effort and enabling full water flow without pressure loss.
Q3: Can this device be used as a floor control valve?
A3: Yes, it is designed to serve as a floor control valve, allowing convenient shutoff for maintenance or emergencies.
Q4: Does it regulate pressure during both flow and no-flow conditions?
A4: Yes, it maintains pressure consistently whether water is flowing or stationary, protecting your system effectively.
Q5: What type of connection fittings does it use?
A5: It uses MNPT x MNPT threaded connections, which are standard and compatible with many plumbing setups.
Q6: Is professional installation required?
A6: While possible for experienced DIYers, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper setup and performance.
Q7: How durable is the construction?
A7: The unit is made of sturdy metal components designed to withstand commercial and industrial environments, ensuring longevity.
Verdict
The Zurn Wilkins 2" 975LXL2 Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer is a reliable and versatile choice for anyone needing robust water safety measures. It offers smooth operation and adaptable pressure settings that fit various plumbing systems. Ideal for commercial or industrial use, it balances ease of use with solid performance.
