Let’s begin this article with a definitive statement: not all plumbers have backflow testing certification!
And another: all backflow testing, backflow installation, and backflow repairs must be conducted by someone with backflow testing certification!
In other words, make sure you ask anyone you hire for backflow work to see their backflow certification. Otherwise you will be liable and subject to fines by your local government.
Call us at (817) 996-2000 if you have questions. We are City Backflow Testing, serving the Greater Fort Worth area, and we know all about backflow testing certification.
What is backflow testing certification?
Every state requires that anyone working in the backflow industry be certified by the State, and that means taking a certification course offered by your state at different times during the year. You can count on paying $500-$700 for the course, and in the course you will learn the following:
“Participants will learn how to: identify types of backflow preventers, components, and functions; inspect backflow prevention assembly installations; test and diagnose simulated problems in all types of approved backflow prevention assemblies; record and report assembly test results.”
After completing the course you will be certified by your state to work on backflow devices, to install backflow devices, and to test backflow devices.
A word of caution about backflow testing certification: although the backflow certification is good for your entire state, individual cities within your state will still require you to obtain a city backflow license before you can conduct business in their city.
Finally, armed with a city license and a state certification, you are allowed to conduct backflow business.
The homeowner is liable
It is the homeowner’s responsibility to do the following:
- Contact a backflow tester to have the annual testing done
- Make sure that the proper license and certification is current
If the homeowner fails to do these things, fines will be levied by the city.
What happens during backflow testing?
We can tell you what we do at City Backflow Testing. Since our procedures are standard for the industry, this should give you a good idea about a typical backflow test.
We use USC 10th Addition Testing Procedures:
- Notify- Notify the customer we are here for testing
- Identify- Make sure serial number is correct and that we have the right assembly
- Inspect- Make sure there are 4 test ports and 2 Shut off handles
- Observe- Attach test equipment and follow proper testing procedures for this assembly
- Test Reports- Enter values for the assemblies
- Turn in all test Reports to the local water Purveyor or City
Any questions about backflow testing? Contact your local Public Works Department to find out about backflow testing certification opportunities in your area, and they will also give up an updated list of certified backflow testers in your city if you are a property owner. It should be mentioned that not all property owners are required to have backflow devices on their property, so it would behoove you to find out about your property.
We are City Backflow Testing. Call us if you have questions about anything related to backflow.
