This article is for those who want, or need to know, about backflow prevention devices, their purpose and where you can find them.  If you have further questions after reading this article, give us a call at (817) 996-2000. We are City Backflow Testing and we are experts in the installation, repair, and testing of backflow prevention devices.

What is a backflow prevention device?

Simply stated, a backflow prevention device stops backflow from happening and thus ensures that your potable water supply remains pure and safe. This, of course, begs the question: what is backflow?

Backflow is the reversal of flow of water in a city’s water system.  Instead of water flowing from a clean source to your home or business, when backflow occurs polluted water will flow from your home or business back towards the city’s water supply.  The only thing preventing this from happening, day in, day out, 24/7, 365 days per year, are backflow preventers.

How do backflow prevention devices work?

Backflow prevention devices are mechanisms which only allow water to flow in one direction.  The valves which allow water to flow through a connection in the pipes are one-way valves, so when and if backflow happens, it is impossible for the polluted water to re-enter the city’s water supply.

Where is the greatest danger of backflow?

Properties used for commercial purposes, and those which have irrigation systems, are at the greatest risk of backflow and thus they are usually the ones required to have backflow testing annually.  If you own a property deemed to be at risk of backflow, your city officials will notify you in writing that you need an annual backflow inspection.  It is then up to you to pay for that inspection and pay for any installation, repair, or replacement costs.  Failure to do so will result in fines being levied.

How do you find a backflow tester?

Every city in the U.S. has a recommended list of licensed and certified backflow tester inspectors who they deal with. Those inspectors are certified for that particular city. They are aware of the requirements and the forms which need to be filled out and filed. Call your city’s water department for more information about licensed backflow experts.  As a general rule regarding backflow inspection, when in doubt, reach out and call your city’s backflow officials.

About City Backflow Testing

City Backflow Testing is locally owned and operated in the Greater Fort Worth area. We are licensed and certified in forty-two cities in and around Fort Worth, so we obviously have gained the trust of government officials in our neck of the words.

We use USC 10^th 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

Questions about backflow prevention devices?  Call the pros at City Backflow Testing!