Backflow prevention testing is the inspection of all backflow devices used in the protection against backflow.  In order to properly understand backflow prevention testing, it is necessary to understand what backflow is and what federal regulations govern this process.  This article should clarify it all for you, but if you have any questions about backflow testing, give us a call at (817) 996-2000.  We are City Backflow Testing, in Fort Worth, and we can answer any backflow question you fire at us.

What is backflow?

Without getting too technical, backflow refers to the reversal of water flow within the city’s water distribution system.  In a perfect world, water flows from the City’s water supply to your home or business.  In an imperfect world, one in which backflow exists, it is possible for water to reverse the direction of flow; in other words, it is possible for polluted water from your business or home to  flow back into the City’s clean water supply.  Obviously this must be prevented from happening or a major health hazard would occur.  Thus all cities require backflow prevention testing.

What happens with backflow prevention testing?

If required, a licensed and certified backflow tester will come to your property and conduct a backflow test.  He/she will make sure all parts to your backflow mechanisms are working properly.  If there is a problem with any of your backflow preventers, he/she will make repairs using only certified backflow parts.  They will then notify the city, in writing, and using designated forms, that the backflow testing has been conducted and what, if any, backflow repairs were made.

If required, this process will happen annually.  A trusted backflow prevention company will automatically schedule your property for testing each year so you don’t have to keep track of it all.

How do you know if your property requires backflow testing?

Contact your city’s health department or public works department.  One or the other will have the information you need.  Generally speaking, all commercial buildings in a city are usually included on the backflow testing list, as well as places where irrigation occurs.  A few residential homes are also included; the determination is made on an individual basis in every city, so check with your city departments for that answer.

What does backflow prevention testing cost?

Shop around!  Just make sure you only talk with certified and licensed backflow testers.  Being a plumber does not qualify one to be a backflow tester, so make sure you talk to someone on your city’s approved list.

What does backflow testing cost?

It’s impossible to give an accurate answer to this question.  On average, backflow testing will cost somewhere in the $100-$200 neighborhood.  That is just for testing.  Repairs and/or installation can cost in the thousands of dollars depending on what is needed.

About City Backflow Testing

City Backflow Testing has been in the backflow business for a good number of years and is a trusted name in the Greater Fort Worth area.  Most cities and towns in Tarrant County have City Backflow Testing on their list of approved backflow testers, so feel free to call us with your questions.