From the Trophy Club website regarding backflow prevention:

Any site where there is a potential for water contamination due to backflow are under the following regulations:

“All backflow prevention assemblies that are required according to this section shall be tested upon installation by a recognized backflow prevention assembly tester and certified to be operating within specifications. Backflow prevention assemblies that are installed to provide protection against health hazards must also be tested and certified to be operating within specifications at least annually by a recognized backflow prevention assembly tester.”

Let’s look at this requirement a bit closer.

What backflow danger?

Most, if not all, backflow problems occur at cross-connections in the water distribution system.  In other words, where the city water flow meets a home or business water connection, that spot is known as a cross-connection.  Every building has them, water diverted to bathrooms and kitchens, but only locations where the water volume is great are seriously under danger of backflow occurring. These high volume locations are usually businesses, and in particular businesses like restaurants or warehouses or locations with irrigation systems.  For a complete list of these “high risk” locations, check with the City of Trophy Club.

What are backflow assemblies?

If your property is on that list, you are required to have approved backflow assemblies at your cross-connections.  These backflow assemblies are usually one-way valves which only allow water to flow in one direction, towards your home or business. Thus, backflow is prevented from happening should water pressure suddenly drop drastically.

Who can install and inspect backflow assemblies?

Only licensed, trained, and certified backflow testers may install, repair, and inspect backflow parts, and a list of those backflow testers is also available on the Trophy Club website.  Be forewarned that although this is a plumbing job in nature, not all plumbers are backflow certified.  In addition, certified backflow inspectors can only used approved backflow parts when making repairs or when installing a backflow system.

How often do you need a backflow inspection?

Backflow inspections must take place annually. The backflow inspector will complete the necessary governmental forms and deliver them to the appropriate offices in Trophy Club, and he/she will also, at that time, schedule the next annual inspection.

What does all this cost?

We suggest you shop around for the best price for backflow inspections, backflow repairs, and backflow installation.  Rates differ between companies depending on the extent of the services you need completed.  Just make sure you are getting a quote from a city-approved backflow company.

All of these regulations are in accordance with the Clean Water Act of 1972 and other appropriate local, state, and federal regulations, and failure to follow those regulations will result in stiff fines levied upon the property owner.  It is, ultimately, the property owner who is responsible for backflow prevention.

Call City Backflow Testing at (817) 996-2000 for more information and to ask about our rates for backflow installation, backflow testing, and backflow repairs.  In Tarrant County we are a trusted name in all matters related to backflow prevention.  Call us today!