Many property owners are aware of backflow testing regulations, but many do not know exactly what the backflow testing procedures entail. This article should clarify.  If you have further questions you can call City Backflow Testing at (817) 996-2000, your Dallas/Fort Worth backflow experts and a trusted name in backflow prevention.

At City Backflow Testing, 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

Let’s take a look at each of these steps so you will know exactly what they mean.

Notify the customer about testing

The way it usually works, the customers does not schedule the backflow testing year after year. Once the licensed backflow tester concludes a test one year, they automatically schedule a test for the next year.

Identify and make sure serial number is correct

The serial numbers are recorded for all backflow parts and backflow prevention devices used in any particular city.  In order for the testing to be valid, the serial numbers must match.

Confirm that there are four test ports and two shut off handles

This is a requirement for all backflow assemblies.  Backflow assemblies without the required four and two are not allowed under state and federal regulations.

Attach test equipment and follow testing procedures

These procedures are spelled out by federal guidelines and the University of Southern California backflow and  cross connection guidelines.

Enter test results on appropriate governmental forms

Each city has backflow testing forms which must be filled out with relevant information.  Using the wrong forms will result in that testing being null and void.

Turn in all test reports to city water department

This is the final step, the delivery of test reports so that they may be logged into the city’s system.  At that time a new backflow test is scheduled for the next year, and the city signs off on the property owner meeting their requirement for that year.

What is repairs are necessary as detected by the testing?  An appointment is made to do the necessary repairs, and after the repairs are completed the city if notified of that compliance.  It should be noted that only licensed and certified backflow inspectors and backflow repair specialists may conduct this backflow testing. This required passing a state exam and filling out the paperwork for licensing, and licensing is required for each city in an area.  Without proper documentation and proper licensing, the backflow testing if invalid.

Questions? You can call City Backflow Testing with any questions you might have, and if you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, you can call for rates or a backflow testing appointment.  We are experts in backflow installation, backflow testing, and backflow repairs.