Backflow testing and certification

Backflow assemblies contain springs, rubber seals and check valves that wear out, foul with debris or stick over time, and a failed device usually gives no visible warning. For that reason many water utilities and state regulations require testable assemblies to be tested when they are installed, after they are repaired or moved, and at least once a year after that, by a certified backflow tester. The tester submits the results to the water utility.

Usually your water utility (the "water purveyor"), as part of a cross-connection control program required by state drinking-water rules. Requirements differ from one utility to the next, so the notice or letter from your utility is the best guide to what is due and when. If you are not sure, contact us with the notice and we will help you work out what it requires.

The most common testable assemblies are the reduced pressure zone assembly (RPZ or RP), the double check valve assembly (DCVA or DC) and the pressure vacuum breaker (PVB). RPZs protect against high hazards such as chemicals and are common on commercial buildings, boilers and some irrigation systems. Double checks are used for lower hazards and many fire sprinkler systems. PVBs are mainly used on lawn irrigation systems and only protect against backsiphonage. Fire lines often use detector versions of these assemblies (DCDA or RPDA).

A routine test of a single, accessible assembly usually takes well under an hour. The water to the property, or to the irrigation or fire system the device protects, is shut off briefly while the test is performed. Time can be longer if a device is hard to reach, in a vault, or fails and needs repair.

A standard backflow test is $199 per device. We also offer an annual Service Plan at $185 per year (cancel anytime) and a Prepaid 3-Year Service Plan at $530 ($180 per year). New customers get $25 off. Some water districts charge their own fees, such as San Francisco’s $30 tag fee, which are billed separately, and extra fees may apply to devices 2 inches or larger or that are hard to access.

Yes. After the test we submit the results to your water district in the format it requires, whether that is an online portal, email or a paper form. You can also upload your district’s notice when you book, so we have the device and account details it asks for.

Yes. California’s cross-connection control rules require backflow prevention assemblies that a water supplier requires to be tested at least once a year, whether or not the property is occupied, and again after installation, repair or relocation. Your water supplier enforces this and sends the notice, and some set their own deadlines (for example, the City of Tracy requires tests by June 30 each year).