Backflow Testing and Repairs
Why do I need my “Backflow Prevention Assembly” tested annually?
The Short version is that it’s required by law and you are taking a tremendous liability risk by not having the test done on an annual basis.
Backflow prevention assemblies break or wear out, just like the parts of a car. By having your backflow assembly tested annually, you will help to ensure that the drinking water supplied to your business or home remains safe. Because of this the Uniform Plumbing Code Section 603.3.3, and California Department of Health Services Title 17 section 7065, require by law, the annual testing of all backflow assemblies, thus insuring the safety of the public water supply as well as your drinking water.
***Only CA/NV AWWA certified testers can inspect, test, repair or replace backflow prevention assemblies in the State of California***
Why have I never had to test my Backflow before?
When your Backflow was installed it was tested prior to plumbing inspection; but because of the volume of backflow preventers being installed and the large number of existing backflow devices, it’s difficult for municipalities to keep you informed of when your Backflow is due to be tested.
However, due to increased awareness of the importance of protecting the public water supply, the California Department of Health Services, and local water purveyors are taking better steps to ensure compliance of the annual testing of all backflow devices.
What is a cross-connection?
A cross-connection is any actual or potential connection between a potable (drinking water) water system and any other source through which it is possible to introduce into any part of the potable system a non-potable
An example is the piping between a public water system or consumer’s potable water system and an irrigation system.
What is a Backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is a mechanical device consisting of independently loaded and operating check valves and relief valves used to prevent different levels of cross connections. The principal types of mechanical backflow preventers are the reduced-pressure principle assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check valve assembly.
What is an air gap?
An air gap is a vertical, physical separation between the end of a water supply outlet and the flood-level rim of a receiving vessel. This separation must be at least twice the diameter of the water supply outlet and never less than one inch. An air gap is considered the maximum protection available against back pressure Backflow or backsiphonage, but is not always practical and can be easily bypassed
What is a reduced principle (RP) assembly?
An RP is a mechanical Backflow preventer that consists of two independently acting, spring-loaded check valves with a hydraulically operating, mechanically independent, spring-loaded pressure differential relief valve between the check valves and below the first check valve. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with 4 test cocks. An RP is effective against back pressure and backsiphonage and may be used to isolate health or non-health hazards.
What is a pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) assembly?
A PVB assembly is a mechanical preventer that consists of an independently acting, spring-loaded check valve and an independently acting, spring-loaded, air inlet valve on the discharge side of the check valve. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with test cocks. A PVB may be used to isolate non- health hazards, but is effective against backsiphonage only.
What is a double check valve assembly?
A DCVA is a mechanical Backflow preventer that consists of two independently acting, spring-loaded check valves. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with test cocks. A DC is effective against back pressure and back siphoning but shall only be used to isolate non- health hazards.
National Backflow incidents
- Source: American Backflow Prevention Association
- Source: American Backflow Prevention Association
- Source: Town of Castle Rock, CO
- University of Florida
- Lincoln, NE InterLinc
Capitol Fire & Backflow
Phone: (916) 838-2338
Mike@capitolfireandbackflow.com