Backflow Prevention FAQs

It is a phenomenon that occurs when clean water (potable) reverses direction causing a suction that pulls dirty water into the clean system. 

In addition to hazardous chemicals, fertilizers, and even human waste, "dirty" water is likely to contain any number of toxic compounds. 

Back-flow is always possible whenever there is a cross-connection of clean (potable) water and "dirty" (non-potable) water.

Your backflow preventer device is tested annually to ensure that there is no unwanted backflow in your water system. 

In addition to monitoring whether the preventer is functioning correctly, it ensures that no repairs or replacements will need to be made.

Most cities throughout California require annual backflow testing in apartment buildings, condominiums, restaurants, and commercial buildings. 

Water for these occupancies therefore is not only safe for consumption, but is also uncontaminated by water from other sources and not cross-contaminated with potable water.

Most Californian and Bay Area municipalities require testing once a year. 

Backflow Inspection Benefits

It is always better to avoid backflow before it happens. Having your home or building tested for backflow annually ensures your water is clean and also ensures the safety of the public.

Backflow prevention assemblies prevent water from flowing backwards by using mechanical devices. In backflow prevention assemblies, there are a number of types including the reduced pressure principle (RP), the double-check valve (DC), the double-check detector (DCDA), the reduced pressure principle detector (RPDA), and the pressure vacuum breaker.

Backflow prevention assemblies are commonly installed directly behind the water meter. Installing a backflow prevention system at the water customer's location prevents the backflow of water into public water supplies from anywhere on the consumer's property.

All dual plumbed facilities must undergo shutdown tests after connection to the District's recycled water system, as well as when the site's potable and/or recycled water plumbing is altered and every year. During the test, the objective is to ensure cross-connection of systems.

The water that flows into your tap from the source is pumped through pressurized water taps. There is a general flow in one direction, but sometimes backflow occurs. In a nutshell, backflow refers to water flowing backward through a system. Water from this well may be contaminated with harmful bacteria and should not be consumed. It's impossible to predict when backflow will occur because the water main could break or there could be a high demand at the water hydrant, and testing is essential.

If the assembly is held in an area that requires special access, you, or a representative, need to be present. It is not necessary to be on site for installations where the backflow prevention assembly is located outside without locks, chains, cages, or other protective enclosures. Although this is not mandatory, we prefer to meet our clients, so they can ask questions during the visit, and we can address any concerns.

All documents are submitted to the water utility or the health department on your behalf.

For most models, we can provide a same-day service if your backflow prevention assembly fails to pass the testing. Should repair parts not be readily available, we will submit a formal bid for repairs, refurbishments, or replacement.