As a bonded and insured licensed contractor, we help you determine your regulatory requirements, assess hazard levels, select approved backflow prevention assemblies, conduct site preparation and perform the actual backflow device installation in a professional manner that ensures your regulatory compliance and provides the peace of mind you deserve.
2 Year Warranty + Annual Backflow Testing Included
State regulations require that residential, commercial and industrial property owners install backflow prevention assemblies in various circumstances to protect the public water system from potential contamination. Backflow Test Pros is 100% dedicated to ensuring property owners meet backflow installation requirements so you can avoid civil penalties and ensure your water is not turned off for noncompliance.
Ensure you're fully compliant with specific city, county and water districts backflow prevention requirements
Ensure your backflow assembly installation clears local permitting requirements and plans approvals
Ensure your installed backflow device is USC FCCCHR approved and meets hazard level requirements
Free initial functionality testing, same day-same certification and follow up annual backflow testing
Best value guarantee. Schedule your installtion today with confidence knowing you're receiving best in class service, warranty and following up testing for the most competitive price.
Backflow Test Pros specializes in the installation and certification testing of all devices from 1/2"-10" including: Reduced Pressure Principle, Double Check Valve, Pressure Vacuum Breakers, & Spill Resistant Vacuum Breakers.
Our national, state and local municipality certified specialists provide the best value in backflow prevention installation, testing and repair services by combining competitive pricing with premium service and unmatched expertise.
With priority scheduling, installation permitting, site preparation, documentation, hazard level assessment, approved device selection, functional validation testing, test report submission, same-day certification, and multi-device discounts; we provide the industry's premier backflow installation services with included 2 year warranty and free testing at most competitive rates.
The inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices are essential for ensuring the safety of the water supply and compliance with state and local regulations. Hiring a certified backflow tester to perform backflow prevention testing and accurate timely reporting of test documentation is key to ensuring compliance with state and municipal water department regulations
The first step in any backflow prevention device installation is determining the specific requirements for your property, system, and jurisdiction.
This involves a careful review of local plumbing codes, water district regulations, and any additional city or county ordinances that govern backflow prevention. Requirements can vary significantly depending on the type of water system you’re connecting to—whether it’s domestic potable water, irrigation, fire protection, or industrial processes.
A hazard level assessment must also be conducted to classify the property’s water system as low, moderate, or high hazard. This classification determines the type of device that must be installed.
For example, systems that handle chemicals, pesticides, or bodily fluids (such as those in medical or laboratory environments) are classified as high hazard and require more robust protection like a Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly (RPZ).
These and other factors must be considered before selecting the correct device and beginning installation.
Moreover, some backflow installation scenarios may require permitting. That said, not all municipalities explicitly require an backflow installation permit in all cases even though in many instances a separate permit for the installation of backflow devices is indeed required.
If, for example, the installation involves work within the public right-of-way, such as connecting to the city water main or meter box, a separate permit from the Public Works Department is required.
Likewise, for existing buildings, the installation of a backflow prevention device may be required depending on the extent of remodeling and the potential for contamination to the public water supply.
If the installation is part of a larger plumbing project or involves modifications to the existing plumbing system, for instance, a plumbing permit or water quality permit may be necessary.
The process includes submitting plans for review and obtaining approval before installation.
Before commencing any installation, it's advisable to contact the particular municipality's Public Works or Building and Safety Division to determine the specific permits needed for your project.
Once regulatory and site-specific requirements are understood, the next step is selecting the appropriate backflow prevention assembly.
The device must match the assessed hazard level of the system and be listed on an approved devices list—commonly issued by health departments or testing institutions like the University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR).
Each municipality or water district has its own approved device list, installation standards conforming to standards established by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research at the University of Southern California.
For high-hazard applications, such as those involving chemical use or systems with the potential for significant contamination, an RPZ assembly is typically required. RPZs provide the highest level of protection and include a relief valve to discharge any backflow.
For medium-hazard systems, such as standard irrigation without chemical injection, a Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) is often sufficient.
Systems at lower risk, like residential irrigation or hose bibs, may be protected using Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVBs) or Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVBs), though the latter cannot be subjected to continuous pressure.
Selecting the wrong device can result in a failed inspection or, worse, contamination of the potable water supply.
In California, the installation of a Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer (RP) is governed by both state regulations and local water agency requirements. These devices are essential for protecting potable water supplies from contamination due to backflow caused by backpressure or backsiphonage.
Typical Applications of Reduced Pressure Principle Devices
Reduced Pressure Principle backflow preventers are the most common type of backflow preventer in California and can be used for a wide variety of applications.
Commercial buildings, and some homes will almost exclusively require this type of device.
Here are some examples of potential installations: Main plumbing line, Irrigation line, Fire Sprinkler System, Pump System, Pool, Food Processing Line, Chiller, Multi Family Home, Brewery, Hospital, Dialysis Machine, Reclaimed Water Supply, Auxiliary Water Supply, Autoclave, Autopsy Table, Boiler, Commercial Dishwashers, Car Washing Machine, Carbonators, Chemical Dispenser, Cookers, Heat Exchanger, Lab Equipment, Portable Cleaning Equipment, & Sewage Ejector.
Statewide Installation Requirements
Under the Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook, RP devices must:
- Be Approved: Devices must be approved by recognized testing organizations, such as the University of Southern California's Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCCHR).
- Conform to Standards: RP devices must, at a minimum, conform to the AWWA Standard C506-78 (R83) for Reduced Pressure Principle Type Backflow Prevention Devices.
- Be Installed Above Ground: RP devices must be installed above ground and as close as practical to the user's connection.
- Be Readily Accessible: Devices should be installed in a location that is readily accessible for testing and maintenance.
General Installation Guidelines
While specific requirements can vary by local jurisdiction, common installation practices include:
- Height Above Grade: Install the RP device with the relief valve at least 12 inches above the surrounding ground or floor level to prevent submersion and allow proper drainage. Maximum height for relief valve shall be no greater than 36".
- Clearances: Maintain adequate clearance around the device for maintenance and testing, typically a minimum of 12 inches on all sides.
- Drainage: Provide a drain funnel or air gap drain line to safely discharge water from the relief valve without causing flooding or contamination.
- Protection from Freezing: In areas subject to freezing temperatures, protect the device with insulation or enclosures, ensuring that the relief valve discharge is not obstructed.
- No Subgrade Installations: Do not install RP devices in pits or vaults below ground level, as this can lead to flooding and contamination risks.
Local Considerations
Local water agencies may have additional requirements:
- Proximity to Water Meter: Some jurisdictions require the RP device to be installed within a specific distance (e.g., 5 to 10 feet) from the water meter.
- Permits and Inspections: Installation may require permits and must be inspected by the local water authority.
- Testing: Devices must be tested upon installation and annually thereafter by a certified backflow prevention assembly tester.
For a comprehensive understanding of backflow prevention installation requirements, refer to the California Code of Regulations, Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook, and consult with your local water authority or Call Backflow Test Pros for guidance on backflow device installation best practices.
In California, the installation of a Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) for backflow prevention is governed by the California Code of Regulations (CCR), and Cross Connection Policy Handbook. These assemblies are designed to prevent non-health hazard pollutants from entering the potable water supply due to backpressure or backsiphonage.
Typical Applications for DCV- Double Check Valve Backflow Devices
Double Check Valve Backflow Preventers are typically installed on fire sprinkler systems or on hazards that pose a low level threat to the water supply, which are called pollutants.
Typical applications include Fire Systems, and Main Lines for Homes posing minimal cross connection risk.
Statewide Installation Requirements
While specific requirements can vary by local jurisdiction, common installation practices include:
- Device Approval and StandardsCompliance with Standards: DCVAs must conform to the American Water Works Association (AWWA) Standard C510 for Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assemblies.
- Installation Location and OrientationProximity to Connection: The assembly should be installed as close as practical to the user's connection.Above-Grade Installation: While above-grade installation is preferred, DCVAs may be installed below grade in a vault, provided they are readily accessible for testing and maintenance.
- Accessibility and ClearancesReadily Accessible: The assembly must be installed in a location that is accessible for testing and maintenance.Clearances: Maintain adequate clearance around the device, typically a minimum of 12 inches on all sides, to facilitate maintenance and testing.
General Installation Guidelines
- Orientation. DCVAs are typically installed horizontally, as per manufacturer specifications.
- Protection from Freezing. In areas subject to freezing temperatures, protect the device with insulation or enclosures, ensuring that the relief valve discharge is not obstructed.
- Proper Drainage. Ensure that the installation site has adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation, especially if installed below grade.
Local Considerations
Local water agencies may have additional requirements:
Permits and Inspections: Installation may require permits and must be inspected by the local water authority.
Testing: Devices must be tested upon installation and annually thereafter by an AWWA certified backflow prevention assembly tester.
For a comprehensive understanding of backflow prevention installation requirements, refer to the California Code of Regulations, Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook, and consult with your local water authority or Call Backflow Test Pros for guidance on backflow device installation best practices.
Proper site preparation is critical for a safe, compliant, and maintainable installation.
The location of the backflow prevention device must allow for required clearance and accessibility for annual testing, maintenance, and possible repairs.
Generally, at least 12 inches of clearance around the device is recommended, and the assembly must be installed at a minimum elevation—often 12 inches above grade or above the highest downstream outlet, depending on the device type.
RPZ assemblies, which have a relief valve that can discharge water under pressure, must be installed in locations that can accommodate drainage, such as above a floor drain or with a dedicated indirect waste line. When installing outdoors, the device should be protected from freezing temperatures using an insulated and ventilated enclosure or installed indoors if allowed by code.
Additionally, installers should ensure a solid and level mounting surface such as a concrete pad or wall bracket to support the device and prevent shifting or vibrations that could damage the assembly or connected piping.
In some cases, particularly for larger commercial systems, isolation valves and drain lines may also need to be pre-installed or planned for in advance.
After site preparation, the actual installation of the backflow prevention assembly can proceed.
The water supply must first be shut off upstream to prevent flooding or contamination during installation. Shutoff valves are installed both upstream and downstream of the assembly to allow for isolation during future testing or maintenance.
Many jurisdictions also require test cocks to be installed on the device to facilitate testing.
The orientation of the device is crucial; some devices such as RPZs and DCVAs must be installed in a horizontal configuration unless otherwise rated by the manufacturer for vertical use.
PVBs and AVBs must be installed vertically and always above the highest downstream outlet to function correctly.
The choice of pipe materials is also important—copper, brass, stainless steel, and approved plastic materials such as Schedule 40 or 80 PVC may be used, but galvanized steel should be avoided in potable systems due to corrosion concerns.
All connections should be secure and allow for easy disassembly, usually by using unions or flanges.
Once the device is installed and secured in place, it should be labeled appropriately, and the site should be cleaned up and inspected for leaks or alignment issues.
The final stage of installation involves testing and certifying the backflow prevention device to ensure it operates correctly and provides the level of protection required.
This initial test is a critical step in verifying the integrity and safety of the water system and establishes a baseline for future annual testing and maintenance. Proper records allow property owners, municipalities, and testing professionals to track device performance over time.
This must be done by a certified backflow prevention assembly tester, who will use calibrated testing equipment to evaluate the device’s check valves and relief valves under both normal and fault conditions.
The initial test must be completed immediately after installation, and the results must typically be submitted to the local water authority or environmental health department using a standardized form.
The tester checks key components such as check valves and relief valves for proper operation, and records pressure differentials to confirm the device meets specified performance criteria.
After performing a test, certified testers must submit a backflow test report to the local water authority. This report must include:
- Test results (e.g., pressure readings, flow rates, and whether the device passed or failed).
- Testers’ certifications and contact information.Device information, including manufacturer, model number, and serial number.
- Description of any repairs if the device failed the test and was subsequently fixed or replaced.
Most municipalities require the test report to be submitted within a few days or weeks of the test, often by the end of the calendar year for annual tests.
Property owners are responsible for keeping a record of all backflow test results and ensuring timely compliance with future testing schedules.
Following the installation of a backflow prevention device, all findings are documented in a test report, which is often submitted to the appropriate local or municipal authority.
Backflow test report documentation is a critical part of the backflow testing process, as it serves as an official record of the test results, confirming that backflow prevention devices are functioning properly.
Proper documentation protects the tester, property owner, and any contractors involved in the installation and maintenance of the backflow preventer.
These reports are usually submitted to local authorities, water utilities, or building owners to ensure compliance with local regulations and water safety standards.
The reporting requirements for a backflow prevention device test can vary depending on local and regional regulations.
In most cases, the test results are submitted to the city’s water authority or municipal utility department responsible for drinking water quality and infrastructure.
In some areas, especially where there is no municipal water department, the county health department or county water authority may oversee backflow prevention programs.
Factors That Determine Who Gets the Report:
- Jurisdictional Authority: The responsible agency is typically based on who manages the local water supply—city or county.
- Type of Property: Commercial, industrial, or agricultural properties may be subject to additional oversight, possibly involving the county health department. Residential installations are usually handled by the city or local water purveyor.
- Type of Device and Risk Level: High-hazard applications (e.g., chemical plants, irrigation systems with fertilizers) may require reporting to multiple agencies, including environmental or health departments. Low-hazard devices may only require filing with the local water authority.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities or counties have specific rules requiring submission to both city and county agencies or to a centralized database.
- Best Practice: Always best to check with the local water provider or building department at the time of installation to determine exactly where test reports must be submitted.
Certified testers often know the local requirements and submit reports accordingly.
State regulations mandate and California municipalities generally require annual testing of backflow prevention devices for properties that are connected to the public water supply and pose a potential contamination risk. This includes commercial properties, multi-family residential buildings, industrial sites, and certain high-risk areas.
Only certified backflow testers are authorized to conduct backflow testing in California. Testers must be certified by a recognized agency, such as the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) or other approved certifying organizations.
Backflow test reports are submitted to the municipal office responsible for overseeing backflow compliance either through the document submission electronic portal, by email or by the postal service as specified by each city.
In many instances, test reports may also be required to be submitted to the County Health Department and the local water supplier.
Reports should be submitted individually by location on approved forms as PDF attachments.
Our highly experienced backflow installationn technicians know how to conduct a hazard level assessment to determine the type of device that must be installed. Additionally, our certified backflow installation experts confirm whether the device can be placed indoors or outdoors, what kind of freeze protection or drainage is needed, and whether elevation or enclosure requirements apply before selecting the correct device and beginning installation.
Relying on Backflow Testing Pros' licensed, certified and bonded professionals ensures that your backflow assembly installation is performed by certified cross connection control and backflow prevention experts in a timely manner conforming to backflow prevention installation and maintenance protocols required by state water board regulations and backflow prevention certification bodies.
