Frequently Asked Questions

Having your backflow prevention assembly tested annually is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, backflow prevention assemblies are designed to protect your water supply from contamination by preventing the reversal of water flow. Over time, these assemblies can develop issues or become faulty, compromising their ability to function effectively. By conducting an annual test, you can ensure that your backflow prevention assembly is working properly and maintaining the integrity of your water supply. Secondly, local regulations and building codes often require annual testing to comply with safety standards. Failing to adhere to these regulations can result in penalties or even legal consequences. Regular testing demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a safe water system and helps you stay in compliance with the necessary requirements. Lastly, annual testing provides an opportunity to identify any potential problems early on. Identifying and addressing issues promptly can prevent more extensive damage, reduce the risk of contamination, and save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future. Therefore, by having your backflow prevention assembly tested annually, you prioritize the safety and quality of your water supply, comply with regulations, and mitigate potential risks. 

We cover the following cities:

- Austin

- Round Rock

- Cedar Park

- Leander

- Georgetown

- Liberty Hill

- Pflugerville

- Hutto

- Taylor

- Kyle

- Buda

- San Marcos

- New Braunfels

- Lakeway

When your backflow was installed, it was tested as part of the plumbing inspection, but because of the volume of backflow preventers being installed and the large number of existing backflow preventers in various lower mainland cities, it is not easy 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 our water, many cities are taking better steps to inform people when their annual test is due. 

A backflow preventer is a mechanical device designed to protect the purity and safety of a water supply by preventing the reverse flow of water. It is commonly used in plumbing systems to safeguard against the contamination of potable water. Backflow can occur when there is a change in pressure within a water system, causing water to flow backward, potentially carrying contaminants or pollutants from non-potable sources back into the clean water supply. These conditions are known as back pressure and backsiphonage. A backflow preventer consists of various components, including check valves, pressure differentials, and air gaps, depending on the specific type and model. These mechanisms work together to ensure that water flows in only one direction, preventing any potential backflow and protecting the integrity of the water supply. Backflow preventers are essential in many settings, including residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities, to maintain the safety and quality of the water that we use for all applications.

Backsiphonage refers to a specific type of backflow that occurs when there is a sudden drop in water pressure within a plumbing system. This drop in pressure creates a vacuum or negative pressure, causing the water to flow in the reverse direction, potentially drawing contaminants or pollutants into the clean water supply. This is prevented with a working backflow prevention assembly.

An air gap is a physical separation created to prevent contamination in a water supply. It involves maintaining a vertical gap between the water outlet and potential sources of contamination. This visible gap, seen in fixtures like sinks or through specialized devices in complex plumbing systems, utilizes atmospheric air as a barrier. By preventing backflow or cross-contamination, air gaps are reliable and mandated in various settings to ensure the safety and purity of the water supply, particularly in high-risk environments such as commercial kitchens and medical facilities.