Backflow preventers keep contaminated water from flowing backward into the public water supply. Because they contain moving parts that wear over time, many municipalities require commercial properties to have them tested every year.
What Is Backflow?
Backflow happens when water flows in the opposite direction from normal, usually because of a drop in supply pressure or a rise in downstream pressure. A backflow preventer is a valve assembly that blocks it.
Who Usually Needs Testing?
- Restaurants and commercial kitchens.
- Properties with irrigation systems or fire sprinklers.
- Multi-tenant and mixed-use buildings.
- Medical, industrial, and food-processing facilities.
Check Local Requirements
Testing rules, deadlines, and reporting procedures vary by municipality. Confirm what applies to your property with your local water authority.
What to Expect During a Test
A certified tester connects gauges to the assembly, checks that its internal valves hold pressure correctly, and records the results. If it fails, repair or replacement is usually needed before the results can be filed.
