Backflow Testing
Advanced Irrigation performs backflow testing on all types of backflow assemblies in the greater Puget Sound area. We do backflow testing in Seattle, Mercer Island, Bellevue, Sammamish Plateau and from Tacoma to Everett. We will test your backflow device during any time or date window – 24 / 7. We take the worry out of meeting your backflow test deadline; we are timely, fast, neat, and very reliable. Once finished, we complete all necessary paperwork and submit your backflow report to your local water department.
Fast Response- We have several Certified backflow testers on staff.
Convenient- We will test your backflow assembly or assemblies in a timely and professional manor and submit your backflow test results to your city water department.
Trusted- Expedited backflow service is also available for our customers 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week.
Annual Certification Service – We will automatically Re-Test your backflow device each year before your report is due.
We are Certified, Licensed and Insured Please call 1-888-833-6220, for an appointment or to receive further information about Advanced Irrigation Backflow testing.
Washington State regulation (WAC 246-290-490) plus city and county codes require cross connection control devices be tested annually. A certified tester is required to test these assemblies and send a report to the local water purveyor. Our certified backflow testers will test your backflow device and repair it if necessary.
More about our Backflow Service
Advanced Irrigation has performed backflow testing on all types of backflow prevention systems and devices for over 20 years. We are proud to serve the greater Puget Sound area, we currently service most of the Puget Sound; from Tacoma to Everett this includes Seattle, Mercer Island, Bellevue and Sammamish. Our trustworthy professionals will work with you on a personal basis to get any backflow testing done to your satisfaction on the very first visit. We are dedicated to keeping your drinking water safe while providing you with our service at a fair and competitive price. We know that keeping your home or business and everyone in it safe is important, so we are motivated to provide the best backflow services possible to our valued customers. Annual backflow testing is done to insure your safety by protecting drinking water from harmful toxins such as: fertilizers, weed killers, fire protection chemicals and many more household and industrial products.
We want to give our customers peace of mind by solving problems and making repairs without you having to worry about anything. We utilize our custom database to track inspection dates for you and we will remind you before the city sends their notice.
We provide turnkey testing and repair of all types of backflow devices. We test and certify domestic, irrigation, fire line and other backflow devices. We carry replacement parts for the most popular backflow preventer makes and models and are able to obtain specialty parts in 1-3 business days in most cases. Our dedicated team will take care of the details so that you can concentrate on your daily activities or business.
Let us know what you need; and we’ll be happy to serve you. CUSTOMER SERVICE is our #1 priority, that’s why your needs are the most important thing to us. We take great pride in providing quality backflow testing at a fair and competitive price to ensure that our drinking water is safe. Advanced Irrigation backflow testing is dedicated to keeping your drinking water safe. We work on all approved devices and can replace any obsolete device with one that is on the most current approved list. We complete all forms that must be filed with the different regulating agencies to show compliance. Remember that your water supply can be shut down if you are not compliant with regulations. We can prevent such a shut down, in most cases, or can help you meet regulations so that water supply is restored.
Our testers are both residential and commercial licensed and can help you if you need your backflow prevention devices tested. Backflow testing must be done by licensed backflow prevention testers who hold a current state license in good standing. These testers are the only people authorized to test backflow devices and their testing equipment must be tested and re-certified every year. We are dedicated to serving the needs of our customers in a professional and timely manner. Our service is very fast and we will normally complete backflow certification same day or next. We help reduce your liability by making sure your device is working properly.
We are dedicated to simplifying all your backflow testing needs; including testing, certification, service and maintenance. If your device does not pass the inspection, we have the knowledge and expertise to repair all makes and models of backflow assemblies.
Why are Backflow devices needed?
The need for backflow devices began with the establishing of regulations to protect the public from contaminated water and to protect sources of drinkable water. Backflow testing ensures that your water is safe and is required by your water District. This annual test will help you keep your water clean and safe, and ensure that your backflow device is working properly. Your backflow device protects the quality and safety of your drinking water. It keeps water that passes through it and into the irrigation system from coming back into the water supply. Backflow assemblies can break down and wear out, just like any other mechanical device, which is why annual testing is required. Without a regular backflow inspection, you are leaving your home’s water supply open for contamination Backflow testing is a quick process that will leave you feeling better about the water you drink on a day-to-day basis. We will also add your backflow device to our database and contact you every year to remind you about testing it.
Our service department will certify your backflow device, file all necessary paperwork with your water district and we will also send you a reminder next year before your backflow certification test is due.
Who requires that backflow devices are installed/Tested?
Washington State regulation (WAC 246-290-490) plus city and county codes require cross connection control devices be tested annually.Under the provisions of the Federal Clean Water Act of 1972, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established national standards for safe drinking water. The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters. The basis of the CWA was enacted in 1948 and was called the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, but the Act was significantly reorganized and expanded in 1972. “Clean Water Act” became the Act’s common name with amendments in 1972.These regulations have been strengthened in recent years in response to new threats to public water sources. Regulations require that all public water sources be protected against cross contamination. These requirements are incumbent upon both consumers and water providers. Backflow prevention devices now require annual checking and all water suppliers must also pass annual inspections. Backflow devices are used in plumbing systems to decrease the chances of potable water being contaminated by any debris particles, fertilizers, weed killers, fire protection chemicals , household and industrial products that may gain access into the water and “backflow” into the main water supply.
Backflow testing for all types of properties is required, including:
Office buildings
- Multifamily housing
- Apartment complexes
- Single family residences
- Retail locations
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Restaurants
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Schools and government buildings
- Manufacturing and processing plants
- Agriculture, parks and golf courses
- Sport facilities, water and amusement parks
- Churches, Synagogues, Temples, Mosques
Every backflow prevention device must be tested at least yearly to verify its operation. Failure to do so could allow a backflow event to harm persons dependent on our fresh water supply. Backflow is defined as flow of water traveling backwards, or opposite of its intended direction through the water distribution system. There are over 10,000 reported cases of backflow contamination each year. Some cases can be fatal!
Why is it necessary to inspect my Backflow devices?
The most important reason is for the safety of all who consume water from your home or business. Backflow devices are mechanical in nature and will fail over time. A malfunctioning device could allow backflow and contaminate your drinking water. Any customer who has a backflow device on their property is required to have an annual inspection by a certified backflow tester. Failure to comply could result in a disconnection of water service. It is quite possible and common for the water to flow in the opposite direction in unprotected plumbing systems. This is referred to as backflow. When this happens the water system can become very contaminated with pollutants that could be harmful to water users.
Backflow is often caused by cross-connections that have the potential of allowing contaminants into the drinking water system. A cross- connection exists when plumbing systems are configured in such a way that any source of non-drinkable water or other substances can enter the piping system of a drinking supply.
Back siphonage can occur when the pressure in a tank or water trough is lower than the water system’s pressure. This can allow the influx, or pulling, of contaminated water into the system. Another cause of backflow is back pressure. Back pressure occurs when there is higher water pressure in a fire protection system or in a multi-story building that contaminated water could be forced into the public water system.
Registered backflow devices must also be tested;
- Immediately after their installation
- Annually (at intervals not exceeding 12 months)
- After the completion of maintenance and repair work
- After a backflow or suspected backflow incident
- At the request of your water provider
What happens if my Backflow device fails?
If your device does fail you have several options: 1) Sometimes the BF device can be opened and cleaned after the test procedure, then reassembled and rechecked. Normally there is no charge for this. 2) If cleaning does not rectify the problem or damaged seals, springs or seats are found, replacement parts will need to be ordered. A new appointment will be necessary when the parts arrive. 3) Disconnect from the protected water supply and abandon the cross connection. You will need to notify the water purveyor for a site inspection.
We pride ourselves not only on our work but on how we treat our customers. Our goal is to establish a long term relationship with all of our clients and the only way we can achieve that is by making sure you are happy every time you use our backflow testing services. We are licensed, bonded and insured for your protection.
To Schedule Backflow Testing Please Contact us
1-888-833-6220
Common Backflow Devices
Typical backflow preventers include reduced pressure devices, double check valve assemblies, pressure vacuum breakers, and atmospheric vacuum breakers.
Air Gap:
The easiest way to prevent backflow of water is to install an air gap. The air gaps must be twice the diameter of the pipe and not less than 1 inch. Air gap is an unobstructed, vertical space between the water supply and the flood rim of the receptacle. A physical segregation occurs between the potable water system and the possible source of contamination. Air gaps should be used on direct and inlet connections. They provide protection when toxic material is apparent in water.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker:
Atmospheric vacuum breakers are the simplest and least expensive back-siphonage preventers like pressure vacuum breakers, the atmospheric vacuum breaker cannot be installed where there can be backpressure, only where there can be back siphonage. Backflow caused by back siphonage can be checked by atmospheric vacuum breakers (AVB). These devices do not protect against backflow backpressure situations. AVB is similar to pressure-type vacuum breaker but is not spring-loaded. Also, the vented chamber remains open. Atmospheric-type vacuum breakers can be installed only where the contained water is at atmospheric pressure. The atmospheric vacuum breaker cannot have any shut-off valves downstream of it. It also must be installed at least 6 inches above the highest outlet or the topmost overflow rim of a non- pressure tank
Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventer:
Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventers can be used for high hazard connections and also for internal protection. There should be a minimum clearance of 12 inches above the floor or grade. This is to ensure an air gap beneath the relief valve and any water that could puddle beneath the device. This system includes a check valve in the inlet and outlet with a vented chamber in the middle. The valves are maintained in a closed position via a spring-loaded pin. A test port is also available with this system to determine the operating conditions for the preventer. The maximum height must be chosen in a way that it is feasible to test and maintain the device as and when necessary. Likewise, if the device is in a protective enclosure or is mounted against a wall, the minimum distance must permit testing and maintenance of the device.
Double Check Valve Assembly:
Double-check valve assemblies may not be permitted in all areas. These are used for non- hazard risk installations. A double-check valve assembly is a single device with two check valves in a series flow alignment. The valves are spring-loaded and remain in a closed state. The valves need approximately a pound of pressure to open. The spring loading allows small debris to be captured, yet the valve will seal.
Test apparatuses are included in the system. The valve can be used where the contaminated material is gas, steam, food, air or any substance that is offensive but not hazardous. They can also be tested independently, in place, to determine if they are functioning or clogged.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker:
It should only be used where there may be back siphonage. The pressure vacuum breaker cannot be installed where there is a possibility of backpressure. These are spring-loaded check devices installed in the flow path with a chamber vented to the atmosphere. The pressure vacuum breaker can have zone/shut-off valves down-stream of the device. A pressure vacuum breaker needs to be installed 12 inches above the usage point. The valve stays open and the vented chamber is closed during normal operation. When vacuum occurs, the check closes and the vented chamber opens. If a check valve leakage occurs, only air flows into the potable water line. In case of a check valve leakage, only air flows into the potable water line and backflow of undesirable substances is prevented.