Backflow Prevention
Testing & Certification Services
Received an annual backflow testing notice from your county utility? Backflow preventers protect public drinking water from contamination. We are certified backflow testers providing annual testing, device repairs, and state/county report filing across Virginia. Call today to schedule your testing!
Backflow Valve Leaking? Isolate Water Instantly
If your outdoor backflow preventer is leaking or discharging water continuously, it may have failed. Locate the shutoff ball valve on the inlet side of the backflow assembly and turn the handle flat (perpendicular to the pipe) to stop the water flow. Call us immediately to repair or replace the valve assembly.
Protect Your Drinking Water with Certified Backflow Testing
Backflow occurs when a drop in water pressure causes water from irrigation systems, fire sprinklers, or commercial boilers to flow backward into your clean drinking water supply. To prevent this, municipalities require backflow prevention assemblies to be installed and tested annually. At Virginia Plumbing Company, we provide certified backflow testing, repair, and county report filing.
Our certified testers use calibrated differential pressure gauges to verify that check valves and relief ports hold pressure and open at code-mandated levels. If your assembly fails the test, we replace worn rubber seals and springs to restore performance.
After completing the test, we handle the paperwork. We submit the certification reports directly to your county water authority (such as Fairfax County, Richmond DPU, or HRSD), keeping you compliant with local regulations. If you need new fixture hookups, see our fixture replacement services.
Our certified testers inspect and certify residential and commercial backflow assemblies.
Virginia Water Utility Testing Mandates
Virginia DPOR and local water utilities mandate annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies. Failing to submit certification forms can lead to fines or water service shutoffs. Our team keeps you compliant by handling the testing and reporting.
If your backflow valve fails or leaks, we offer fast repairs. If you have indoor pipe leaks, our emergency plumbing team is ready 24/7. We also recommend checking water quality. Our team installs water filtration systems to keep your drinking water clean and scale-free.
What to Do While You Wait for Our Crew
Prepare for your annual backflow test with these simple steps:
1. Have Forms Ready
Locate the notice and forms received from your water company. Having the account numbers and mailing addresses ready speeds up county filing.
2. Clear Valve Access
Ensure the path to your backflow valve assembly is clear. If it is located in a basement utility closet or crawl space, clear out stored items.
3. Coordinate Shutoff
Backflow testing requires shutting off the water supply for 10 to 15 minutes. Coordinate with family members to avoid running water during testing.
Our Backflow Testing Process
Here is how our certified technicians inspect and certify your backflow prevention device:
Visual Inspection
We inspect the backflow assembly for cracks, corrosion, and leaks. We verify it is installed with clearance and meets code.
Gauge Connection
We attach our differential pressure test kit to the test cocks on the backflow device, isolating the valve checks.
Pressure Testing
We measure the pressure drop across each check valve. For RPZ valves, we verify the relief valve opens before pressure drops below 2 PSI.
County Report Filing
We fill out the state/county certification forms, note the pressure readings, and submit the reports to your local water utility.
Backflow Device Types Comparison
Compare common backflow preventers used in residential and commercial plumbing:
- Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assemblies: The safest backflow preventer. RPZ valves feature two independent check valves and a relief valve. Required for high-hazard connections.
- Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA): Feature two check valves in series. DCVA valves are commonly used for lawn sprinkler systems and fire lines where hazard level is low.
- Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB): A simple valve that utilizes air pressure to prevent back-siphonage. Installed at least 12 inches above the highest sprinkler head.
Our certified testers service all backflow preventer types. If you have mineral scale buildup in your pipes, see our water softener services. If you have blocked drains, see our drain snaking services.
Backflow Testing & Service Invoices
We offer flat-rate pricing. Here are common estimates for backflow services:
Note: Final prices depend on accessibility, system size, and severity. We provide a firm quote before any work begins.
Backflow Testing FAQs
Answers to common questions about backflow prevention, county mandates, and repairs:
Like any mechanical device, backflow preventers have internal rubber seals, springs, and moving parts that wear out over time.
Annual testing verifies that the check valves hold pressure and the relief port opens at code-mandated levels, protecting public drinking water.
If the device fails, it must be repaired or replaced. Most failures are caused by sand, dirt, or mineral scale preventing the check valves from sealing.
We can repair most devices on-site by taking the valve body apart, cleaning the checks, and replacing the rubber seals and springs.
Our certified technicians handle the paperwork. We submit the completed reports directly to your local water utility and provide a copy for your records.
Yes, we must turn off your water supply for 10 to 15 minutes during testing to measure the pressure holding capacity of the check valves.
We coordinate the shutoff to minimize disruption to your household or business.