Washington and Oregon both require all backflow devises to be tested annually and results submitted to your water provider.  We are happy to set you up with pre-scheduled annual testing services!

Under certain circumstances, a backflow assembly may be able to be repaired.

Cost-Effective: Repairing a backflow prevention devise is typically more cost-effective than replacing it entirely. In many cases, a qualified technician can identify and address the specific issue that is causing the device to malfunction, saving the property owner from the expense of full replacement.
Continued Compliance: Repairing the device allows it to continue providing protection against backflow, ensuring that the property remains in compliance with local regulations and avoids potential legal issues.

Replacing a back flow prevention devise may be necessary for several reasons:

Age and Wear: Like any mechanical device, backflow prevention assemblies have a limited life span. Over time, the internal components can wear out or deteriorate, which may compromise the device’s effectiveness.

Damage: Physical damage to the backflow prevention device, such as cracks, corrosion, or other forms of structural damage, can render it ineffective. Damaged devices need to be replaced to ensure the continued protection of the water supply.
Failure During Testing: Backflow prevention devices are typically required to be tested annually to ensure they are functioning correctly. If a device fails a test and cannot be repaired, it must be replaced to maintain compliance with local regulations.

Most commonly, homes have backflow devises to protect the safety of your drinking water supply from contamination from your sprinkler system or fire prevention systems. This ensures the homeowner is in compliance with plumbing codes and regulations and keeps your drinking water safe to drink.

There are a number of reasons commercial buildings are required to have backflow systems.

Protection of the potable (drinking) water supply: The primary purpose of backflow prevention devises in commercial buildings is to protect the quality and safety of the potable water supply. These devices prevent the reverse flow of potentially contaminated or non-potable water from entering the clean water supply within the building’s plumbing system.
Preventing Cross-Contamination: Commercial buildings use water for various purposes, such as cooling systems, fire sprinklers, irrigation systems, and chemical processes. Without backflow prevention devices, there is a risk that water supply, introducing contaminants, chemicals, or pollutants.
Environmental Protection: In certain commercial settings, such as industrial facilities, backflow prevention is crucial to prevent the release of chemicals or pollutants into the environment through the public water supply.
Regulation of High-Hazard Systems: Commercial buildings with high-hazard systems, such as large boilers or chemical storage tanks, may have specific regulatory requirements for backflow prevention to prevent potential harm to the public and environment.