Backflow Prevention Services

Backflow prevention services stop fertilizers, pesticides, and soil bacteria from reversing into your drinking water supply, and maintain the annual test certifications water utilities require on every testable assembly. Bonded Plumbworks’ BPAT-certified technicians test with calibrated Watts TG-4 differential pressure gauges and install Watts Series 909 RPZ assemblies for high-hazard connections or Wilkins 375 double check valve assemblies for medium-hazard contamination risk.

What Is Backflow Prevention

Backflow prevention refers to the installation and maintenance of mechanical devices that ensure water flows in only one direction through a plumbing system. When water pressure drops due to a water main break, fire hydrant use, or pump failure, contaminated water from irrigation systems, swimming pools, or chemical storage can siphon backward into the potable water supply. A backflow preventer creates a physical barrier between clean and contaminated water sources. An air gap — a physical vertical separation between a water outlet and the flood rim of a receiving fixture — provides the simplest form of backflow prevention and requires no mechanical parts. The state department of environmental protection mandates annual testing of all commercial and high-hazard residential backflow prevention assemblies to verify proper function.

Backflow Preventer Selection by Application and Hazard Level

Minimum Air Gap Requirements for Backflow Prevention by Fixture

Signs You Need Backflow Prevention

• Your water has an unusual taste, color, or odor that was not present before
• You notice discolored water coming from faucets after a water main break or hydrant flushing
• Your property has an irrigation system connected to the municipal water supply without a dedicated backflow device
• You received a compliance notice from the local water utility requiring backflow preventer installation or testing
• Your water pressure fluctuates significantly, indicating potential cross-connection issues
• You are installing a new swimming pool, spa, or irrigation system that ties into your home water line
• Your existing backflow preventer failed its annual certification test
• You have a fire sprinkler system connected to your domestic water supply

Our Backflow Prevention Process

Step 1 — Cross-Connection Survey and Hazard Assessment

Our licensed plumber conducts a thorough cross-connection survey of your entire property following the AWWA M14 guidance document, which establishes the standard methodology for identifying cross-connections and specifying protection levels in residential and commercial backflow prevention programs. This assessment identifies every point where non-potable water could contact the potable supply, including irrigation connections, pool fill lines, boiler feeds, and chemical injection systems. We classify each hazard level according to the American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards to determine which type of backflow preventer is required. Backflow prevention inspection gives you a live view of the problem before any work starts. You review the findings and approve the quote before any repair begins.

Step 2 — Backflow Preventer Selection

Based on the hazard assessment, we select the appropriate backflow prevention assembly for your application. Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assemblies provide the highest level of protection for high-hazard connections. Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA) serve medium-hazard applications. Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB) and Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB) protect irrigation and outdoor connections. We use Watts, Wilkins, and Febco backflow prevention devices exclusively.

Step 3 — Professional Installation

Our technician installs the backflow preventer at the designated location, typically near the water meter or at the point of connection for the protected system. Installation includes proper orientation, adequate clearance for testing access, and compliance with the Uniform Plumbing Code height and distance requirements. We use brass fittings, stainless steel fasteners, and copper or PEX supply connections rated for your system pressure.

Step 4 — Differential Pressure Testing

After installation, we perform a differential pressure test using a Watts TG-4 or Mid-West 845 backflow test kit. This test verifies that the check valves seat properly, the relief valve operates at the correct differential, and the entire assembly prevents backflow under simulated conditions. Test results are recorded on the state-approved form. Each annual test report documents valve serial numbers, test pressures, pass/fail results, and tester credentials — creating the compliance record required by the backflow prevention program. Backflow test management software tracks test schedules, generates automated reminders, and files reports electronically with water utilities, streamlining the backflow prevention compliance workflow for properties with multiple assemblies.

Step 5 — Certification and Compliance Filing

We submit your backflow test results directly to the local water utility and your local water provider. The backflow test report includes device type, serial number, test date, pressure readings, and the certified tester’s license number — documentation the utility requires before approving continued service. Bonded Plumbworks maintains certified backflow prevention assembly tester credentials. We provide you with a copy of the certification for your records and schedule your next annual test to maintain continuous compliance.

Equipment and Materials

Bonded Plumbworks installs and services backflow prevention devices from industry-leading manufacturers. We use Watts Series 009 and 909 RPZ assemblies for high-hazard protection, Wilkins (Zurn) 375 and 975XL double check valve assemblies for medium-hazard applications, and Febco 765 pressure vacuum breakers for irrigation systems. Testing is performed with calibrated Watts TG-4 and Mid-West Instruments 845 differential pressure test kits. All installations use Mueller and Ford meter connections, brass gate valves, and stainless steel test cocks. Pipe materials include Type L copper, Schedule 80 PVC, and SharkBite push-fit fittings for accessible locations.

Why Choose Bonded Plumbworks for Backflow Prevention

Bonded Plumbworks has provided backflow prevention services since 2006. Our plumbers hold ASSE 5013 certified tester credentials for testing backflow prevention assemblies and ASSE 5015 certified tester credentials for surveying cross-connections — the two professional certifications that authorize comprehensive backflow prevention work. The ASSE 5110/5013/5015 certified backflow tester designation confirms competency across installation, testing, and cross-connection control — qualifications our plumbers maintain through continuing education. Our plumbers hold certified backflow prevention assembly tester credentials in addition to their journeyman and master plumber licenses. We are members of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) and maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Every backflow installation meets or exceeds the applicable state building codes, the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), and EPA Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. We provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees, same-day service availability, and a written warranty on all backflow prevention work.

Backflow Prevention Pricing

Backflow prevention services range from $100 for an annual certification test to $1,500 or more for a high-hazard RPZ assembly installation. Common price ranges include:

• Annual backflow preventer testing: $100 – $200
• Irrigation PVB installation: $300 – $600
• Double check valve assembly (DCVA): $400 – $800
• Reduced pressure zone (RPZ) installation: $800 – $1,500
• Cross-connection survey: $200 – $400

Every backflow prevention estimate is based on the hazard assessment findings, so you know the exact scope and cost before work begins. Call Bonded Plumbworks at (855) 557-9600 for a written quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does backflow preventer installation cost?

Backflow preventer installation typically ranges from $300 to $1,200 depending on the type of assembly required. Residential irrigation PVB installations fall on the lower end, while RPZ assemblies for high-hazard connections cost more due to the complexity of the device and installation. Bonded Plumbworks provides a written estimate before any work begins.

Where can I find backflow prevention testing near me?

Bonded Plumbworks provides certified backflow prevention testing across all 39 cities. Our testers carry calibrated equipment and file results directly with your water provider. Call (855) 557-9600 to schedule your annual backflow test.

How often does a backflow preventer need to be tested?

Applicable state administrative codes require annual testing of all testable backflow prevention assemblies. An annual inspection program ensures each device is tested on schedule, with results filed to the utility before the certification period expires. Your water utility may require more frequent testing for high-hazard connections. Bonded Plumbworks tracks your test schedule and sends reminders before your certification expires.

What happens if my backflow preventer fails the annual test?

If your backflow preventer fails its certification test, repairs must be completed and the device retested before a passing certificate can be issued. Common failure points include worn check valve seats, damaged relief valve diaphragms, and corroded o-ring seals. Our technicians carry replacement parts for all major brands and can often repair and retest the same day.

Does backflow prevention work come with a guarantee?

Backflow prevention installations from Bonded Plumbworks include a written warranty on all parts and labor. Every backflow preventer is pressure-tested and certified at installation. If any backflow prevention component we installed fails within the warranty period, we return and correct it at no additional cost.

Schedule Backflow Prevention Today

Protect your drinking water and stay compliant with applicable backflow prevention requirements. Call Bonded Plumbworks at (855) 557-9600 to schedule backflow preventer installation, annual testing, or repair service. Same-day appointments available. Every backflow prevention service includes a 90-day guarantee on backflow prevention work, covering parts and labor.

Bonded Plumbworks’ backflow prevention services are available across Florida — see all service locations.