AC Installation Español
Menu
Backflow Testing
Book Now
Book Now
Blog 02/6/20

Backflow Testing

Points at which a potable water system connects with a non-potable water system are called cross connections. Backflow is the reverse flow of non-potable water, gases or solid material into potable water supply. Common areas of cross connection include irrigation systems, swimming pools and hot tubs.

Potable water, or drinking water, flows in one direction, so when a backflow occurs the water flows back into the potable supply and can contain possible contaminates that will affect your homes drinking water.

Backflows can occur due to changes in pressure when the potable water system is connected to other systems operating at a higher pressure, such as water pumps, boilers and in elevated buildings.  A backsiphonage is another way in which a backflow of water can occur and is caused by a drop or loss of pressure. This can happen by an open fire hydrant, water (and sewer) main breaks and system maintenance.

The solution to keeping your drinking water safe, whether at your business (where they are required by code) or in residential settings, where irrigation and pool systems are present, is with a certified backflow assembly or backflow preventer.

The backflow assembly is a complex system, but at the basic level is uses a one-way valve (check valve) to ensure water flows in one direction, and when no supply is present, the valve remains closed keeping the downstream water from passing into the water supply. There are varying levels of sophistication in backflow preventers depending on the application and needs, but they all work to keep our water supply safe.

Because of their basic function, safety, backflow preventers are regulated by the city. All backflows are required to be maintained and tested on an annual basis. The city can, and will, turn water off to a residence or business if their backflow is not tested by a certified backflow tester or if it fails and is not repaired or replaced. Each backflow tester is required to use specially calibrated equipment, and keep all certifications up to date and all documentation is to be written on every test form.

At Bill Howe, our trained plumbers are also certified in backflow repairs and testing in San Diego. We make it easy and take care of all the testing paperwork, and send it in to the city for our customers.

If you have received your annual test requirement form the city, or perhaps have received a second notice, call 1-800 Bill Howe (245-5469) today. Testing can be scheduled quickly, and if you need repairs, our San Diego plumbers are all highly trained in all backflow needs.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Related Posts

how to fix a running toilet
Blog

How to Fix a Running Toilet

If  your toilet won’t stop running, you will unfortunately end up with a larger water bill than expected. However, it’s easy to learn how to fix a running toilet and take care of the...

2 weeks ago Share Icon
Read More

What David says about us

Service for new garbage disposal. My ancient garbage disposal quit working, went online to get Bill Howe’s number, immediately received and accepted chat to describe my needs. Prompt call back to schedule an appointment, service tech Allen was out same morning, which was important to fit my work schedule. Job estimate was clear, work done fully to my expectations, area left clean, and price was very fair.
I was not surprised — I have used Bill Howe plumbers for several other tasks in the past. I have always found their staff to be helpful, attentive, and the plumbers very courteous and capable.

January 2020

Plumbing

What Michelle says about us

I have been using Bill Howe since the late 1980’s, their service has always been excellent, plumbing, heating and restoration. I am most impressed by the integrity of their employees, not only do they know their work/skill, they do not waste time, they are so efficient, they are so helpful and they are a true “service”!

February 2020

Plumbing

What Mira says about us

Bill Howe never fails us! We had a drain overflow, and Scott came (on a Saturday) to look at it and offer solution. He was punctual, professional, and extremely helpful. I should also praise the main office for always being helpful and always finding solutions. Very grateful to have you in San Diego!

February 2020

Restoration & Flood

What Ed Gohlich says about us

Cory was our technician on this job. We had a time sensitive repair issue and Bill Howe understood and assisted with getting the job done quickly.
Cory was on time to start the job and finished it quickly. Upon his leaving our home he’s was courteous, very knowledgeable, explaining what the problem was and how he fixed it. Very good communication and this is the way it’s has always been when we use Bill Howe plumbing.
Great company to work with.
Thanks Cory.
Ed

August 2019

Heating & Cooling

What Eric says about us

I had a shower that would not drain. The employee arrived on time and fixed the problem quickly and effectively at a very fair price. I was very happy with everything. Thank you and I highly recommend your plumbing service.

January 2019

Plumbing

What Bridgett says about us

I am extremely happy with the service we received from Bill Howe Plumbing. We were given an incorrect diagnosis of our main sewer line from another vendor, but Bill Howe’s servicemen came out for a second opinion, correctly diagnosed our problem and resolved our back up issues. We will continue to use Bill Howe for all our future plumbing needs!

Thank you Bill Howe Plumbing.

July 2019

Plumbing