All You Need to Know About Backflow Testing

There’re a lot of costs and appointments associated with businesses and homeownership, like having annual backflow testing. The State of Illinois requires you to have backflow testing at least once per year with a licensed plumber. If you fail to complete the test and submit the necessary documents, you will be fined between $50 – $500 per day and risk the termination of your water service until the test is done.

However, even if the government doesn’t mandate the testing annually, it’s wise to have the test done on your plumbing unit. When the plumbing system fails, and water flows backward, it can cause the fresh water supply to be contaminated, leading to serious health risks. You can perform a quick online search for backflow testing near me and choose a licensed plumber. 

What is the Importance of Backflow Testing?

Potable water flows through pressurized water taps from the source. Generally, it flows in one direction, but in some instances, it may backflow to the opposite one. Backflow makes the water unsafe. Below are some of the benefits of backflow testing:

Safety

The potential danger of backflow is water contamination in the clean supply source, which can lead to serious health problems for you, your loved ones, your community, and your business.

Performing an annual backflow test will keep the water supply clean, contributing to your community’s safety and health. In addition, maintaining your backflow prevention devices can prevent what can potentially be a life-threatening situation.

Easy to Book an Appointment

You can schedule an appointment by contacting a licensed plumber at your convenient time. Working with one plumber allows you to book an automatic annual service. This way, you don’t need to call in every time your device is due for testing, as they will have you on their calendar.

No Interference

A backflow test takes approximately 20 – 30 minutes, and the licensed plumber can do the tests without interfering with your daily schedule, meaning you don’t have to be at home to complete the test. However, if your backflow device is inside your home, you can schedule a favorable time for the test to be completed.

No Paperwork

Working with a professional plumber will ensure that they handle all necessary paperwork on your behalf, saving you time and reducing stress. After the test is completed, they will update the backflow prevention device’s information and provide you with a copy of the report. Then, they will file the report with your village and the state government to ensure that all accounts are up-to-date.

How to Choose the Right Backflow Testing Device

When choosing a backflow preventer device, here are a few factors to consider:

• Cost – the cost of a backflow preventer device widely varies depending on the type of device, assembly, and complexity. In terms of assembly, the reduced pressure principle (RP) is one of the more expensive and comprehensive options, while the pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) is the most economical.
• Maintenance and Installation Complexity – It’s crucial to bear in mind the complexity and maintenance of a backflow-preventing device. For example, RP requires more complex maintenance and trickier installation techniques, while an SVB or a PVB is simple to install and maintain.
• Range of Coverage – PVBs are more limited as they cannot prevent back pressure or function effectively in a highly stressful or hazardous situation. Depending on the functionality of the backflow preventer and the environment where a licensed plumber will install it, it will help you figure out the best backflow prevention device for the right level of protection.

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Final Word

According to Illinois state, where a yearly test is necessary, you will receive a letter from the city with a backflow test report about a month before the test is due. After receiving the letter, you should contact a licensed plumber for backflow testing. After the test is complete and you are certified, you must file the report back to the city.