What to Expect During a Backflow Preventer Inspection

Protecting Your Water, Your Home, and Your Community

Backflow is one of those plumbing issues that can quietly become a major problem. It happens when water flows in the opposite direction than intended, bringing potentially contaminated water back into your clean water supply. This can be caused by sudden changes in water pressure, such as pipe bursts, hydrant use, or freezing temperatures. And yes—it's just as bad as it sounds.

To prevent this, many homes and businesses in Florida rely on backflow prevention devices, which act as a one-way gate to keep your drinking water safe. But just like any part of your plumbing system, these devices need regular check-ups. If you're wondering what a backflow preventer inspection involves, the team at Pam’s Plumbing is here to break it down.

Types of Backflow Prevention Devices

There are two main types of devices you might encounter:

1. Reduced Pressure Principle (RPP) Device: Best for high-risk commercial or industrial settings, this device includes two check valves and a relief valve. It offers an extra layer of protection and discharges water if contamination is detected.

2. Double Check Valve Assembly: Commonly used in residential properties and smaller commercial buildings, this device features two check valves but does not include a relief valve. It still offers solid protection for lower-risk systems.

Both types can develop issues over time—like stuck or leaky valves—which is why annual inspections are key to maintaining your property’s water safety.

What Happens During a Backflow Preventer Inspection?

When you schedule an inspection with Pam’s Plumbing, here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Walkthrough

• Our licensed plumber will locate your backflow preventer and examine the surrounding area.

• The downstream shut-off valve will be turned off to begin the inspection safely.

• We’ll check for visible signs of wear, rust, or leaks.

2. Pressure Testing

• A test kit is connected to the built-in test ports on your device.

• We measure pressure at different points to ensure water is flowing properly and staying where it should.

• This helps identify whether the valves are maintaining the correct pressure differential.

3. Functionality Checks

• The plumber will test the check valves to confirm they only allow water to flow in one direction.

• If your system includes a relief valve, we’ll test that as well to ensure it activates when it should.

4. Inspection Report and Certification

• After the inspection, we provide a detailed report explaining our findings.

• If everything looks good, you’ll receive a certification for your records (and your water provider).

• If we find an issue, we’ll walk you through the next steps—whether it’s a simple repair or a full replacement.
  

Why Is This So Important?

Backflow prevention isn’t just a box to check—it’s about protecting public health. A faulty backflow preventer can expose people to harmful bacteria, chemicals, and waste. Many municipalities in Florida require annual testing, especially for commercial properties and multi-unit buildings.

Pam’s Plumbing is licensed and qualified to perform these inspections and submit the necessary documentation to local authorities. We stay up to date on Florida’s requirements so you don’t have to.

What Does a Backflow Preventer Inspection Cost?

The price can vary depending on the type of device, accessibility, and size of your system. At Pam’s Plumbing, we offer transparent pricing and are happy to provide a quote before any work begins. In most cases, an annual inspection is a small investment for such a critical safety measure.

Need an Inspection? Let Pam’s Plumbing Handle It.

If it’s time for your annual backflow preventer inspection—or if you’re not even sure when your last one was—Pam’s Plumbing is here to help. Our licensed team will ensure your system is safe, up to code, and running smoothly.

Contact us today to schedule your inspection or ask about our other plumbing services. We’ve got our communities covered, one clean water supply at a time.