Understanding Backflow
Protecting Your Family and Your Community
At Colorado Backflow Testing, our mission is to ensure that the water coming out of your taps is as clean and safe as the day it left the treatment plant. To understand why we test your systems every year, it’s important to understand what backflow is and how a prevention assembly works.
What is Backflow?
In a perfect world, water flows in one direction: from the city’s main water line into your home or business. However, changes in water pressure can cause the flow to reverse. This is called backflow.
There are two main causes of backflow:
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Back-Siphonage: This happens when there is a sudden drop in water pressure in the city main (often caused by a nearby fire hydrant being used or a water main break). This creates a vacuum effect that "sucks" water backward from your property into the public supply.
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Back-Pressure: This occurs when the pressure inside your building’s plumbing system becomes higher than the city’s supply pressure, pushing water backward.
Perfect World Scenario
Backflow Incident
Why is it dangerous?
The water inside your irrigation system, fire sprinkler system, or boiler is "non-potable," meaning it isn't safe to drink. Without a working backflow preventer, this water—which can contain fertilizers, pesticides, bacteria, or stagnant debris—can be pulled back into your kitchen sink, your shower, or even the neighborhood’s clean water supply.
Why is Annual Testing Necessary?
RPZ Assembly
The highest level of protection available, designed for high-hazard situations where toxic substances could enter the water supply.
Because backflow preventers are mechanical devices with springs, rubber seals, and moving parts, they are subject to wear and tear. Over time, seals can degrade or minerals can build up, preventing the "gate" from closing tightly.
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It’s the Law: Most Colorado water providers require annual testing to ensure these devices are functioning correctly.
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Health Safety: A failing device provides a false sense of security. Regular testing is the only way to confirm you are protected.
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Liability: For business owners, ensuring your backflow assembly is certified protects you from the massive liability of contaminating the local water supply.
Double Check Valve
Reliable protection for low-hazard applications where backflow does not pose a health risk but could affect water quality.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker
Effective back-siphonage protection specifically designed for landscape irrigation and outdoor water systems.
Expertise You Can Trust: Understanding Backflow
At Colorado Backflow Testing, we specialize in the inspection, certification, and repair of all types of backflow assemblies. Our certified technicians ensure your system meets all local codes so you can have peace of mind knowing your water is safe.
Is your annual test due?
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