We are approved for backflow testing in Cleveland, Akron, Medina, Avon Lake, Stow, Columbus, Delaware, Painesville, Cuyahoga Falls.  Call us if you don't see your area listed. We are a State of Ohio Department of Commerce Certified Backflow Tester.  Call today to schedule your backflow test.



What is Backflow?
Backflow occurs when the normal direction of the flow of water in a distribution system is reversed and a condition is created where contaminants may enter the water system.

What causes Backflow?
There are many reasons why backflow occurs. Municipal and private water systems are very dynamic and in a constant state of fluctuation. The most common situation happens when there is a water main break and the area of the service pipe must be isolated and repaired. When the valves around the repair site are closed, the flow of water is stopped to all the points of use, such as homes and businesses, and begins to flow backwards towards the repair. Therefore, any contaminating substances that are connected to the water system will begin to be siphoned back into the drinking water supply.

How can we prevent Backflow from occurring?
The most effective method of preventing backflow is through the use of an ’Air Gap’. An air gap is an actual physical separation between the outlet of the drinking water supply and any source of contamination. An example would be the space between the outlet of a kitchen faucet and the rim of the sink below. The sink would actually overflow before ever coming into contact with the faucet. If an air gap can’t be practically achieved, which is often the case, a mechanical device may be installed to prevent backflow. There are many types of backflow preventers on the market and all are rated to serve the different degrees of hazard.

What does a typical cross connection look like?
One example is the common garden hose attached to a wall hydrant or spigot with the other end of the hose lying in a pool, puddle or other source of non-potable water. Another might be the potable water make-up line that feeds a hot water heating boiler. Theses systems contain rusty, oil saturated heating water, which would pose a threat to health if consumed.

There are a variety of minerals and impurities in our drinking water which may pose no health risk, but which can corrode and scale the valves and other fittings in a water distribution system. Backflow devices are basically elaborate check valves, which allow flow in one direction only. They are subject to normal wear and tear and therefore must be tested regularly to ensure safe and proper operation. A device that is installed but not functioning creates a false sense of security for the water customer.


Above is an example of interior parts that have been affected by minerals and impurities in the water

Below is a example of the same parts but in new condition