Backflow Prevention
Backflow Prevention | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Athens
When a pressure drop or sudden surge threatens to reverse the flow of water, HEP’s certified backflow prevention experts step in to keep Athens businesses safe, compliant, and fully operational. From bustling cafés downtown to research labs near the university, we install, test, and repair backflow assemblies that block contaminants before they can infiltrate your potable supply. Our team understands the local codes inside and out, completes all required documentation for city inspectors, and schedules annual testing so you never miss a deadline.
Backed by decades of proven know-how in commercial plumbing, HEP arrives with stocked trucks, advanced diagnostic tools, and 24/7 emergency support—minimizing downtime and protecting your bottom line. Let us safeguard your water, your customers, and your reputation with precision-built devices and a service experience that’s as dependable as the systems we install.
FAQs
What is backflow and why is it a concern for my Athens commercial property?
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow in your plumbing system, which can allow contaminated water or chemicals to enter the public drinking supply. In commercial settings—restaurants, manufacturing plants, medical clinics, apartment complexes—the risk is higher because equipment such as boilers, irrigation systems, chemical dispensers, and fire-sprinkler lines can create pressure changes that draw contaminants back toward the city mains. Preventing backflow protects your customers, employees, and the wider Athens community from possible health hazards and costly shutdowns.
Are backflow prevention devices required by law in Athens–Clarke County and the State of Georgia?
Yes. Georgia’s Rules for Safe Drinking Water (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 391-3-5) require any commercial service with a potential cross-connection hazard to install an approved backflow prevention assembly. Athens–Clarke County Public Utilities enforces the rule locally and maintains a database of assemblies and test records. Failure to install, test, or maintain a device can lead to fines, termination of water service, or suspension of occupancy permits.
How often must my backflow preventer be tested, and who is authorized to perform the test?
Athens–Clarke County requires annual testing of all commercial backflow prevention assemblies. Certain high-hazard devices—such as those protecting chemical lines—may require semi-annual testing. Tests must be performed by a Georgia-certified backflow tester who carries the proper licensing, test kit calibration records, and insurance. After the test, the technician submits a signed report to Athens–Clarke County within 10 business days; copies should also be kept on site for health and building inspections.
What types of commercial facilities typically need backflow prevention in Athens?
Any facility with the potential for cross-connection must install a device. Common examples include: • Food-service establishments and breweries (carbonated beverage machines, dishwashers) • Medical offices, dental clinics, and laboratories (vacuum pumps, sterilizers) • Manufacturing and processing plants (chemical injection, cooling towers) • Multifamily housing and mixed-use developments (irrigation, swimming pools) • Car washes and auto-service centers (soap/chemical applicators) • Buildings with fire-sprinkler or standpipe systems If you are unsure, our licensed plumbers can survey your site and identify any hazards that trigger the requirement.
What happens during a backflow prevention device installation or replacement?
1. Site assessment: We locate existing service lines, identify the proper device type (RPZ, DCVA, PVB, etc.), and determine clearances for testing and drainage. 2. Permitting: We obtain Athens–Clarke County permits and coordinate any planned water shutdowns to minimize business disruption. 3. Installation: Our technicians shut off the water, cut into the service line, and install the new assembly with unions and test ports. For RPZs, we ensure adequate floor drains or spill basins. 4. Certification test: A certified tester performs the initial performance test on site. 5. Documentation: We file the test report with the county and provide you with maintenance instructions and a schedule for annual testing.
What are the signs my existing backflow preventer may be failing, and how quickly should I act?
Warning signs include visible leaks or continuous discharge from the relief valve, unusual pressure drops, difficulty maintaining water pressure in irrigation or fire-sprinkler systems, rust or debris around test ports, and failed annual test reports. A malfunctioning device can compromise water quality immediately, so you should schedule a repair or replacement as soon as you notice any issue. Our 24/7 commercial plumbing team can perform emergency repairs in Athens to keep you in compliance and protect the water supply.