Backflow-prevention Testers
Backflow-prevention Testers | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Erwin
When the health of your water supply is on the line, Erwin businesses turn to HEP’s certified backflow-prevention testers. Our licensed technicians arrive with calibrated gauges, detailed compliance reports, and decades of experience protecting restaurants, factories, health-care facilities, and multi-tenant properties from costly cross-connection hazards. We handle annual inspections, repairs, and emergency replacements so your operation never skips a beat—and your potable water stays pure.
As a full-service commercial plumbing partner, HEP makes it easy to schedule, pass, and document every test required by local and state codes. One call secures prompt service, transparent pricing, and the confidence that your backflow assemblies meet the highest safety standards. Stay open, stay compliant, and let HEP keep your water flowing in the right direction.
FAQs
What is backflow and why is it a concern for commercial properties in Erwin?
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow that can allow contaminants from fire-sprinkler lines, chemical feed systems, boilers, or irrigation lines to enter the public drinking-water supply. Because many commercial buildings in Erwin connect a variety of special-use water systems to the city main, the risk of cross-connection is higher than it is in residences. The Town of Erwin and the State of Tennessee therefore require every commercial facility to install and maintain approved backflow-prevention assemblies to protect the municipal water system and the health of employees, customers, and neighbors.
Are annual backflow-prevention device tests required by law in Erwin?
Yes. Erwin’s Utilities Department enforces Tennessee Rule 0400-45-01-.17, which mandates that all backflow-prevention assemblies serving commercial and industrial users be tested at least once every 12 months by a Tennessee-licensed backflow tester. Test results must be submitted on the official Backflow Prevention Test & Maintenance Report form within 10 days of the test. Failure to comply can lead to fines and, in some cases, termination of water service until compliance is verified.
What types of backflow preventers do you test and service?
Our certified technicians are qualified to test, repair, and replace all common commercial assemblies, including Reduced-Pressure Principle Assemblies (RPZ), Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA), Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB), Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breakers (SVB), and detector check assemblies used on fire-protection systems. We also handle specialty devices found on carbonated beverage machines, medical equipment, and boiler feed lines. All work is performed to ASSE and USC-FCCCHR standards.
What does a commercial backflow test involve and how long does it take?
A standard test begins with shutting off downstream water, attaching calibrated test gauges to the assembly’s test cocks, and measuring differential pressure across each check valve and relief port. The technician verifies proper valve seal, spring tension, and relief-port operation while looking for leakage or pressure drop that would indicate failure. A routine test on a readily accessible assembly typically takes 20–30 minutes. If the device is in a confined space, behind ceiling tiles, or connected to a fire line that requires coordination with alarms, additional time may be needed.
What happens if my device fails the backflow test?
If any check valve or relief valve fails to hold the minimum required pressure, the device is considered non-compliant. Our technician will explain the specific failure, provide a written estimate, and, with your approval, perform on-site repairs such as cleaning seats, replacing rubbers and springs, or installing rebuild kits. A retest is performed immediately after repairs to confirm the assembly meets standards. All repair and retest data are documented on the official report and filed with Erwin Utilities. In most cases, same-day repair prevents service interruption.
How can I schedule testing and keep track of future compliance deadlines?
You can book an appointment by phone, email, or through our online portal. We offer flexible scheduling outside of peak business hours to minimize disruption. Once your initial test is complete, we enter your device details and renewal date into our reminder system. You’ll receive automated notices 30 and 7 days before the next due date, along with convenient options to confirm or reschedule. For multi-site clients, we provide consolidated reporting and a dashboard that shows the compliance status of every assembly across your Erwin facilities.