Quarterly Backflow Testing
Quarterly Backflow Testing | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Jefferson City
Jefferson City businesses can’t afford interruptions or code violations, which is why HEP schedules hassle-free, quarterly backflow testing that keeps water lines safe and operations on track. Our certified testers arrive on time, document every valve inspection, and file the reports your municipality requires—all while you stay focused on serving customers.
From bustling restaurants to sprawling industrial sites, we bring the same precision and proactive mindset that has made us a trusted name in commercial plumbing across Mid-Missouri. When you partner with HEP, you get transparent pricing, 24/7 support, and a team that treats your property like our own—because clean, compliant water is the backbone of every thriving business.
FAQs
Why is quarterly backflow testing required for commercial properties in Jefferson City?
Jefferson City follows Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) regulations and local ordinances that classify many commercial buildings as high-hazard water users. Restaurants, health-care facilities, manufacturing plants, and multi-story offices all pose a greater risk of cross-connection contamination. Quarterly testing verifies that the backflow prevention assembly is working correctly, protecting the city’s potable water, ensuring public health, and keeping your business in compliance with code. Failure to test on the prescribed schedule can result in fines, water-service interruptions, or the revocation of your occupancy permit.
What types of backflow prevention assemblies must be tested quarterly?
In Jefferson City, any Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RP), Reduced Pressure Principle Detector Assembly (RPDA), Double Check Valve Assembly (DC), Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA), and Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) serving a high-hazard commercial application must be tested every three months. Examples include devices on fire-sprinkler lines with chemical additives, irrigation systems that use fertilizers, boiler feed lines, medical or dental equipment, and process-water systems in factories. Lower-hazard devices may only require annual testing, but most commercial settings fall under the quarterly mandate.
What does the quarterly backflow test involve and how long does it take?
A certified tester will: 1. Shut off downstream water to isolate the assembly. 2. Connect calibrated test gauges to the test cocks. 3. Record the pressure differential and check-valve closure times. 4. Inspect relief valves for proper opening pressure. 5. Clean or rebuild internal parts if minor defects are found. 6. Restore water service, verify zero leakage, and tag the device. The entire process usually takes 20–40 minutes per device. Your water will be off only during the brief isolation phase, minimizing disruption to daily operations.
What happens if my commercial property fails the backflow test?
The tester will document the failure on the official test report and notify both you and Jefferson City Public Works. Missouri regulations give property owners 10 days to repair or replace a failed device and pass a retest. Our licensed plumbers can usually rebuild or replace the assembly on the spot, but if specialized parts are needed, we will schedule a follow-up visit within the compliance window. Until the device passes, the city may issue a conditional notice; persistent non-compliance can lead to water shut-off or civil penalties.
How do I schedule quarterly backflow testing and what should I prepare?
Call or submit an online request at least two weeks before your due date. Provide the device location, model, size, and last test date so we can allocate the right equipment and technician. On test day: • Ensure we have access to mechanical rooms, meter pits, or fenced areas. • Notify building occupants of a brief water shut-off. • Have any maintenance records or prior test reports available. We will file the completed Form MO 780-1978 directly with the city and email you a copy for your records.
Can I combine backflow testing with other plumbing maintenance services?
Absolutely. Many Jefferson City businesses bundle quarterly backflow testing with annual water-heater inspections, grease-trap cleaning, RPZ winterization, or fire-sprinkler flow tests to reduce downtime and save on service fees. Let us know your broader plumbing needs when scheduling, and we’ll create a coordinated maintenance plan that meets regulatory deadlines while minimizing disruption to your operations.