Backflow Testing
Backflow Testing | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Kingsport
When your Kingsport facility relies on spotless water quality, you can’t leave backflow prevention to chance. HEP’s certified specialists test, repair, and replace backflow assemblies with the precision your business demands, safeguarding potable lines from cross-contamination and keeping you in full compliance with state and municipal codes. Our vans are stocked for on-the-spot fixes, so downtime stays minimal and productivity stays on schedule.
From hospitals and restaurants to manufacturing plants, we treat every job as mission-critical commercial plumbing. You’ll receive digital test reports for easy record-keeping, transparent pricing before we start, and priority scheduling that works around your peak hours. Partner with HEP and turn backflow testing into one less thing on your maintenance checklist.
FAQs
What is a backflow preventer and why is testing required for commercial buildings in Kingsport?
A backflow preventer is a mechanical valve assembly that stops contaminated water or chemicals from flowing backward into the public drinking-water system. Because most commercial facilities use chemicals, cleaning agents, irrigation systems, or fire-suppression lines that can create cross-connections, the City of Kingsport and the State of Tennessee require annual testing to verify that every backflow prevention assembly is operating correctly and protecting the municipal water supply.
How often does Kingsport mandate backflow testing for commercial properties?
Both the Kingsport Water Department and Tennessee state regulations require that every backflow prevention assembly at a commercial property be tested at least once every 12 months. Some high-hazard sites—such as medical facilities, industrial plants, or sites with chemical processing—may be required to test more frequently or whenever a device is repaired, relocated, or replaced.
What does your commercial backflow testing service include?
Our licensed tester will: (1) review your site to locate each backflow prevention assembly; (2) shut down water only to the specific line being tested to avoid whole-building interruptions; (3) connect calibrated, state-approved differential pressure gauges; (4) perform all test procedures specified by ASSE and USC-FCCCHR; (5) clean or rebuild minor internal components on site if needed; (6) tag each device with the test date and our certification number; and (7) electronically file the official test reports with the Kingsport Water Department before we leave your property.
Will the test disrupt my business operations or water service?
A standard test on a single backflow preventer typically takes 15–30 minutes. We isolate only the branch of piping that serves the device being tested, so most businesses experience little or no noticeable interruption. For facilities that cannot lose water pressure—such as restaurants, health-care clinics, or production lines—we can schedule off-peak or after-hours testing and bring temporary bypass equipment to keep you running.
What happens if my backflow preventer fails?
If the assembly does not pass the pressure-differential test, we will explain the cause (worn springs, fouled check valves, damaged seats, etc.) and provide a written repair estimate on the spot. Our technicians carry common rebuild kits for all major brands, so we can often repair and retest the same day. After a successful retest, we submit the passing report to the city. If a device is beyond repair, we will recommend a code-compliant replacement and coordinate permitting and installation.
Are you certified to submit official paperwork to the Kingsport Water Department and the State of Tennessee?
Yes. Our technicians hold current Tennessee Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester licenses, carry ASSE 5110 certifications, and are recognized by the Kingsport Water Department. We use the city’s approved electronic portal to file all test and maintenance reports, ensuring your facility stays in full regulatory compliance without added paperwork on your end.