Backflow Certification
Backflow Certification | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Louisville
From bustling distilleries along Whiskey Row to high-rise office towers downtown, Louisville businesses rely on safe, code-compliant water systems. HEP’s certified technicians specialize in backflow prevention and testing, quickly identifying hazards that could let contaminants reverse-flow into your potable supply. We handle all paperwork, coordinate inspections with the city, and provide detailed digital reports—so you stay focused on running your operation, not chasing permits.
Our deep roots in the Louisville market mean we know local regulations inside and out, and our fleet is equipped to service everything from restaurants and healthcare facilities to industrial campuses. Whether you need annual certification, emergency repairs, or turnkey installations, our commercial plumbing experts arrive on time, work clean, and leave your system safer than they found it—all backed by HEP’s satisfaction guarantee.
FAQs
What is backflow and why does my Louisville commercial property need a certified prevention device?
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow in your plumbing system, which can allow contaminants (chemicals, bacteria, fertilizers, etc.) to enter the public drinking-water supply. Louisville Water and Kentucky Plumbing Code require every commercial facility with potential cross-connections—such as irrigation systems, boilers, fire suppression lines, labs, or food-service equipment—to install and annually certify a backflow prevention device to protect public health.
How often does Kentucky law require backflow devices to be tested and certified?
In Kentucky, the backflow assembly on a commercial property must be tested and recertified every 12 months by a licensed plumber holding a backflow tester certification. Louisville Water mails annual reminder notices, but property owners are responsible for scheduling the inspection before the due date to stay compliant and avoid penalties or service interruption.
What happens if my backflow certification expires or I skip the annual test?
If the certification lapses, Louisville Water can issue a notice of violation, assess fines, and ultimately shut off water service until a passing test report is received. In addition to legal penalties, an untested device can fail without warning, creating a direct pathway for contaminants to enter both your building’s plumbing and the municipal water system.
What does a commercial backflow test involve?
A certified tester will: 1) locate and visually inspect the assembly for leaks or damage; 2) connect calibrated differential-pressure gauges; 3) perform a series of check-valve and relief-valve readings; 4) record results on the official test form; and 5) submit the report electronically to Louisville Water. If the device fails, we provide on-the-spot repairs or schedule a rapid replacement so the unit can be retested and certified the same day whenever possible.
Can my facility stay open during backflow testing or repairs?
Yes. Most double-check or reduced-pressure assemblies can be isolated so the rest of your plumbing system continues operating. For devices on a fire protection line, we coordinate with your local fire marshal and perform testing during low-occupancy hours to minimize business disruption. Average test time is 20–45 minutes, and repairs are usually completed within two hours.
How much does commercial backflow certification cost in Louisville?
Pricing depends on device size and location, but typical fees range from $95–$175 for annual testing of ¾″–2″ assemblies and $200–$450 for 2½″–10″ or fire-line units. If repairs are needed, most common parts (rubber kits, springs, relief valves) add $30–$150. We offer multi-device and multi-property discounts, plus automatic scheduling and reminder services to ensure you never miss a compliance deadline.