Backflow Prevention
Backflow Prevention | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | McMinnville
When a backflow device fails, contaminants can flow straight into your building’s potable water and put employees, customers, and your reputation at risk. HEP’s certified technicians specialize in the precise testing, repair, and replacement of backflow assemblies for every kind of commercial plumbing system in McMinnville, ensuring you stay compliant with state regulations and local codes while keeping your water supply pure.
From annual inspections and documentation to emergency valve repairs, we tailor our service schedules around your business hours so downtime is minimal and productivity never skips a beat. Trust HEP to maintain the invisible safeguard that protects your operation—reliable backflow prevention backed by unmatched commercial plumbing expertise and a satisfaction guarantee.
FAQs
What is backflow and why is backflow prevention important for commercial properties in McMinnville?
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow that can cause contaminants—from fertilizer to cleaning chemicals—to enter the potable water supply. Because commercial facilities often have complex plumbing systems, higher water pressures, and potential cross-connections, the risk is greater than in a typical home. A code-approved backflow prevention assembly (BPA) stops this reversal and protects not only your employees and customers but the entire McMinnville Water & Light distribution network.
Are commercial businesses in McMinnville required by law to have backflow prevention devices installed?
Yes. Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR 333-061) and the City of McMinnville’s Cross-Connection Control Program mandate that any commercial property with a potential cross-connection—irrigation systems, boilers, chemical dispensers, fire-sprinkler lines, etc.—install and maintain an appropriate BPA. Non-compliance can lead to fines, water service interruption, and liability for any resulting contamination event.
How often do backflow prevention assemblies need to be tested in McMinnville?
All BPAs on commercial properties must be tested at least once every 12 months by an Oregon Health Authority–certified tester. Additional tests are required when a device is newly installed, repaired, relocated, or if the water purveyor suspects a malfunction. Test results must be submitted to the City within 10 days to keep your account in good standing.
What types of backflow prevention devices are commonly used in commercial plumbing systems?
The three most common devices we install and service are: • Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RP): Offers the highest protection and is required when there is a risk of high-hazard contaminants. • Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA): Suitable for low-hazard applications such as standard fire-sprinkler lines without additives. • Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB): Typically used on irrigation systems where the downstream piping is above the device and can be properly winterized. Device selection depends on the degree of hazard, installation location, and local code requirements.
What is involved in a professional backflow test and how long does it take?
A certified tester will shut off downstream water, hook calibrated differential pressure gauges to the BPA test ports, and perform a series of valve manipulations to verify that check valves close tightly and the relief valve opens at the correct pressure. The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes per device, causes minimal water interruption, and ends with a detailed report that we file electronically with McMinnville Water & Light before leaving your site.
How can your company help if my backflow prevention device fails its annual test?
If your BPA fails, we provide same-day or scheduled repairs that may include cleaning debris, replacing rubber seats, springs, or entire check assemblies. After repairs, we retest the device, complete all paperwork, and submit the passing results to the City on your behalf. We also offer preventive maintenance plans, device winterization, and automatic annual test reminders so your commercial facility stays compliant year after year.