Backflow Prevention
Backflow Prevention | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | New Tazewell
When the water in your building reverses direction, contaminants can infiltrate sinks, ice machines, and the drinking fountain your customers rely on. HEP’s licensed technicians specialize in backflow prevention for commercial plumbing systems across New Tazewell, installing and testing top-tier assemblies that keep your potable lines safe and code-compliant. From restaurants along U.S. 25E to medical offices near Claiborne Medical Center, we safeguard every fixture that matters to your business.
Because backflow devices must be inspected annually, our team offers quick scheduling, digital test reports, and 24/7 emergency repairs—so you never have to choose between uptime and water safety. Partner with HEP to meet state regulations, avoid costly fines, and give employees and guests the pure, uninterrupted water service they expect.
FAQs
What is backflow and why is prevention critical for my New Tazewell business?
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow in your plumbing system, causing non-potable water, chemicals, or contaminants to enter the public drinking-water supply. Commercial facilities often have boilers, irrigation systems, chemical mixing tanks, fire sprinklers, or other cross-connections that create higher contamination risks. Preventing backflow protects your employees, customers, and the wider New Tazewell community from potential health hazards and keeps your business in compliance with Tennessee Safe Drinking Water regulations.
Am I legally required to have a backflow prevention device on my commercial property in New Tazewell?
Yes. The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) and Claiborne County Utility District require most commercial properties—including restaurants, medical offices, factories, salons, and multi-family complexes—to install approved backflow prevention assemblies. The exact requirement depends on the degree of hazard your facility poses. Failure to comply can result in water-service termination and fines, so it’s essential to have the proper device installed and kept in good working order.
How often does my backflow preventer need to be tested, and who can perform the test?
TDEC mandates that all testable backflow prevention assemblies on commercial properties be inspected and certified at least once every 12 months. Testing must be performed by a state-certified backflow tester who uses calibrated equipment and submits the official test report to the local water authority. Our licensed plumbers hold current Tennessee tester certifications and can handle scheduling, testing, repairs, and document submission on your behalf.
What types of backflow prevention assemblies are commonly used in commercial settings, and which one do I need?
The three main devices are the Reduced-Pressure Zone (RPZ) assembly, Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA), and Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB). An RPZ provides the highest level of protection and is required for high-hazard applications such as medical facilities or chemical plants. A DCVA is acceptable for many medium-hazard uses like apartment complexes or light-commercial boilers. PVBs are typically used on irrigation systems. During our on-site survey, we’ll evaluate your plumbing layout and hazard level, then recommend the code-approved assembly that best fits your needs.
What are common signs that my existing backflow preventer is failing?
Warning signs include continuous water discharge from the relief valve, visible corrosion, leaking shut-off valves, unexplained drops in water pressure, discolored or foul-smelling water, and lapsed annual test tags. Even if no symptoms are present, a device can fail internally without obvious leaks, which is why scheduled testing is vital. If you notice any of these issues, shut off the affected line if possible and call our commercial plumbing team for an immediate inspection.
What is involved in the installation or replacement process, and how long will my water service be interrupted?
After a free site assessment, we secure the necessary permits, order the correct assembly, and coordinate with your building manager to minimize downtime. On installation day, we shut off the water, remove any old piping or device, install the new backflow preventer, and perform the initial certification test. For most standard 1"–4" commercial installations, the entire process takes 2–4 hours, with water shutoff limited to 30–90 minutes. Larger or more complex systems may require longer, but we always provide a detailed timeline so you can plan around business operations.