Backflow Testing & Prevention in

Greeley and Northern Colorado

Top Notch Plumbing, LLC now offers certified backflow testing to

Greeley, Loveland, Fort Collins, Eaton, Windsor, and all of Northern Colorado

Call 970-404-7586 for a free quote. What is Backflow and Why Do We Need to Test for it? Water testing is essential to ensuring that your water supply is functioning properly and providing clean, potable water. After all, safe drinking water is a must. Plumbing, however, can be complicated, and things don’t always flow according to plan. Backflow testing is just one of the many benefits of having a master plumber inspect your home or commercial plumbing. Backflow is a dangerous plumbing condition where water flows in the opposite direction within a plumbing system than its intended path, causing the water to be contaminated by chemicals and other hazardous compounds. Water should only be flowing in one direction in a pipe at a time. Depending on local regulations, backflow testing is required after the installation of a backflow preventer in new construction or remodeling and at least once per year at both commercial and residential properties. Cross connectors are devices that control the flow of potable and non-potable water throughout a plumbing system. Cross connection control is essential to the functionality of many water supply systems in residential and commercial plumbing systems. It’s recommended that cross connectors are tested and replaced no less than every five years. Our comprehensive backflow testing can determine whether or not your cross connectors are in good shape. Our team at Top Notch Plumbing LLC has years of experience servicing the greater Greeley area with expert plumbing services, including backflow inspections, cross connection control, and general plumbing maintenance.

Common Causes of Backflow

Plumbing systems function using a series of channels, valves, and pressures to orchestrate the flow of water. When pressure changes, so does the flow of the water. Problems arise when unexpected pressure changes occur, disrupting the intentional flow of the water supply. Backflow may also be caused by a faulty valve or cross connector. Backflow is most common in areas like the kitchen or bathrooms of homes and other buildings, as these areas typically house the greatest number of water systems. Even appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators are fitted with cross-connectors, meaning that they, too, are susceptible to water contamination and, therefore, benefit from regular backflow testing. The most common causes of backflow include: • Damaged pipes and water lines, usually caused by freezing • Plumbing overhauling • Environmental and/or systemic pressure changes • Emergency water usage, such as from a nearby fire hydrant

How does backflow testing work?

For backflow testing to be performed, water lines must be shut off. So, before the process begins, it’s critical that occupants and owners are notified in advance. If the shutoff affects any fire lines within the plumbing system, fire departments must also be made aware in the case of an emergency. Once the necessary water lines are shut off, testing is performed using a device that allows plumbing teams to monitor the pressure at different points throughout a plumbing system. The system is also evaluated for water leaks, and valve and air port malfunction.

How often should backflow testing be performed?

Failure to complete backflow inspections may result in your local municipality disconnecting your water service until the inspection is performed and your water is cleared. However, a failed inspection can lead to a slew of other issues. It’s always better to identify a problem before it gets out of hand, so we recommend familiarizing yourself with local regulations for water testing and plumbing inspections. Faulty water systems can cause serious consequences that may endanger your property and tenants. Make sure your stream is crystal clear by contacting our team at Top Notch Plumbing. We provide expert plumbing services, including regular backflow testing and inspections, to our Greeley community and the surrounding areas, including Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, and Eaton. Schedule an appointment today!