Frequently Asked Questions
Flowcheck Backflow Check FAQ
Got questions? We have answers. If you don’t see your question, send us an email here.
Do you offer an Automatic Yearly Backflow Testing program?
Yes! For our Auto Testing Program, we offer $5 off our regular price of $39.99. Simply go here to sign up. Credit or debit card securely stored on file is required to take advantage of this convenient service.
What is a backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is an approved, testable assembly which uses valves to prevent potentially contaminated water from reversing direction and flowing into the public water system.
How do I know if I have a backflow preventer?
- If you received an annual notice from your water provider, you more than likely have a backflow preventer at your residence or business. The most common systems that use backflow preventers are:
- Irrigation Systems
- Fire Sprinkler Systems (Both Residential and Commercial)
- Domestic Water Lines (depends on Commercial use)
- Swimming Pools
- Soda Machines
- Boilers
- Hot Tubs
Is annual testing required?
Yes, per Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 333-061-070 and the Rules and Regulations of your local water provider, all approved backflow prevention assemblies must be maintained and tested at least annually.
Isn't required backflow testing just a scam?
NO. It’s all based off physics. If a water main breaks, what happens to all the water downstream of the break? It gets siphoned back toward the breakage. Without a backflow preventer between your sprinkler system (and all the various fertilizers we use on our lawns) and the water main, all that water from your yard will simply get pulled back into the community water system and your house or place of business.
Why does the backflow device have to be tested every year?
Think about your backflow device like a car. It’s contains springs and rubber gaskets that, over time, eventually wear out. The job of the tester is to ensure your device is working properly and nothing has worn out.
Is Flowcheck licensed to repair backflow assemblies?
YES! We are licensed with the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board (License# 9331) for Irrigation plus Backflow. That means if your assembly failed it’s annual test, we can fix it, or in some cases, completely replace it. We’ll even retest the device for FREE if we conduct the repairs.