Backflow
Certified Backflow Testing
Six certified technicians on the crew. We test and file the paperwork with your city.
Backflow testing is the annual, state-certified pressure test of the backflow preventer on an irrigation system, required by most eastern Iowa municipalities to keep lawn water from contaminating the drinking supply.
How the job goes
How a backflow testing job goes
Every step below is how this service runs when we do it, no surprises on the invoice.
- 01
Annual due date
Most eastern Iowa cities require irrigation backflow devices to be tested once a year, and the notice usually comes from the city. Call us when yours arrives and we'll get you scheduled.
- 02
On-site test
One of our six certified test technicians hooks calibrated gauges to the device, runs the check-valve pressures, and records the readings.
- 03
Pass and file
If it passes we will file the report with your city, you don't have to chase the paperwork.
- 04
Repair if it fails
If a check valve or relief valve is bad, we rebuild it on the same visit when we have the parts. Re-test is included.
Ready for this specific job?
Start a backflow testing quote
Just need your address and the name of your water utility. We'll get you on the annual schedule and handle the city paperwork.
(319) 774-3750Common questions
Common questions about backflow testing
These are the questions we actually get about this service, not a generic FAQ pasted onto every page.
- Do I really have to test every year?
- Most municipalities in Linn and Johnson counties require it annually and will send a shutoff notice if the report is missed. Check with your water utility if you're unsure.
- Can I just do it myself?
- No, cities only accept reports from a state-certified backflow test technician using calibrated gauges. Certification has to be renewed every two years and the gauges have to be re-calibrated annually.
- How much does a test cost?
- It's a flat annual rate. Call for the current number, it hasn't moved much year over year.
- You didn't install my system, can you still test my backflow?
- Yes. Standalone backflow testing on any brand of device is one of the most common things we do.
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