Testing for Backflow Devices

Getz Fire Equipment backflow testing technicians are some of the best-trained and most-educated in the testing field. We provide our technicians with training and continuing education units beyond those required by the state. We always feel the best way to serve you is to provide the best-trained backflow prevention testing professionals in the field for Iowa, Illinois, or Missouri. Our Contractor Plumbing license number is 055-043894.

Backflow Prevention Device

What is backflow?
Backflow is the unintentional reverse flow of water from the normal direction in a water system. This reverse flow may result in the pollution or contamination of the water system by other substances, through a cross-connection. A backflow incident can happen anywhere “bad water” has the potential to mix with “good water.”

What is a Backflow Prevention Device?

A backflow prevention device is a mechanical device designed to prevent the cross-connection of substances that can pollute or contaminate the water supply during a backflow condition.

Why does the backflow prevention device have to be tested yearly?
A backflow preventer is a mechanical device, and like any mechanism, it has the potential to fail. Failure to regularly test backflow prevention devices could allow a backflow event to harm to the water supply, or the occupants that use it. Annual testing simulates how the device will act in a backflow situation, and verify that it is operating properly.

Backflow Device

What does Backflow Prevention Testing involve?
Every backflow device has test ports built into it to allow for testing. A backflow prevention testing technician will connect a test kit to the device, and verify that it is operating properly. Water to the device must be temporarily shut off to perform the test.
Our complete system of backflow testing was designed to protect you, the owner, and your facility.

Cross-Connection Survey & Investigations
In order to provide a safe, clean drinking water system to employees, visitors and neighbors, and to protect the ground water supply from contamination, an on-going Cross-Connection Control Program (CCCP) is not only REQUIRED, it is essential. Plumbing cross-connections, which are defined as actual or potential connections between a potable (drinkable) and non-potable (non-drinkable) water supply, are currently regulated by OSHA, Environmental Agencies and Public Health Agencies.