Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is a mechanical device installed on a plumbing system to stop contaminated water from flowing backward into clean drinking water lines. It helps protect your property and the public water supply from potential contamination.

Question 1

What is a backflow preventer?

Accepted Answer

A backflow preventer is a mechanical device installed on your plumbing system to stop contaminated water from flowing backward into clean drinking water lines. It protects your home, property, and the public water supply from potential contamination.

Want to learn more? Visit our complete guide to Backflow in the Learning Centre.

Question 2

Why is backflow prevention important?

Accepted Answer

Backflow prevention helps protect drinking water from contamination caused by reverse flow from irrigation systems, fire protection systems, boilers, commercial equipment, or other cross-connections.

Question 3

How often should backflow preventers be tested?

Accepted Answer

Most backflow preventers are required to be tested annually to maintain compliance with municipal requirements and applicable provincial standards.

Question 4

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

123 Backflow provides backflow testing, repair, installation, re-testing, annual inspection reminders, and city report submission for residential, commercial, strata, industrial, irrigation, and fire protection systems.

Question 5

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 123 Backflow provides certified backflow services and carries $5 million in liability insurance. Testing, repairs, and installations are performed in accordance with applicable city requirements and provincial standards.

Question 6

Do you test backflow preventers for residential, commercial and strata properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 123 Backflow tests backflow preventers for residential, commercial, strata, industrial, irrigation, and fire protection systems throughout Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

Question 7

How long does a backflow test take?

Accepted Answer

Most backflow tests are completed in under 30 minutes, depending on the device type, condition, accessibility, and whether repairs are required.

Question 8

How quickly can you schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Appointments can usually be scheduled quickly, with same-day or next-day service available when scheduling allows.

Question 9

Do you submit reports?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Backflow test reports are submitted to the applicable city or reporting system after testing is completed.

Question 10

What happens if my backflow preventer fails the inspection?

Accepted Answer

If a backflow preventer fails inspection, 123 Backflow can diagnose the issue, complete repairs where possible, re-test the device, and submit the updated report after the device passes.

Question 11

Do you offer reminders for annual inspections?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clients can receive annual service reminders to help avoid missed compliance deadlines.

Received a Backflow Testing Notice?

Have questions about annual testing, city notices, repairs, or installations? Contact Joseph directly for fast, knowledgeable assistance.