Blog
Tips, guides, and news about backflow testing, cross-connection control, and water safety.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker vs Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker: What's the Difference?
PVBs and AVBs both prevent backsiphonage, but they differ in design, testability, installation, and cost. Learn which vacuum breaker is right for your property.
April 3, 2026
How a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) Works: Complete Guide
Learn how a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) protects your drinking water from backsiphonage, when to use one vs an RPZ or DCVA, installation requirements, and what to expect during annual testing.
April 1, 2026
How a Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) Works: Complete Guide
A Double Check Valve Assembly uses two spring-loaded check valves in series to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into your drinking water supply. Here's exactly how it works and when your property needs one.
March 30, 2026
How a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assembly Works
Learn how a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) backflow prevention assembly protects your drinking water, what its key components are, when it's required, and why annual testing matters.
March 28, 2026
Types of Backflow Prevention Devices Explained: RPZ vs DCVA vs PVB
Understanding the differences between RPZ, DCVA, and PVB backflow prevention devices is essential for choosing the right protection for your property. Learn how each device works, where it’s used, and which one your local code likely requires.
March 26, 2026
What Happens After You Get a Backflow Test Notice from Your Water Utility
Received a backflow test notice in the mail? Here's exactly what it means, what you need to do, and how to stay compliant — step by step.
March 24, 2026
7 Common Backflow Prevention Mistakes Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Most homeowners don't think about backflow prevention until they get a compliance notice — and by then, costly mistakes may already be baked in. Here are the 7 most common backflow prevention errors and exactly how to fix them before they become expensive problems.
March 24, 2026
What Is the Difference Between a Backflow Test and a Backflow Inspection
Backflow tests and backflow inspections sound similar but serve different purposes. Here's what each one involves, who performs them, and which one your utility is actually asking for.
March 20, 2026
State-by-State Backflow Testing Requirements: A General Overview
Backflow testing requirements vary by state. Here's a general overview of how different states approach cross-connection control, testing frequency, and tester certification.
March 18, 2026
What the EPA Says About Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control
The EPA doesn't directly regulate backflow testing — but its authority under the Safe Drinking Water Act is the foundation for every cross-connection control program in the country. Here's how it all connects.
March 16, 2026
How Backflow Contamination Events Actually Happen: Real Examples
Backflow contamination isn't hypothetical — it happens regularly across the U.S. Here are real-world examples of how backflow events occur and what they teach us about prevention.
March 14, 2026
Annual Backflow Testing Requirements: Complete Compliance Guide 2026
Learn why most jurisdictions require annual backflow testing, understand regulations, and discover how to maintain water safety compliance efficiently.
March 13, 2026
Common Reasons Backflow Tests Fail and What to Do Next
Your backflow test came back with a failure? Don't panic. Here are the most common reasons devices fail, what repairs typically cost, and how to get back to passing quickly.
March 12, 2026
What Is a Backflow Prevention Assembly and Why Is It Required
A backflow prevention assembly is a mechanical device that stops contaminated water from flowing backward into the public drinking water supply. Here's how it works, why it's required, and what it means for your property.
March 10, 2026
How Often Does a Backflow Preventer Need to Be Tested
Wondering how often your backflow device needs testing? The short answer is annually — but here's why, what drives the requirement, and how some situations call for more frequent testing.
March 8, 2026
Do Residential Properties Need Backflow Testing?
Not sure if your home needs backflow testing? The answer depends on your local utility, your plumbing setup, and whether you have a backflow prevention device installed. Here's how to find out.
March 6, 2026
Backflow Testing Deadlines: What Happens When You Miss Yours
Missed your backflow testing deadline? Here's exactly what to expect — from the first follow-up letter to potential water shutoff — and how to get back into compliance fast.
March 4, 2026
What Is a Cross-Connection Control Program and Why Your City Has One
Every public water system in the U.S. is required to have a cross-connection control program. Here's what that means for you as a property owner and why your city sends those backflow test notices.
March 2, 2026
How to Read a Backflow Test Report and What the Numbers Mean
Your backflow test report is full of pressure readings and abbreviations. Here's a simple guide to understanding what the numbers mean, what counts as passing, and when to worry.
February 28, 2026
Who Is Responsible for Backflow Testing: Property Owner or Tenant
When a backflow test notice arrives at a rental property, who has to deal with it — the landlord or the tenant? Here's how responsibility typically works and what both parties need to know.
February 26, 2026
Repair vs. Replace: What to Do When Your Backflow Preventer Fails Its Annual Test
A failed backflow test isn’t the disaster it sounds like — but it does require timely action. This guide explains what failure really means, when a simple repair makes sense, and when full replacement is the smarter long-term investment for staying compliant and protecting your water supply.
February 25, 2026
Understanding Your Annual Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report
Your backflow tester hands you a test report full of numbers and checkboxes. Here's what every field means, what passing looks like, and why this document matters for your compliance records.
February 24, 2026
Backflow Testing Cost Guide 2026: Residential & Commercial Prices
Backflow testing costs vary by device type, property size, and location—but most homeowners can expect to pay $65–$175, while commercial testing often ranges from $100–$500+ per assembly. This 2026 guide breaks down average pricing, what’s included, key cost drivers, and when testing turns into repair or replacement so you can compare quotes and stay compliant.
February 22, 2026
What Happens If You Ignore a Backflow Test Notice
Thinking about tossing that backflow test notice? Here's what actually happens — from warning letters to fines to water shutoff — and why it's not worth the risk.
February 22, 2026
Certified Backflow Tester vs Plumber: Who Should You Hire for Compliance?
Not sure whether you need a certified backflow tester or a licensed plumber? Learn the key differences, compliance requirements, and who to hire for annual backflow testing and repairs.
February 20, 2026
How Long Do You Have to Complete a Backflow Test After Receiving a Notice
Got a backflow test notice? Most utilities give 30 to 90 days to comply. Here's what typical deadlines look like, how to request extensions, and what happens if time runs out.
February 20, 2026