Backflow Device Certification


Meeks Plumbing, Inc. is able to perform backflow certifications for our customers. We have accredited plumbing technicians who have taken the necessary courses and received their license to perform such certifications.

A backflow prevention device is used to protect water supplies from contamination or pollution. A typical backflow assembly has test cocks and shut-off valves and must be tested each year, if relocated or repaired, and when installed. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) holds local water suppliers responsible for maintaining a certain amount of purity in potable water systems. Many states and/or local municipalities require annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies. A check valve is a common form of backflow prevention.
In water supply systems, water is normally maintained at a significant pressure to enable water to flow from the tap, shower etc. When pressure fails or is reduced as may happen if a water main bursts, pipes freeze or there is unexpectedly high demand on the water system, the pressure in the pipe may be reduced and may allow contaminated water from the ground or other storage sources to be drawn into the system. To prevent such an occurrence, many regulatory regimes require there to be an air gap between the delivery point of water mains and local storage. Where submerged mains inflow is permitted a backflow prevention device is required. In this way a backflow prevention device protects the potable water system from contamination hazards which can be severe.