Backflow Testing & Prevention in Cerritos, CA
Annual backflow preventer testing and certification for residential and commercial properties in Cerritos. We test, complete the required report, and file with the water authority on your behalf.
Backflow testing requirements in Cerritos
The City of Cerritos Water Department requires annual testing of all backflow prevention assemblies connected to the potable water system. Annual testing verifies that the device is functioning correctly and that the check valves, seals, and relief valves inside the assembly are operating within their rated pressure differentials. After testing, a written report is submitted to the water authority documenting the test results. Properties that fail to have their assemblies tested as required may receive notices from the City and risk service interruption.
We are certified backflow prevention assembly testers. We perform the test, complete the required documentation, and file the report with the City of Cerritos Water Department or the applicable water authority on your behalf. You receive a copy of the completed report for your records.
Types of backflow preventers and how testing works
Different backflow preventer types are used at different hazard levels. The most common types in the Cerritos area are:
Reduced Pressure Zone (RP) assemblies provide the highest level of protection and are required at commercial properties and high-hazard cross-connections. They have two independently operating check valves and a relief valve that opens to atmosphere if pressure differentials fall outside specifications. RP assemblies must be tested annually with a differential pressure gauge kit that measures each check valve independently.
Double Check (DC) assemblies are used at lower hazard connections, including many residential irrigation systems. They have two spring-loaded check valves in series. Testing verifies that each check closes and holds at the required pressure differential.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB) are point-of-use devices installed at individual hose connections and irrigation supply points. California plumbing code requires them at all hose bibbs and irrigation connections. Annual testing applies to assemblies on the water service connection; individual hose bib PVBs are typically inspected visually rather than pressure-tested annually.
Who needs annual backflow testing in Cerritos?
Properties with recognized cross-connection hazard points are required to have backflow prevention assemblies tested annually. This typically includes commercial and industrial properties with any process water or fire suppression connection, properties with landscape irrigation systems connected to the potable supply, properties with pool fill connections directly connected to the potable supply (rather than through an air gap), and some properties identified by the City as high-hazard based on use type.
Residential properties with irrigation systems that connect directly to the city water supply without an air gap typically have a double check or RP assembly at the meter or irrigation connection that requires annual testing. The City of Cerritos Water Department notifies property owners when their assemblies are coming due. If you have received a notice or are unsure whether your property has an assembly requiring testing, call us and we will assess.
What the testing process involves
The test takes 30 to 60 minutes for a single assembly. We connect the differential pressure gauge test kit to the assembly test cocks, open and close valves per the test procedure, record the pressure readings for each check valve and the relief valve, and document the pass or fail result on the required report form. If the assembly passes, we file the completed report. If it fails, we explain the failure mode and present repair or replacement options before proceeding.
Backflow testing and certification pricing in Cerritos
Annual testing for a single assembly at a Cerritos property typically runs $75 to $200 depending on assembly type and location. Properties with multiple assemblies at the same address receive a reduced rate per additional assembly. Repair or replacement of a failed assembly is priced based on the specific failure and assembly type. All pricing is confirmed before any repair work starts.
Frequently asked questions about backflow testing in Cerritos
What is a backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is a device that allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing contaminated water from flowing backward into the potable supply. Backflow can occur when system pressure drops or creates a siphon effect. Backflow preventers are installed at irrigation systems, fire suppression connections, commercial boilers, pool fill lines, and other cross-connection hazard points.
How often does a backflow preventer need to be tested in Cerritos?
The City of Cerritos Water Department requires annual testing for all backflow prevention assemblies. Annual testing verifies that the device seals correctly and opens at the correct differential pressure. We perform the test, complete the required report, and file it with the water authority on your behalf.
Who is required to have backflow testing in Cerritos?
Commercial and industrial properties with process water or fire suppression connections, properties with landscape irrigation connected to the potable supply, pool fill connections, and some residential properties identified by the City as high-hazard. The City of Cerritos Water Department notifies property owners when their assemblies are due for testing.
How much does backflow testing cost in Cerritos?
Annual testing for a single assembly typically runs $75 to $200 depending on assembly type and location. Multiple assemblies at the same address receive a reduced rate per unit. Repair or replacement of a failed assembly is priced based on the failure mode. All pricing is confirmed before any repair work starts.
What happens if my backflow preventer fails the test?
We explain the failure mode and present repair or replacement options. We can repair or replace the assembly on the same visit as the test in most cases, then perform a re-test to confirm the repair and file an updated report with the water authority. Properties with failed assemblies should not leave them in place unrepaired because the failure mode may allow contaminated water to enter the supply under certain pressure conditions.
Backflow test due in Cerritos?
We test, complete the required report, and file with the City of Cerritos Water Department. Residential and commercial. Repairs on the same visit when needed.
✆ Call (855) 575-2890