FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY DO I NEED TO GET MY BACKFLOW DEVICE INSPECTED AND CERTIFIED?
It is important to provide safety to our potable water source. Backflow devices are installed in homes and businesses to prevent cross connections between potable water and any source of contamination. Over time these devices that protect our water source can deteriorate and might need servicing and maintenance. Under the State of California Administrative Code, Title 17 and the City of San Francisco article 12A, any customer who has a backflow device on their property is required to have an annual inspection by a certified AWWA tester. Failure to comply could result in a disconnection of water service. Enforcement for noncompliance will be done by local water district's cross connection control program and environmental health department.
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HOW DOES THIS AFFECT ME?
Backflow affects anyone that has a potable water source. If a source of contamination or pollutant were to interact with your potable water, there may be a potential for sickness and or death.
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Potential Contamination Due to Cross-Connections and Backflow and the Associated Health Risks
HOW MUCH WOULD IT COST?
Annual backflow test are $110.00 per device. DCDA II are $180.00 per device. SFDPH/SFPUC Backflow tags will be included and all paperwork shall be submitted by tester. Locations with 4 or more devices and regular customers are eligible for a 10% discount.
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New Assemblies, prices will vary dependent on circumstances.
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All new installations and replacement assemblies shall be given a unit price in accordance to demands and needs of client. Permit and Inspection fees shall be included. All work done shall comply with CA IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code, CA-NV AWWA (California Nevada American Water Works Association), and USC (University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering) Standards.
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Testing fees are due whether device passes or fails.
HOW DO I KNOW WHO ARE AUTHORIZED TO TEST AND SERVICE MY ASSEMBLIES? WHAT ASSEMBLIES ARE APPROVED?
Testers are approved and certified by the AWWA (American Water Works Association). However, having just the certificate does not make them an approved tester in your water district. Each city and county has their own list of certified testers. In order to find the right person to get the job done, check with your local water district. In California and Nevada the CA-NV AWWA (California Nevada American Water Works Association) have a list of all approved backflow testers recognized by their association.
The CA-NV AWWA (California Nevada American Water Works Association), partner with the University of Southern California to create an approved assembly list. The list consist of all approved assemblies with the correct installed orientations, shut off valves, meters, bypass valves, etc.
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Certified Backflow Prevention Testers Approved by San Mateo County Environmental Health Services