What Is Backflow Testing and Why Is It Necessary?

Backflow testing is a legal mandate under the Plumbing Practice Act that helps keep our drinking water safe. Amendments to the Act in 2024 made it mandatory for only licensed plumbers to install, test, repair, and remove backflow prevention devices.

Testing involves inspecting plumbing systems to ensure contaminated water doesn’t flow backward into clean water supplies. In Colorado, where we face a mix of heavy rain, snowmelt, and agricultural runoff, the risk of water contamination is higher. This makes backflow testing especially important for protecting our homes and businesses.

Regular testing helps catch potential issues before they become serious, ensuring everyone can access clean, safe water. By staying on top of backflow testing, property owners protect their own water and contribute to the entire community’s well-being.

How Long Do Backflow Preventers Last?

Backflow preventers are devices that let water flow into your property but prevent it from flowing back into and contaminating the main water supply. Depending on the device type, they typically last between 5 and 10 years.

AE Plumbing Services’s Backflow Testing Services

We’re your source for all the backflow testing services you need to keep your property compliant with the Plumbing Practice Act.

Here’s how we can help:

• Residential backflow testing
• Commercial backflow testing
• Industrial backflow testing
• Backflow valve testing
• Backflow prevention device testing

• Irrigation system backflow testing
• Water heater backflow testing
• Water main backflow testing
• Fire sprinkler system backflow testing

How Often Should a Backflow Preventer Be Tested?

Backflow preventers in Colorado homes must be tested yearly to keep the water supply safe. State and local regulations require that homeowners have these devices inspected annually by a certified plumber to make sure they’re working correctly and preventing contamination.

It’s not just homes that need to follow these rules—businesses are also held to the same high standards. Commercial properties are required to have their backflow prevention devices inspected every year. For certain high-risk places like hospitals and restaurants, where water safety is even more critical, testing may need to be done more frequently to make sure there are no risks to potable water supplies.

Book Your Backflow Inspection Today

Local authorities enforce testing requirements to safeguard our region’s clean drinking water. AE Plumbing Services helps you keep your property compliant with the law and prevent contamination risks with a full suite of safe water management solutions. Our backflow prevention assembly testers and cross-connection control specialists are licensed plumbers who remain up-to-date with compliance requirements. All you have to do is schedule your annual backflow prevention inspection and let us take care of the rest.

Reach us at (720) 644-2727 for the answers to all your questions about backflow prevention, our services, pricing, and appointment availability.