Backflow Prevention & Testing
Installation, annual testing, certification, and repair of backflow prevention assemblies — protecting your potable water supply and keeping you compliant with your local water authority.
Protecting the Water You Drink
Backflow occurs when water flows in the wrong direction — backward from your fire sprinkler system, irrigation line, or other non-potable source into the public drinking water supply. This can happen during a water main break, heavy firefighting demand, or any sudden pressure drop. Without a backflow preventer in place, stagnant or chemically treated water can contaminate the clean supply your community depends on.
If your building has a fire sprinkler system connected to the municipal water supply, California law and your local water district require a backflow prevention assembly — and it must be tested annually by a certified tester. Hydrotek Fire Systems handles the full lifecycle: installation, annual testing, certification, repair, and replacement.
Our Backflow Services
Complete support from installation through annual certification & repair
Annual Testing & Certification
Your backflow preventer must be tested every year by a certified tester — no exceptions. We perform the full test, verify check valve and relief valve function, and submit the certified test report directly to your local water authority on your behalf. We also track your schedule and send reminders so you never miss a deadline.
Installation
We install double check valve assemblies (DCVAs) and reduced pressure zone assemblies (RPZs) on fire service lines, domestic water connections, and irrigation systems. Every installation is sized to your water district's requirements and positioned for easy access during future testing and maintenance.
Repair & Rebuild
When an assembly fails its annual test — stuck check valves, leaking relief valves, worn seats, or damaged internals — we repair it on-site using OEM repair kits and retest the same day. If the assembly is beyond repair, we replace it and get you recertified without delay.
Replacement & Upgrades
Aging assemblies, code changes, or increased hazard classifications can require a full replacement or upgrade from a DCVA to an RPZ. We remove the old unit, install the new assembly, test, certify, and coordinate with the water authority for acceptance.
Enclosure & Protection
Backflow assemblies exposed to weather, vandalism, or freeze risk need proper enclosures. We install insulated enclosures, cages, and bollard protection to keep your assembly safe and accessible year-round.
Multi-Property Programs
Managing multiple commercial properties with annual backflow testing due dates? We offer portfolio testing programs — one contractor, one schedule, consistent pricing across all your properties with consolidated reporting for your records.
Types of Backflow Assemblies
Choosing the right assembly for your hazard classification
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ)
The highest level of backflow protection. An RPZ assembly has two check valves and a pressure-differential relief valve that discharges water to atmosphere if either check valve fails. Required for high-hazard connections where contamination poses a serious health risk.
Required for: fire sprinkler systems, chemical feed lines, high-hazardDouble Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)
Two independently operating check valves in series. Provides protection for low-to-moderate hazard connections. More compact and less expensive than an RPZ, but not suitable for high-hazard applications.
Common for: irrigation, fire lines (where allowed), domestic connectionsDouble Check Detector Assembly (DCDA)
A double check assembly with a bypass meter that detects unauthorized water use or small leaks in fire service lines. Commonly required by water authorities on unmetered fire service connections.
Common for: fire service lines with bypass metering requirementsWhat Happens If You Don't Comply
Backflow testing isn't optional — and the consequences of non-compliance are real and enforced.
⚠️ Violation notices and fines from your local water district
⚠️ Water service shutoff for non-compliance — your water district has this authority
⚠️ Fire protection system out of compliance — no water means no sprinkler protection
⚠️ Insurance coverage gaps if your system is non-compliant at the time of a loss
⚠️ Liability exposure if backflow contamination affects the public water supply
✅ The test is quick, affordable, and far cheaper than any of the above
Due for Backflow Testing?
Don't wait for a violation notice. Schedule your annual test today — we'll handle the testing, certification, and paperwork for your water authority.
Schedule a Test