Backflow Services
A backflow preventer is required anywhere your plumbing has a cross-connection, a point where your potable water system connects to a source that could introduce contamination if pressure ever reversed. On a commercial property that includes irrigation lines, fire suppression systems, boiler and cooling systems, medical or lab equipment, commercial kitchen equipment, and chemical feed lines. If your property has any of these, your local water authority has likely already told you a device is required; if you're not sure, a Roto-Rooter technician can assess your connections and confirm what applies.
Most water authorities also require a periodic functional test of every installed device, on a schedule that varies by jurisdiction, and skipping it isn't a paperwork risk only: an untested or failing device is a real path for contamination to reach the public water supply, and consequences can include a compliance notice, a code violation, or, in some jurisdictions, a restricted water service until the device is tested and passes.
- Backflow testing, the recurring compliance check on a device already in place
- Backflow installation, for new construction and retrofits
- Backflow repair, for a device that's failed, leaked, or corroded
- Backflow replacement, for a device beyond repair (see the signs below)
Backflow Services - Customer Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is a backflow preventer required?
Backflow preventers are required in various commercial and industrial settings where there is a risk of contamination to the potable water supply. This includes restaurants, healthcare facilities, and any location where the water supply could be compromised by backflow. Local codes and regulations typically dictate where backflow preventers must be installed to ensure compliance and safety.
How to test a backflow preventer?
Testing a backflow preventer involves using calibrated gauges to measure the pressure and ensure the valves are functioning correctly. A certified technician will inspect the device, perform pressure tests, and verify that the backflow preventer is effectively preventing reverse water flow.
How to drain a backflow preventer?
To drain a backflow preventer, you need to shut off the water supply and open the test cocks to release any trapped water. This process may vary depending on the type of backflow preventer, so it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional.
How does a backflow preventer work?
A backflow preventer works by using a series of check valves and pressure zones to ensure that water flows in the correct direction. When the pressure in the clean water line drops, the valves close to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply.
What is a backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is a device installed in plumbing systems to prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply. It ensures that water only flows in one direction, protecting the potable water from contamination due to backflow.


