Backflow Testing in Walla Walla, WA
Protect your municipal drinking water and stay fully compliant with Washington State Department of Health and City of Walla Walla regulations with certified annual backflow assembly testing, rebuilds, and installations.
Certified Backflow Capabilities
Our licensed technicians carry calibrated differential pressure test gauges and factory replacement components for all assemblies:
- Annual test certification paperwork submitted directly to water purveyors
- Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) testing for residential lawn sprinklers
- Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) subterranean vault testing
- Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RPBA) commercial testing
- Emergency rebuilds of failed check valves, relief ports & O-rings
Why Washington State Mandates Annual Backflow Testing
Preventing cross-contamination between non-potable irrigation water and the potable municipal drinking supply.
In Walla Walla, domestic drinking water is distributed through pressurized municipal supply mains. When a sudden drop in water main pressure occurs—such as during a major main break, fire hydrant flushing, or heavy agricultural irrigation demand—a vacuum condition (backsiphonage) can develop inside the municipal water network.
If a residential lawn irrigation system or commercial boiler connection lacks a functioning backflow preventer, non-potable water containing lawn fertilizers, pesticides, animal waste, or industrial chemicals can be drawn backward directly into your household drinking lines and the public water supply.
Under Washington Administrative Code (WAC 246-290-490) and City of Walla Walla municipal cross-connection control policies, all backflow prevention assemblies must be tested by a certified Backflow Assembly Tester (BAT) upon installation, following any repair, and at least once every calendar year.
Common Systems Requiring Annual Testing:
- Lawn Sprinkler Systems: Underground irrigation zones containing fertilizer injectors or low-lying sprinkler heads.
- Commercial Plumbing & Wineries: Tasting rooms, bottle washing lines, barrel rinsing facilities, and glycol cooling loops.
- Dedicated Fire Sprinkler Lines: Stagnant water held inside residential and commercial fire suppression systems.
- Commercial Kitchens & Restaurants: Beverage carbonators, chemical sanitizers, and dishwashing machines.
What Happens During a Certified Backflow Test?
Our certified technician connects a precision differential pressure test kit to the test cocks on your backflow assembly. We measure the spring tension and sealing ability of the first and second check valves, record the opening point of the hydraulic relief valve (on RPBA units), and verify that shutoff valves seal air-tight.
Once verified, we complete the official cross-connection test report, provide you with a copy for your records, and submit electronic documentation directly to the City of Walla Walla or applicable water utility.
Winter Freeze Protection for Backflow Valves
Outdoor backflow assemblies—particularly above-ground PVB units on residential sprinkler systems—are prime targets for catastrophic freeze damage during Walla Walla winter cold snaps. We provide seasonal blowouts, insulated freeze bags, and rapid rebuilding if frost cracks your valve body.
Received a Backflow Testing Notice from Your Water Purveyor?
Call our certified Walla Walla dispatch team to schedule your annual test without delay.
Backflow Assembly Types We Test and Service
Factory-trained testing and rebuilds across all major manufacturer brands including Wilkins, Febco, Watts, and Apollo.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB)
Elevated exterior assemblies commonly installed on residential lawn sprinkler systems, protecting potable lines against backsiphonage conditions.
Double Check Valves (DCVA)
Subterranean vault assemblies featuring two independent spring-loaded check valves, commonly utilized on low-hazard commercial and residential fire lines.
Reduced Pressure Assemblies (RPBA)
High-hazard protection devices featuring dual check valves and a differential relief valve that discharges to atmosphere in high-risk commercial setups.
Walla Walla Plumbing Services
Reliable diagnostics, certified repairs, and code-compliant installations engineered for Walla Walla County mineral-heavy hard water, freezing winter temperatures, and historic architecture.
Walla Walla & Surrounding Valley Service Areas
Direct mobile plumbing dispatch serving residential neighborhoods, historic districts, and Walla Walla Valley communities.