Commercial Plumbing
Plumbing service for shops, offices, multi-unit buildings and shopping plazas.
Gas, backflow and commercial
Backflow Testing and Prevention in St. Petersburg
A backflow preventer stops contaminated water from flowing backward into the drinking supply. It sits on irrigation lines, fire systems and commercial plumbing, and it needs regular testing.
If you got a notice to test your device, mention it when you call.
Where backflow devices sit
- Irrigation linesFertilizer and pesticides can be drawn back into the supply.
- Commercial plumbingBoilers, car washes and food service often need one.
- Reclaimed water connectionsCross-connections must be prevented.
What backflow is
Normally water flows from the main into the house. A drop in supply pressure, from a main break or heavy firefighting demand, can reverse the flow. If a hose is sitting in a pool or a lawn sprayer is connected, contaminated water can be drawn back into the clean supply.
A backflow preventer is a valve assembly that closes when flow reverses. It protects the home and the neighbors.
Types of devices
A hose bibb vacuum breaker screws onto an outdoor spigot. A pressure vacuum breaker, a double check valve and a reduced pressure zone assembly protect irrigation, fire and commercial lines, with increasing levels of protection for higher hazards. Which one is required depends on the hazard and local rules.
The utility or local plumbing code sets the requirement. A plumber can tell you which device your system needs and whether it is installed correctly.
Cost
What affects the price of backflow work
Testing is a routine visit, and repairs depend on the device.
Ask whether the price includes filing the report with the utility.
In St. Pete
Irrigation, reclaimed water and storms
Many lawns in Pinellas County have in-ground sprinkler systems, and most of them need a backflow device. Hurricane flooding can submerge devices and bring debris into the system, so have the device checked after a major flood.
If you are unsure whether your property needs a test, ask the City of St. Petersburg water department.
Testing
Many utilities require testing of backflow assemblies each year. A certified tester checks that the check valves seal and the relief valve opens as designed, and files the report with the utility. A device that fails needs repair, often a new seat, disc or spring, or replacement.
Keep the test report. The utility may ask for it. Ask the contractor whether they file the report for you.
Irrigation and reclaimed water
St. Petersburg runs a reclaimed water system for irrigation in parts of the city. Reclaimed water is not meant for drinking, and its pipes must never connect to the drinking supply. If your property has a reclaimed water connection, a plumber can check that there is no cross-connection.
Irrigation systems add fertilizer, chemicals and standing water around heads and valves. The device keeps those out of your drinking supply. Check yours after a mower or a storm damages the area around it.
Signs of a problem
A device that spits water from its relief port, a handle that will not turn or a cracked body is overdue for attention. A sudden drop in water pressure after work on the line can also point to a fouled check valve.
Sprinkler heads that stay wet, a damp box around the device or a wet patch near the assembly point to a leak. An exposed device can be hit by a mower, a vehicle or debris, and a damaged one may not protect the line.
Planning the test visit
Clear the area around the device before the tester arrives, and make sure the cover or box can be opened. The tester shuts off the water to the line for a short time to run the test, so tell anyone who uses the irrigation or the building water that it will be off for a while.
Booking a test and what it costs
Many backflow calls start with a price question. Test pricing varies with the device type, number of devices and access. Ask what the test fee covers, whether a report is filed and what a repair or replacement would cost if the device fails.
Reporting rules depend on the water utility and local program. Ask the dispatcher whether the contractor files the paperwork or hands it to you.
Sprinkler leaks and the backflow device
A leaking sprinkler head or a zone valve is a landscaping or irrigation matter. A leaking backflow assembly, or a supply pipe feeding the system, is plumbing. If you are unsure which it is, describe what you see and the dispatcher will say what the contractor handles.
Related services
Pool Leak Detection & Repair
Tell a pool leak from evaporation, then trace it to the pipe, valve or fitting.
Water Line Repair & Replacement
Repair or replace the pipe that carries water from the meter into the house.
Common questions
Backflow questions
Many utilities require an annual test. Ask your water provider for the local rule.
A certified tester. Ask for the tester's certification before the work.
It needs repair or replacement and a retest. The utility may set a deadline.
Most in-ground systems do. Local code decides which type.
Ask this on the call. Procedures depend on the utility, and the dispatcher can confirm what the contractor does.
Yes. A failed device is usually repaired or replaced, then retested.
Irrigation heads and zone valves are often handled by an irrigation specialist. A plumber covers the supply line and the backflow device. The dispatcher can sort out which you need.
Backflow device due for a test?
Call and say what type of device you have. The dispatcher will connect you with a local contractor.