Contact us and we will schedule an appointment with you to test your Backflow Preventer Assembly.

A Technician will arrive and make contact before setting up for the test.
Once permission is given, the Technician will briefly turn your water off to complete the test procedures for your Backflow Preventer Assembly.
All test results and observations of the area are reviewed with you.
A passing test report will be filed with your water supplier or other water authority and the valve will be tagged.
If a Backflow does not pass, REPH will work with you and recommend a path forward. We want your valve to function correctly for many reasons and we can review some options with you. With cost and integrity in mind, we can propose a plan.

An Certified Tester will perform the Field Test procedures and file the Field Test Report with your water supplier or other water authority.

Backflow Preventer Assemblies have moving parts and seals that can fail for various reasons. It's normal to have some periodic repairs.
Diagnosing your Backflow Preventer Assembly correctly can mean the difference between partial repair and total replacement. Diagnosing and repair is our company goal.
An estimate to repair your Backflow will be provided if it fails one or more checks during the initial Field Test.

Backflow is when contaminated water has reversed flow and entered clean water lines. It can occur at any cross-connection between clean and dirty water lines and is typically caused by a significant change in water pressure - such as from a burst water main. The dirty water may contain hazardous materials like human waste, pesticides, or chemicals, so it poses a serious health concern.

First off, any NORTH DAKOTA resident who has an irrigation system or a well is required to install a backflow preventer at the water meter (because both systems are at risk of contamination due to backflow).
without an irrigation system or well? If so, you're probably wondering if you need a backflow prevention device installed at your home.
Well, we still recommend you have a backflow preventer installed anywhere incoming water and wastewater might be cross connected.
Newer homes may have built-in backflow preventers on certain water lines but in order to know for sure whether your home has proper backflow preventers set up, we suggest having a plumber inspect your home's water system. They'll install backflow preventers where it's needed.

A safety device can be installed to prevent backflow from occurring. In the case of an unexpected or dramatic change in water pressure, this device will stop dirty water from entering the clean water supply. However, this device must be properly installed and tested to ensure that the clean water line remains free of contaminants.

Municipal codes require annual testing of backflow prevention devices to ensure that they are functioning properly. You can be fined if testing is not completed on time, or the water supply to your property or business might be cut off. That is why we recommend scheduling testing well ahead of time.

Deciding between a PVB and an RPZ backflow preventer can be challenging when safeguarding your water system.

Choosing between a PVB vs RPZ backflow preventer can feel overwhelming when you're trying to protect your water system. Both devices prevent contaminated water from flowing back into clean water supplies, but they work differently and fit different situations.

The right choice depends on your system's pressure requirements, installation location, and local building codes. PVB units work well for basic irrigation systems and lower-pressure applications. RPZ devices handle higher pressures and offer more protection for complex.
We'll compare the main differences between these backflow preventers to help you decide which suits your needs. Below, we cover key aspects like performance, protection, maintenance, and installation requirements.

Keep up! You'll learn about pressure requirements, installation rules, and safety standards that affect your decision.

PVB and RPZ backflow preventers use different methods to protect your water supply from contamination. PVBs rely on air intake and spring-loaded valves, while RPZ systems use dual check valves with pressure monitoring for higher-risk applications.

A pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) uses two main parts to stop backflow in your plumbing system. The first part is a spring-loaded check valve that blocks water from flowing backward.
EPA guidance explains that RPZ assemblies include two independent check valves and a pressure relief valve that keeps a reduced-pressure zone between them-automatically discharging water if pressure increases beyond safe levels.
The second part is an air inlet valve that opens when water pressure drops. This valve lets air into the system to prevent vacuum formation.
When water pressure is normal, the check valve stays closed and blocks reverse flow. The air inlet valve also stays closed during normal operation.
If pressure drops suddenly, the air inlet valve opens automatically. This breaks any vacuum that could pull contaminated water back into your clean water supply.

Key components of a PVB:

• Spring-loaded check valve
• Air inlet valve
• Valve body housing

An RPZ backflow preventer has more parts than a PVB system. It uses two independent check valves with a pressure-reducing valve between them.
The space between the two check valves creates a reduced pressure zone. This zone stays at lower pressure than both the water supply and the downstream system.
If either check valve fails, the pressure zone drops even more. This triggers a relief valve that dumps water to the ground instead of letting it flow backward.
RPZ system components:

• First check valve (supply side)
• Pressure-reducing valve
• Second check valve (system side)
• Relief valve with discharge port

PVB installation requirements:

• Must be above ground level
• Air inlet needs clear access to atmosphere
• Cannot be installed underground
• Works well for residential irrigation

• Can go above or below ground
• Needs drainage for relief valve discharge
• Requires more space for maintenance
• Often used in commercial applications

PVB and RPZ devices work differently under pressure changes, need different maintenance schedules, and provide varying levels of water supply protection.

PVB systems perform well under steady water pressure but struggle when pressure drops suddenly. When pressure falls, the air inlet valve opens to prevent backflow. This works fine for most home irrigation systems.
RPZ devices handle pressure changes much better. They use two check valves with a pressure zone between them. This design keeps working even when pressure drops quickly.
Key Performance Differences:

• PVB: Works best with steady pressure
• RPZ: Handles pressure changes reliably
• PVB: May fail during sudden pressure drops
• RPZ: Continues protecting during pressure fluctuations

PVB maintenance is simpler and costs less. We typically service these devices once per year. The main tasks include checking the air inlet valve and testing the check valve.
RPZ systems need more frequent maintenance. We recommend testing them twice per year. These devices have more moving parts that can wear out.
Maintenance Requirements:

• PVB: Annual testing, simple repairs
• RPZ: Semi-annual testing, complex repairs
• PVB: Lower maintenance costs
• RPZ: Higher maintenance costs but better reliability

PVB devices provide basic protection against low-hazard situations. They work well for lawn sprinkler systems and simple irrigation. These systems protect against back-siphonage but not back-pressure.
RPZ systems offer the highest level of protection. They guard against both back-pressure and back-siphonage. We use these for high-hazard situations where contaminated water could enter the supply.
Protection Levels:

• PVB: Low to moderate hazard protection
• RPZ: High hazard protection
• PVB: Back-siphonage protection only
• RPZ: Back-pressure and back-siphonage protection

PVB devices for most residential irrigation systems. These work for single-family homes with basic sprinkler systems. The code allows PVB installation above ground level.
RPZ systems are required for commercial properties and high-risk residential applications. RPZ devices for systems with fertilizer injectors or near contamination sources.
Requirements:

• PVB: Standard residential irrigation
• RPZ: Commercial and high-risk residential
• PVB: Must install 12 inches above highest sprinkler
• RPZ: Can install at ground level

We need to match the right backflow preventer to your specific system based on risk level, property characteristics, and installation requirements. The choice between these devices depends on hazard assessment, elevation constraints, and system design factors.

Risk assessment drives our device selection process. We use PVBs for low-risk residential irrigation systems where contamination potential is minimal.
RPZ devices are required for high-risk applications. These include:

• Commercial properties with chemical injection systems
• Industrial facilities with fertilizer or pesticide connections
• Any system with downstream valves below the backflow preventer
• Properties near contamination sources

Elevation requirements severely limit PVB installation options. We must install PVBs at least 12 inches above the highest sprinkler head or irrigation point.
This height restriction makes PVBs unsuitable for many systems. Sloped properties often cannot accommodate the elevation difference needed.
RPZ devices have no elevation restrictions. We can install them at ground level or even below grade in valve boxes.
RPZ units allow unlimited downstream valving. We can install zone controls, manual shutoffs, and other valves without compromising system compatibility.

We recommend professional consultation before selecting backflow preventers. Licensed irrigation contractors understand local codes and system compatibility requirements.
Backflow testing professionals can assess your specific risk factors. They evaluate water sources, chemical usage, and system design to recommend appropriate devices.
Local water authorities often provide guidance on device selection. Many utilities maintain lists of approved backflow preventers for different applications.
We also suggest consulting with irrigation designers for complex systems. They can evaluate elevation constraints and downstream valve requirements during the planning phase.
Professional installation ensures proper system compatibility and code compliance. This prevents costly modifications and ensures reliable backflow protection.

Local water authorities set specific rules about which backflow preventer you must install. Professional testing ensures your device works correctly, while regular inspections keep you compliant with ongoing safety requirements.

Water departments in your area decide which backflow preventer type you need based on your property's risk level. They review factors like your water use, nearby contamination sources, and system pressure.
Most cities require reduced pressure zone (RPZ) devices for high-risk properties. These include hospitals, chemical plants, and buildings with boiler systems. The RPZ provides the strongest protection against contamination.
Pressure vacuum breakers (PVB) are often allowed for lower-risk applications. Residential sprinkler systems and simple irrigation setups typically qualify for PVB installation.
Your local plumbing code determines installation requirements too. Some areas need specific clearances, drain connections, or freeze protection measures. Check with your water utility before choosing between PVB and RPZ options.
Commercial properties face stricter rules than homes. Industrial facilities may need multiple backflow preventers at different connection points.

Professional testing verifies that your backflow preventer operates within safe pressure ranges. Certified testers use specialized gauges to measure how well the device prevents reverse water flow.
The testing process checks each internal component. For RPZ devices, we test the relief valve, check valves, and differential pressure readings. PVB testing focuses on the air inlet valve and check valve function.
Annual testing is mandatory in most areas. Some high-risk properties need testing twice per year. Failed tests require immediate repairs or device replacement.
Testing results go directly to your water department. They track compliance and may shut off water service for untested or failed devices. Keep your test reports as proof of compliance.
Only licensed backflow testers can perform these inspections. They must calibrate their equipment annually and report results within specific timeframes.

Visual inspections between formal tests help catch problems early. Look for leaks, corrosion, or damaged components that could affect performance.
Monthly checks should include:

• Relief valve discharge
• Proper drainage
• Freeze protection
• Physical damage
• Debris buildup

REPH provides expert guidance for selecting between PVB and RPZ systems, along with professional installation and ongoing maintenance services. We offer certified testing and complete support from initial setup through required annual inspections.

We evaluate your specific system requirements to determine whether a PVB or RPZ backflow preventer best suits your needs. Our team considers factors like water pressure, installation location, and local code requirements.
Underground installations typically require RPZ units due to their durability. Above-ground systems often work well with PVB devices.
We handle the complete installation process according to manufacturer specifications. Our certified technicians ensure proper positioning, connections, and testing before system activation.
Installation includes:

• Site assessment and preparation
• Device positioning and mounting
• Connection to existing plumbing
• Initial testing and calibration

We provide certified testing services for both PVB and RPZ backflow preventers. Our technicians hold current certifications and use calibrated testing equipment.
Testing involves checking valve operation, pressure differentials, and overall system performance. We identify any issues that could compromise backflow prevention.
Our testing process covers:

• Relief valve function
• Check valve operation
• Pressure zone performance
• Leak detection

We provide ongoing support throughout your backflow preventer's lifespan. Our services include routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and annual inspections.
Annual inspections ensure your device continues protecting your water supply. We schedule these visits in advance and send reminders.
Our support services include:

• Preventive maintenance
• Emergency repair calls
• Parts replacement
• System upgrades

Choosing between PVB and RPZ backflow preventers depends on your specific water system needs. We must consider the level of contamination risk in our plumbing system.
The hazard level of our water system determines which device we need. Higher contamination risks require RPZ protection.
Installation location matters too. PVB units need proper height placement above sprinkler heads. RPZ devices offer more flexible positioning options.
Maintenance requirements differ between these systems. RPZ preventers need more frequent testing and upkeep. PVB units require less complex maintenance schedules.
Cost considerations play a role in our decision. PVB systems cost less upfront and have lower maintenance expenses. RPZ units require higher initial investment but provide superior protection.
We should consult with certified professionals to determine the right choice. They can assess our property's specific needs and local code requirements.
Regular testing keeps both systems working properly. Professional maintenance protects our water supply and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
Schedule a professional assessment today to ensure your property uses the right backflow preventer for safety and code compliance