Everything You Need to Know About Backflow Testing

Backflow testing verifies that your backflow prevention assembly is working correctly — keeping contaminated water from reversing flow back into the public water supply. In Texas, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) mandates annual testing on all backflow devices. Your city water utility sends compliance notices when testing is due, and failure to comply can result in water service disconnection.

Texas law requires annual backflow testing on all backflow prevention devices connected to the public water system — regardless of the device type or property use. Some cities may require more frequent testing for high-hazard devices (fire lines, irrigation systems). Total Backflow Solutions tracks your test due date and schedules your annual test automatically — just call (682) 422-4089 to get on the schedule.

Total Backflow Solutions publishes pricing upfront — no phone tag, no vague quotes. Single device: $110 per test. Two devices at the same location: $185. Three or more devices: $80 per device. Commercial fire line: $200. Fire line with bypass: $225. All prices are plus city administrative fees (typically $15–$50 depending on your city).

If you miss your annual backflow test deadline, most DFW cities will send a compliance notice — and if you still don’t test, water service can be disconnected. Additionally, un-tested devices can fail without your knowledge, creating a health hazard. Total Backflow Solutions schedules tests proactively so you never miss a deadline. Call (682) 422-4089 to schedule your test before the due date.

A standard backflow test takes 15–30 minutes per device. No water shutoff is required for testing — we test while the system is live. We need access to the device itself, typically located near your water meter or in a mechanical room. Residential irrigation backflow devices are usually in a valve box in the yard. We handle everything on-site and file the report directly with your city.

We test all residential and commercial backflow prevention assembly types: Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) devices, Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA), Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB), Spill-Resistant Pressure Vacuum Breakers (SVB), and Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB). RPZ and DCVA are the most common for commercial and irrigation applications; PVB is common for residential irrigation. Call (682) 422-4089 to confirm your device type before scheduling.

Yes. We test backflow devices for both residential and commercial properties across the entire DFW metroplex. Residential tests start at $110 per device + city fees. Commercial testing (including fire lines, multi-device properties, and office parks) starts at $110 per device with volume pricing available. Whether you have one device or 20, call us at (682) 422-4089 for same-week scheduling.

We cover the entire Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex from one central location. Cities served include Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Denton, Irving, Grand Prairie, Garland, Mansfield, Richardson, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Weatherford, and Mineral Wells. No mileage fees within our standard service area. Call (682) 422-4089 to confirm service to your specific address.

Yes. Irrigation backflow prevention devices (PVB and DCVA) are one of our most common service calls. Most DFW cities require annual testing on any irrigation system connected to the public water supply. Our testers arrive with the right gauges and documentation to complete the test, file the report with your city water utility, and send you a copy. Residential irrigation tests start at $110 + city fees. Call (682) 422-4089 to schedule.

TCEQ stands for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality — the state agency that regulates backflow prevention and water system safety in Texas. TCEQ requires annual testing of all backflow prevention assemblies and mandates that test reports be filed with the local water utility. Total Backflow Solutions is a TCEQ-certified testing company. We know the requirements, carry the proper gauges, and file your test reports directly with your city so you stay compliant.

Scheduling is simple. Call (682) 422-4089 and we’ll confirm your location, device count, and schedule a test within the same week. You can also fill out the form on our contact page and we’ll call you to confirm. We serve all of DFW — give us your address and we’ll confirm we cover your area and schedule a time that works for you.

We offer same-week scheduling for most DFW locations. Same-day service depends on availability — call (682) 422-4089 before noon to check if same-day is possible for your area. If your test is due soon or you’re dealing with an emergency repair situation, we prioritize as quickly as possible. Most properties can be scheduled within 2–3 business days.

Our tester arrives at the scheduled time, locates the backflow prevention assembly, attaches a calibrated test gauge to measure the pressure readings, and runs through the required test sequence (for RPZ and DCVA devices, this includes upstream/downstream pressure checks and relief valve operation). The tester records the results on a TCEQ-compliant form and files the report directly with your city water utility. You receive a copy by email. Total time: 15–30 minutes per device.

Yes. If your backflow preventer fails the test, our tester will diagnose the issue on-site and provide a repair quote with parts pricing disclosed upfront before any work begins. Most repairs can be completed the same day. We handle RPZ, DCVA, PVB, and other device types. Repair costs vary by device type and parts needed — call (682) 422-4089 to discuss your specific situation. Note: a failed test does not mean you need a replacement — most failures are caused by worn washers, springs, or relief valve seals that are repairable.

Most residential and commercial properties with irrigation systems, fire suppression systems, or non-public water sources (wells, lakes) have a backflow device. Common locations: near the water meter (outside), in a mechanical room (commercial), or near the irrigation control valve (residential). If you’ve received a compliance notice from your city water utility, you definitely have a device. If you’re not sure, call (682) 422-4089 and describe your setup — we can help identify whether you have a device and whether it needs testing.