5 Signs Your Backflow Preventer Needs Immediate Attention

Home / 5 Signs Your Backflow Preventer Needs Immediate Attention

backflow preventer

When clean water and wastewater start to mix, the results can be dangerous. A malfunctioning backflow preventer allows contaminants to enter your water supply, which can threaten your health and damage your plumbing system. As a company that’s performed countless backflow testing and repairs, we’ve seen how quickly things can go wrong when warning signs are ignored. That’s why staying alert to changes in your system matters. Whether you own a business or manage a property, scheduling backflow installation in Lakewood Ranch, FL, can prevent costly repairs and protect your water quality.

1. Noticeable Changes in Water Quality

The first sign of trouble is usually something you can see, smell, or taste. Discolored or cloudy water may indicate contamination from a faulty valve or damaged assembly. A metallic or foul odor can signal that your backflow preventer is no longer sealing properly. When we perform a backflow inspection, we often find mineral buildup or worn seals causing these changes and problems that require immediate backflow repair before the contamination spreads.

2. Reduced or Fluctuating Water Pressure

A drop in water pressure could mean your backflow device isn’t regulating flow correctly. This often happens when internal components stick or corrode. Our certified backflow tester can conduct a complete backflow preventer testing procedure to determine whether it’s time for cleaning, calibration, or backflow valve replacement. Ignoring this sign can strain your plumbing system and compromise your property’s water supply.

3. Visible Leaks or Pooling Around the Unit

If you see water collecting near your backflow device, take it seriously. A small leak can quickly worsen, especially if the housing or check valves have cracked. During a backflow valve inspection, we check for corrosion and gasket wear that may call for backflow replacement. Timely backflow services can prevent damage to nearby pipes and foundations, saving you from a much larger repair later.

4. Failure During an Annual Backflow Testing

State and local regulations require annual backflow testing to keep water systems compliant. Failing a backflow prevention testing means there’s a mechanical or pressure imbalance inside the unit. We conduct detailed backflow assembly test procedures to pinpoint what went wrong and perform backflow system installation and repair if needed. Skipping these annual inspections increases the risk of contamination events.

5. Age and Wear of the Backflow Device

Most devices last around five years, depending on usage and maintenance. If yours is nearing that mark, it’s time for a thorough backflow preventer inspection or possible backflow device testing to assess its condition. Aging units may not respond well to repair, and full backflow valve replacement could be the safer choice to maintain your system’s integrity.

Common Questions About Backflow Prevention

How often should I schedule residential backflow testing?

Once a year is recommended for testing and most other backflow services, or immediately after any plumbing modification that affects water pressure.

What happens if I don’t check backflow preventer performance regularly?

You risk contamination of your potable water supply, possible fines, and higher repair costs later.

Are all backflow testing companies required to be certified?

Yes. Only a certified backflow tester can legally perform backflow prevention device testing and submit compliance reports.

Protect Your Property’s Water Supply Today

Clean water is too important to leave to chance. Accurate Backflow & Plumbing has been locally owned and operated since 2000, providing quality repairs and exceptional customer service across the community. From annual backflow testing to full backflow replacement, we deliver dependable results backed by fair and transparent pricing.

Call us today for a free estimate and let our team help keep your water safe and compliant.

WE AIM TO DELIVER 5-STAR
SERVICE TO EVERY CUSTOMER

We appreciate and value our customers and it shows! We are committed to extraordinary customer-focused service. We stand by the statement:

"When Quality Matters, Hire The Best!"

Highest Google Rated Backflow Provider

Danny DeJarnette
Danny DeJarnette
Google Review

They make it easy. You schedule your test online. They take care of the rest and even send the results to the county. Very competitive/affordable price as well. I even write in the notes when I schedule my test that if it needs a repair that costs less than $100 to please repair on the spot. Over $100, call me. Only once (when I needed a repair) did I receive an invoice for more than the typical service fee — my leak was repaired and I didn't even have to worry about it. Very please with how easy they make things.

Hannah Sidwell
Hannah Sidwell
Google Review

They are awesome! This year I hired Accurate, as I have past years, but then my neighborhood hired another company. The company hired by the neighbor completely botched it, but the county only looks at the last test result done. Accurate really had my back, talked to the county for me to make sure the bad company retested. Would definitely recommend Accurate Backflow!

Samantha Stewart
Samantha Stewart
Google Review

Have had a great experience with Accurate. We have used them for 4-5yrs running. Very simple process for us email to schedule appointment and they turn in all the paperwork for you. We have never had any issues and it’s such an easy process to pay as soon as you get the email invoice, and it’s super reasonable.

Streamline, efficient and stress free. Thank you!

Iris Kraft
Iris Kraft
Google Review

Tracy was incredible in answering all my questions, great listener, was able to coordinate a backflow and I saved money by signing up for three additional years. She even managed to have replacement handles installed (original ones rusted out).
Refreshing to have real customer service.

Bob C
Bob C
Google Review

I have used Accurate Backflow for over 10 years. I have always had prompt efficient service. They make it so easy to schedule an appointment and to pay after the work is completed.

Petrina Causer
Petrina Causer
Google Review

I have used Accurate Team for years for our annual back flow testing. They have made the process seamless from the initial reminder email, allowing easy scheduling, auto report submission and autopay. Reliable company, highly recommended.

G S
G S
Google Review

Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing responded quickly to my request for testing. They came out within a few days. Did the testing put their stamp of approval on our water system coming into the home. We are very satisfied with their service would highly recommend them.

Jennifer Balades
Jennifer Balades
Google Review

I have used Accurate Backflow Testing since I moved to Lakewood Ranch. Always timely, fair pricing, great communication. I have never been let down by them.

Teri Walker
Teri Walker
Google Review

Easy online booking, quick response to booking request, testing done within a few days, completion/pass tag left on door, easy online payment. Will definitely use this company again!

KirkandStacy Weingarten
KirkandStacy Weingarten
Google Review

Accurate has been great! The website ordering system is so easy to use. You place the order they come out and bill you. Love how little effort ii need to make to order back flow.

When Quality Matters, Hire The Best!

Call Us Now and Let’s Get Started

The team here at Accurate Backflow & Plumbing is standing by to serve as your trusted local plumber in Bradenton, FL. So, call us or fill out the form to book your appointment with our staff today.

Accurate Backflow, Plumbing & Air white bg