What backflow is
Backflow is water flowing the wrong way, from a building's plumbing back into the City water main. It can happen when pressure drops in the main, or when equipment in a building pushes water back. If that water has picked up chemicals, boiler water or anything else, it can contaminate the public supply.
A backflow preventer is a testable assembly of valves that only lets water flow one way. The City's program requires a premise isolation device, which protects the whole building at the point where water enters.
What we do
- Assessment. We review your building's water use and existing devices, and tell you what the City requires.
- Installation. We install or replace the right assembly to the CSA standard the City references, with a building permit where required.
- Testing. Devices have to be tested by a qualified tester and kept in working order. We test, repair and re-test, and submit the results.
- Records. We keep your test dates on file and remind you before the next one is due.
Who usually needs one
- Restaurants and commercial kitchens
- Offices, retail and plazas
- Medical and dental clinics
- Schools, churches and community buildings
- Apartment and condo buildings
- Buildings with boilers, irrigation or fire sprinkler systems
If you've received a letter from the City about backflow prevention, send it to us and we'll tell you what it means for your building.
Got a backflow notice from the City?
We'll assess your building, install what's needed and keep your annual testing on schedule.
