What is a backflow preventer?
It's the valve assembly where your sprinkler system connects to your home's water supply, often on an outside wall near the foundation. It lets water flow out to the sprinklers and stops it from ever flowing back. That matters because water sitting in sprinkler lines can pick up fertilizer, soil and whatever else is on the lawn, and a drop in water pressure can pull it backward toward the pipes your family drinks from.
Why does it need testing every year?
A backflow preventer has springs and seals that wear out. A failing one looks fine from the outside, so the only way to know it still works is to test it. Many water utilities require a yearly test on lawn sprinkler systems.
If yours doesn't pass, it needs to be repaired or replaced before the system is used again.
Which packages include backflow testing?
All three. Basic, Preferred and Premium each include backflow testing.
Compare the three irrigation packages
Standard
The yearly essentials.
Your system turned on in spring, its backflow preventer tested, and the water cleared out before it freezes.
Includes:✓ Sprinkler system startup
✓ Backflow testing
✓ Winterization
Preferred
Plus a full checkup.
Everything in Basic, plus a sprinkler system audit once a year: heads adjusted, valves checked and the system tuned so it runs properly.
Includes:✓ Sprinkler system startup
✓ Sprinkler system audit, once a year
✓ Backflow testing
✓ Winterization
Premium
A checkup three times a year.
Everything in Preferred, with the sprinkler system audit done three times a year instead of once.
Includes:✓ Sprinkler system startup
✓ Sprinkler system audit, three times a year
✓ Backflow testing
✓ Winterization
Repairs aren't part of any package. Broken heads, leaks, valves and controllers are priced by the job.
What does backflow testing cost?
Backflow testing comes with every irrigation package, so your price depends on the package you choose and your system. Send your address and we'll call you with a price.
