Allthrive has been testing backflow assemblies in Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Malaga, Rock Island, Chelan, and Cashmere since 2013. Last season, we tested just shy of 650 backflow valves. We can test commercial, industrial, and residential backflow valves. We test at many local residences, restaurants, coffee shops, dentist offices, and even a Funeral home! Travis Richardson is a certified (BAT) Backflow Assembly Tester and a Specialty Backflow Plumber who can take part and repair backflow assemblies. Travis is also certified to enter confined spaces. Keep your reminder letter from your water purveyor handy if you have received it. It is not a necessity, but makes the job a little easier. We can usually be there the next business day or two to test your valve(s). Travis can usually turn in the paperwork to the appropriate water purveyor the same day and get copies of the report(s) and invoicing to the customer. The following year, after we test your valve(s), we will get a hold of you to set up an appointment with you to test again. Allthrive is currently signed up to test backflow assemblies for the City of Wenatchee, East Wenatchee Water District, Chelan County PUD, City of Cashmere, City of Rock Island, and Malaga Water District. If your purveyor is not on that list, it is not too difficult to be added to others.
Back Flow Assembly Testing
There are four types of backflow assemblies: Double Check Valve Assembly, Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RP Backflow), and Pressure Vacuum Breaker. The most common assembly in Wenatchee and East Wenatchee is a double-check valve, followed by an RP Backflow. They are found on domestic sprinkler systems and fire protection systems. Backflow assemblies also need to be installed and tested on anything that has been permanently installed to a domestic water source (pop machines, ice makers, industrial cleaning supplies, and anti-freeze liquid, to name a few locations).
FAQ-
What is a backflow assembly?
A backflow prevention assembly is a mechanical device that allows water to flow only in the intended direction. The assembly prevents the reversal flow of water or other substances from entering the potable drinking water system.
Washington State Department of Health requires (WAC 246-290-490) a Double Check Valve Assembly to be installed when a landscape irrigation sprinkler system uses or is designed to use domestic water as the only water source. A Reduced Pressure Back Flow Assembly is required if your landscape sprinkler system has a cross connection of irrigation water and domestic water. You will also find backflow assemblies on fire protection sprinkler systems and Carbonated beverage machines.
Why do backflow assemblies have to be tested?
Any backflow assembly can fail because of freezing, debris, improper installation, and unapproved plumbing connections. Backflow preventers are mechanical assemblies with internal seals, springs, and moving parts. Like everything mechanical, the assemblies are subject to fouling, normal wear, and fatigue. Sometimes, backflow assemblies and air gaps are bypassed. Washington state law requires that backflow assemblies be tested annually by a certified backflow assembly tester to ensure that the assemblies work properly if there is a backflow event. Annual inspections are necessary to keep the public drinking water system safe from possible contaminants. A visual inspection of an air gap is sufficient, but backflow assemblies must be tested by a Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester using a properly calibrated gauge.
This house in the Sunnyslope neighborhood of Wenatchee, WA is lucky to have a domestic water hook up as well as irrigation water rights. With the domestic water they have the ability to turn on and off their water supply so they can water for maybe a couple more weeks earlier and a couple weeks later than irrigation water users.
Where would a backflow assembly be if I had one?
If installed correctly, your assembly will be within 3' of your main shut off for that system. They can be found in numerous places. Examples-By the sidewalk close to your water meter, near the house where the main water supply comes in, or under your house near the main water supply. If installed incorrectly, assemblies cannot be properly identified or tested. If you have a domestic fire system, they can be found in your garage. Backflow assemblies can also be found near Carbonated beverage machines and ice machines (Restaurants, Convenience stores, Grocery stores, Schools, and Bars).
What do I need to do if I have a backflow assembly?
Assemblies must be tested and inspected upon installation and annually after that to ensure that they are properly working. The results are sent to your local water purveyor. If you live in Wenatchee, you must get a $50 permit to install a backflow assembly. This is where to go for the permit: http://www.wenatcheewa.gov/index.aspx?page=135
Can anybody test backflow assemblies?
Only a Washington State Certified Back Flow Assembly Tester can perform the required test on the assembly. This tester must also be listed with the water purveyor with their Washington State certification card and test kit calibration report. Travis Richardson B5935 of Allthrive LLC is a Washington State Back Flow Assembly Tester as well as a licensed Backflow Specialty Plumber RICHAT*818CR; he is registered to test with the City of Wenatchee and East Wenatchee Water District, as well as Chelan County PUD.
To view our BAT Certification by Washington Certification Services, click here. License number B5935.
To view Travis’s name on the East Wenatchee Water District’s 2023 list of certified backflow testers, Click here.
To view Travis's name on the City of Wenatchee’s 2023 list of certified backflow testers, Click here.