Backflow Prevention
Installation, Service, Testing & Certification
Backflow Prevention in New Jersey
Why Backflow Prevention is Crucial
Backflow prevention is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the water supply. In New Jersey, regulatory requirements mandate the installation of backflow prevention devices to prevent the contamination of public water systems. Backflow incidents can occur when water pressure changes, allowing non-potable water to flow back into the clean water supply, posing serious health risks.
What a backflow preventer is, what it does and why you need it
A backflow preventer is a device with valves that is installed on the pipe bringing water into your business or residence to prevent water from flowing (backward) from your building into the domestic water supply. This sometimes happens due to a change in water pressure. The backflow can contaminate the potable domestic water supply and make people sick if they drink it. The backflow prevention device, which can be installed in about 2 hours, works automatically to prevent water from being able to flow backward into the domestic water system.
Contact Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. for Expert Solutions
Ensure the safety and compliance of your business with our expert backflow prevention services. At Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., we understand the unique needs of businesses in New Jersey and offer tailored solutions to meet regulatory standards. Contact us today to discuss your backflow prevention requirements and secure the integrity of the water supply.
Backflow Preventer Certifications
What’s Included?
- Testing and certification of existing Backflow Preventer.
- Completion of certification form.
- Online submission of the certification with the water department or municipality.
- Annual reminders for recertifcation.
- Repair and recertification if needed.
What To Expect?
- Certification takes about 20 minutes.
- Water will be turned off during this time.
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate the customer’s needs.
- Certification can be done in any season.
- Backflow prevention devices on irrigation systems should be certified in the Spring.
Backflow prevention devices must be tested annually to meet both Federal EPA and New Jersey DEP requirements. Installation of the backflow preventer devices can be done by a licensed plumber but only certified Backflow Preventer Inspectors can certify the devices. The advantage of using Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is that our plumbers can install and certify the devices. We are certified through the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA).
Backflow Prevention Testing Q & As
Who determines what properties need a backflow preventer?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP) have established guidelines on the type of facilities and businesses that need a backflow preventer. Local water companies are enforcing the installation and certification of backflow preventers in our area. Backflow preventers should be checked by a licensed professional every year to confirm the devices are working properly. If a device is not working repairs or replacement should be made.
Do I need one backflow preventer for each water meter?
Yes, a backflow preventer needs to be installed on each water supply coming into your commercial or multi-family residential property.
How often do backflow preventers need to be certified?
Federal and state laws require all backflow preventers to be certified once a year. However, check with your local municipality as some require quarterly testing of these devices.
Does Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. install backflow preventers?
Yes. Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. offers a comprehensive service program and has several certified technicians on staff to install and certify backflow preventers. Xcel will install the backflow preventer, certify the system and then upload the certificate to the water department—a service that makes this process easy for the consumer. Xcel will also notify customers when recertification of their device is needed.
The Xcel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Advantage
Not all backflow preventer devices are equal. Different cross-connections pose different risks which may require the use of different types of backflow prevention based on the degree of the hazard. Our qualified commercial backflow preventer testers can easily identify these differences and ensure the proper device is being used. Should you have the wrong device or a faulty device on any connection point, our technicians are prepared to replace or repair your backflow preventer so that it meets regulatory standards, saving you both time and money.
Our backflow preventer testing is done at a nominal cost, and we offer discounts for properties with five or more devices. We have several qualified testers on site. Call (973) 770-1611 today to schedule your testing.
When Is a Backflow Preventer Used?
Irrigation Systems: If your property has an irrigation system that is connected to the main water supply, it’s advisable to install a backflow preventer. This prevents contaminants from the irrigation system, such as fertilizers and pesticides, from flowing back into the clean water supply.
Outdoor Hose Connections: If you have outdoor hose connections, particularly with the use of chemical sprayers or fertilizers, a backflow preventer is essential. This prevents any potentially contaminated water from flowing back into the building’s plumbing system.
Swimming Pools or Hot Tubs: Properties with swimming pools or hot tubs should have backflow preventers installed. Chemicals used in these recreational water features can pose health risks if they enter the main water supply.
Proactive Property Owners: Even if not explicitly required, property owners may choose to install a backflow preventer as a proactive measure to ensure the safety of drinking water. Regular testing and maintenance of the backflow preventer are crucial to confirm its effectiveness.
Client Testimonials
Passionate, Experienced and Reliable, &
Family-Owned & Operated
Couldn't Be Happier With Their Service & Performance
We have been using Xcel Plumbing for several years and I couldn’t be happier with their service and performance. Their knowledge of appliances and suggestions for solutions to problems is always welcomed.
Paul C. Esposito, Cedars at Basking Ridge Condominium Association, Inc.
November 9, 2023
Long-Term Quality Service
Thank You XCEL for servicing our Heating and Cooling System for almost a decade!
Your technicians are always prompt, polite, knowledgeable, neat, personable and professional!
While the technicians have changed over the years, the quality of service has not!
Karen Segal
October 31, 2023
Integrity
Kim and Xcel Plumbing and Heating are the Best. About 5 years ago, they installed a new ductless air system at our home. This past year we had a problem with it (product still under warranty). They came back and tried to fix the issue. Unfortunately, we realized that the problem was not one that Excel could fix, it was a manufacturer defect.
Not only did Excel take care of all the communications with manufacturer, they actually made good, on the issue, that the manufacturer tried to default on. It was a process and I wasn’t always happy, but through it all Kim communicated with us, responded to all of our calls questions and concerns and then ended up fixing a problem that wasn’t theirs to fix.
I am grateful and would recommend this company to anyone looking for maintenance, repairs or new systems. They have knowledgeable workers and they all have integrity, which is hard to come by these days.
Lisa Garcia, A & A Construction, Inc.
November 7, 2023
Highly Recommend
Xcel Plumbing has been extremely responsive to our backflow testing needs and scheduling. The office staff is helpful and responds quickly to all our requests and the reporting to the state has never gone more smoothly. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.
Bob Garrell, Chapman Environmental Services
November 9, 2023
