Backflow Prevention in the Las Vegas Valley

Backflow happens when water reverses direction in a pipe, either because pressure in the public main drops (back-siphonage) or because pressure on the property side rises above the supply (back-pressure). A backflow prevention assembly, such as a pressure vacuum breaker, double check valve or reduced pressure principle assembly, uses check valves and relief openings to stop that reverse flow. Cross-connection control programs are run by the water provider, and the Las Vegas Valley Water District requires assemblies on commercial buildings, multifamily properties and irrigation systems.

Every irrigation system in the valley is a possible path for fertilizer, pesticide and standing water to reach the drinking supply. The same is true for boilers, fire sprinkler lines and commercial equipment. A backflow assembly is the barrier, and because its check valves and relief valve are mechanical, the local plumbing code and your water provider require it to be tested by a certified tester at installation, after any repair or relocation, and at least annually after that. The tester leaves a certification on site.

Desert conditions are hard on these assemblies. Irrigation backflow devices usually sit outside, exposed to intense sun and summer heat that degrade covers, rubber parts and exposed piping. Winter nights can still freeze an uninsulated assembly and crack its body or test cocks. Very hard water, about 280 parts per million or roughly 16 grains per gallon, leaves scale on check valve seats and springs, which is a frequent reason a device fails its annual test.

When an assembly fails, Active Plumbing repairs it with the correct kit where that makes sense, or replaces it with an approved assembly sized for the line, then retests it. Older services the water provider asks to retrofit are handled the same way. For worn hose bibbs and exterior faucets, see Fixture Installation & Repair. To book a test or repair, call Active Plumbing at (702) 438-3357.

An assembly that fails its annual test because a check valve will not hold or the relief valve discharges. Scale from hard water on valve seats and springs. Sun-damaged covers, cracked test cocks or bodies split by a winter freeze. Missing assemblies on older irrigation or commercial services the water provider wants retrofitted. Devices installed at the wrong height or orientation for their type.

Backflow preventer testing typically runs $50 to $100 in the Las Vegas Valley, and backflow device installation typically runs $300 to $600. These are typical valley ranges, not quotes. A routine test usually takes a short visit, while repairs depend on the parts needed and new installations depend on line size and location. Active Plumbing gives you a written price before work starts.

Testing uses a calibrated differential pressure test kit and the procedure for the assembly type, whether pressure vacuum breaker, double check valve or reduced pressure principle assembly. Repairs use the manufacturer's repair kit for check valves, springs, seats and seals. New or replacement assemblies are approved types sized for the line and installed at the height, orientation and clearance their listing and the local plumbing code require, then tested before we leave. Where the water provider's program sets reporting steps, we follow them and leave the certification on site. We test, repair and install backflow assemblies including Watts.

If you have a test notice, keep it handy along with the location of the assembly and call Active Plumbing at (702) 438-3357. If the device is leaking, close the irrigation shutoff ahead of it if you can reach it, and we will test, repair or replace it.