Backflow Prevention in Schertz, TX
Backflow occurs when water flows in the wrong direction through your plumbing system — pulling contaminants, chemicals, or non-potable water back into your clean water supply. It can happen due to a sudden drop in water pressure (back-siphonage) or when a higher-pressure system pushes water back through a connection (back-pressure). Either way, the result can be contaminated drinking water that isn't safe to use.
Backflow preventers are mechanical devices installed on your water supply line that allow water to flow in only one direction. In Texas, backflow prevention is required at certain connection points — particularly for irrigation systems, fire suppression systems, and commercial properties. Many Schertz homeowners with irrigation are required to have a testable device installed and tested annually.
We install, test, and repair all common types of backflow prevention devices. If you've received a notice from the city or utility requiring backflow testing, we can schedule the test, complete the required documentation, and make any repairs needed to bring the device into compliance.
What We Handle
- Backflow preventer installation (residential and commercial)
- Annual backflow testing and certification
- Backflow preventer repair and replacement
- Irrigation system backflow prevention
- Pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) installation
- Reduced pressure zone (RPZ) device installation
- Double check valve assembly installation
- City compliance documentation and reporting
When You Need Backflow Prevention Service
New Irrigation System
Any new in-ground irrigation system in Texas requires a backflow preventer on the connection to the potable water supply.
City Compliance Notice
If you've received a notice requiring backflow testing, don't ignore it — noncompliance can result in a water service interruption.
Leaking Backflow Device
A backflow preventer that drips or leaks constantly has a failed internal valve and needs repair or replacement before the next test cycle.
Failed Annual Test
A device that fails its annual test must be repaired and retested before the utility will accept the certification.
Commercial Property
Commercial connections and certain cross-connection hazards require more robust RPZ devices that provide higher protection levels.
Water Tastes or Smells Off
Unusual taste or odor in your drinking water may indicate a contamination event — this warrants immediate inspection of the entire supply system.
Frequently Asked Questions
A backflow preventer is a one-way valve that stops contaminated water from flowing back into the clean drinking water supply. It's required at cross-connection points — anywhere non-potable water (irrigation, fire suppression, chemical lines) could potentially contact the potable water system. Properly functioning devices protect both your household and the public water supply.
In most Texas jurisdictions, testable backflow prevention devices must be tested annually by a licensed tester. The test results are submitted to the water utility or municipality. We handle both the testing and any required documentation — and if the device fails, we can make the repair and retest in the same service call when parts allow.
Yes. Texas law requires backflow prevention on all irrigation systems connected to a potable water supply. The type of device required depends on the hazard level — a pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) is the most common for residential irrigation, while higher-hazard or commercial systems may require a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assembly. We'll recommend the correct device for your application.