Backflow Testing Calgary

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Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction in your plumbing system, allowing contaminated water to enter your drinking supply. Homes and commercial properties with irrigation systems, boilers, hose bibbs, or outdoor water connections are especially at risk. Changes in water pressure, like during a main break or heavy usage, can trigger backflow. Annual backflow testing in Calgary ensures your water remains safe, your system complies with municipal regulations, and your property avoids potential fines or health risks.

A backflow prevention device, also called a cross connection control device, stops contaminated water from mixing with potable water. Common types include check valves, double-check assemblies, and reduced pressure devices. These devices protect your water from chemicals, bacteria, fertilizers, and other contaminants. They are required wherever cross connections exist, such as boilers, hot tubs, irrigation systems, sprinkler systems, swimming pools, or commercial food and beverage equipment. Properly maintained devices ensure your household or business water supply remains safe and compliant with the City of Calgary Cross Connection Control Program.

By law, all backflow prevention devices must be tested at least once per year. Testing involves checking valves, springs, and relief mechanisms to ensure they maintain proper pressure and prevent reverse flow. Certified testers record the results and submit an inspection report electronically to the City of Calgary. Regular testing identifies worn or faulty components before they fail, protecting both your property and the municipal water supply.

Our certified backflow testing rates in Calgary are straightforward:

• $99 for the first device at a property
• $89 for each additional device at the same location

Any required repairs or replacement parts are billed separately, and our team discusses all work before proceeding. Transparent pricing helps property owners plan ahead and avoid surprises while ensuring full compliance with city regulations.

Only City of Calgary-certified testers are authorized to inspect and maintain cross connection control devices. Our licensed plumbing professionals follow all guidelines of the City of Calgary Cross Connection Control Program. This ensures that every test is valid, reported properly, and accepted by municipal authorities. Using a certified tester protects you from penalties and ensures your backflow prevention devices function correctly.

After each inspection, we electronically submit your test reports directly to the City of Calgary. You also receive a copy via email for your records, giving you proof of compliance. This process removes administrative hassle from property owners and ensures your backflow certification is always up-to-date.

Failure to test your backflow device annually can result in warnings, fines, or even temporary water shut-off by local water authorities. Beyond legal penalties, untested devices can fail without warning, allowing contaminants to enter your water system. Regular testing ensures safety for your property, family, or customers, and helps protect the wider municipal water supply.

If a device fails inspection, it must be repaired and retested before certification can be issued. Common issues include worn check valves, damaged springs, or relief valve failures. Our team diagnoses the problem, repairs or replaces components as needed, retests the device, and submits the passing report to the City of Calgary. Most repairs can be completed the same day, minimizing disruption and ensuring compliance.

Yes. Residential plumbing systems can allow backflow, especially from unprotected hose bibbs, irrigation systems, or boilers. While modern plumbing codes include protections, certain connections still pose a risk. Annual testing and properly installed backflow prevention devices protect your household water supply, maintain compliance with municipal requirements, and prevent potential contamination.