We Repair and Install Backflow Assemblies

---

Here at Certified Backflow Testing we are your one-stop for all backflow related services. Along with our parent company, Seattle Tacoma Olympia Plumbing STOP Inc, we regularly repair failed backflow assemblies as well as install replacement assemblies.  Read on to learn more about your options when it comes to a repairing a failed backflow assembly.  

Inside of your backflow assembly there are several small moving parts which were all put together at the same time by the manufacturer. When your backflow assembly fails the annual test, it is usually because debris has gotten in between internal components or one of those elements has failed. This can be due to the age of the assembly meaning the normal “wear and tear” of the internal components. At this point there are two options for repair: partial or complete repair.

Having a failed backflow assembly means there is a choice of either a partial repair or a complete repair, and of course there’s different price points. Your initial repair quote from us will be for a partial repair, which means we will replace the components specifically inside the valve that failed during the test. It is important to note that this partial repair may not work. This is because parts often age at the same rate, and just replacing one component may result in other components failing immediately or shortly after. While not common, we have seen instances where we will perform a partial repair and the assembly will still fail. There is not a credit or refund given for partial repairs if a complete repair or replacement is subsequently needed, as once those parts are installed, they are not re-usable.

While we will offer a partial repair quote, we find it is best to replace all internal components at the same time. This is because we must shut the water off whether we perform a partial or complete repair. This is akin to changing the sparkplugs in your vehicle: a responsible mechanic would always recommend changing all of them at the same time rather than piecemeal for the same reason. The savings in labor is greater than the savings realized by just swapping out one part.  

 

 We do recommend having us attempt a repair prior to a full replacement, which is a significantly higher investment. While a backflow assembly could still fail after a repair attempt, it is not common. On rare occasions a device will not accept a repair kit, which is an indicator that the internal metal of the assembly has warped and needs to be replaced. Other instances where an entire assembly would have to be replaced would be if it was damaged due to freezing temperatures, or when an assembly is buried in dirt or flooded with water causing the external components to rust. Assemblies can last 15-20 years before needing a full replacement.

Absolutely! We regularly do the repair work on assemblies that someone else tested. This is because when it comes to repairing failed backflow assemblies either a specialty plumbing license or a full plumbing license is required. Many smaller testing companies around the Puget Sound only provide backflow testing. When you have your failed backflow report calling for backflow repair or backflow replacement, call us to discuss options and get a free quote.