Do you need Backflow Device Testing?

Backflow device testing has become a yearly mandatory test for commercial properties in Ontario. Here we take a look at why this was put in place and what you can do to remain compliant with the law.

If you own or manage a commercial property in Ontario, it is now part of legislation that your building has and maintains a backflow device on the main water distribution. These devices protect and isolate the building from the City’s water distribution system. Helping to ensure contamination doesn’t enter municipal drinking water. For more information on what exactly a backflow device does, visit our HOW A BACKFLOW PREVENTER WORKS page.

This law was passed to safeguard our municipal water from harmful chemicals that some businesses use every day. Industrial and manufacturing facilities can sometimes use several hazardous chemicals in their production process. A backflow device stops these chemicals from making there way into our drinking water. They’re a crucial device and thus it is crucial to have them tested every year.

To remain compliant, the device needs backflow device testing every year. This testing can only be done by a licensed plumber that also has a OWWA certificate. It is important to choose a plumber with up-to-date credentials and someone you can trust. All too often we see devices that have been “tested” yearly but that fail our test due to negligent previous testing.

Here are a few facts about the backflow device testing process:

• Your water will need to be shut down for the duration of the test
• The test can take 1 to 1.5 hours per device
• A report for your municipality with the results will be generated
• The results will be submitted directly to the city
• A copy of the results will be emailed to you

Still have questions?! Call the trusted team at Trouble Shooters! We have experience working with various large scale commercial properties in Toronto to perform annual backflow device testing and installation.