If you’ve never heard of backflow testing — or only vaguely recognize the term — you’re not alone. But understanding backflow and how it impacts your home’s water safety is essential. At Absolute Best Plumbing, we believe that clean, safe drinking water should never be left to chance.

What is Backflow?

Backflow refers to the undesirable reversal of non-potable water, or other substances, into your drinking water supply. This reverse flow can occur when there’s an abrupt change in pressure within your plumbing system, allowing dirty or contaminated water to enter the clean water lines.

There are two main causes of backflow:

• Back pressure – when the pressure in the system is greater than the pressure of the water supply.

• Back siphonage – when there is a drop in the water supply pressure that causes contaminated water to be drawn into the clean water supply.

Backflow can introduce:

• Chemicals and fertilizers from gardens

• Human waste from toilets

• Greywater from appliances

• Other harmful contaminants

Why Is Backflow Testing So Important?

Backflow testing is a procedure that checks whether your backflow prevention devices are functioning correctly. These devices are designed to keep contaminated water from entering your clean water supply.

If the backflow preventer fails, your household water could be compromised — leading to serious health risks. Proper testing ensures the device is in good working condition and protects your family and community from potential exposure to pollutants.

Is Backflow Testing Required?

Yes. In many municipalities and counties, annual backflow testing is required by law for homes and especially for businesses. Even if not legally mandated, it’s highly recommended as a best practice for homeowners, especially if:

• You use irrigation systems

• You have a swimming pool

• Your home has a private well

• You’ve installed a water softener or other home treatment systems

What Does Backflow Testing Involve?

Backflow testing is a quick and non-invasive service performed by a certified plumbing professional. During a test, the technician will:

1. Shut off water to the home briefly to evaluate the backflow prevention device.

2. Inspect the device for wear, pressure imbalances, or mechanical failures.

3. Test valve response to make sure the system is preventing contamination as designed.

4. File official documentation (if required) with the municipality.

The entire process typically takes under an hour, and the benefits last all year.

When Should You Schedule Backflow Testing?

Annual backflow testing is ideal, but there are circumstances when you should schedule it immediately:

• You notice discolored or cloudy water

• There’s an unusual odor or taste in your tap water

• You recently installed a new plumbing system or irrigation setup

• Your area has experienced construction or water main breaks

During times of high water usage (like during summer irrigation or widespread home occupancy like during COVID quarantines), systems are under extra pressure — making testing even more critical.

Absolute Best Plumbing – Your Backflow Experts in Central Florida

At Absolute Best Plumbing, we’re proud to be Central Florida’s trusted provider of backflow testing, installation, and repair services. We help homeowners and commercial clients stay in compliance and keep their water safe.

Our team offers:

• Certified backflow inspections

• Installation of backflow prevention devices

• Backflow preventer repair and replacement

• Compliance documentation for local municipalities

We use state-of-the-art tools and proven testing protocols to ensure every system we test is protecting the water you and your family rely on.

Don’t Leave Your Drinking Water to Chance

Backflow may not be something you think about often — but it can have serious consequences if ignored. A simple, affordable test once a year is all it takes to ensure your water supply remains clean, safe, and healthy.

If you’ve never had your system tested — or if it’s been over a year — contact Absolute Best Plumbing today.

We’ll perform a full backflow inspection and give you peace of mind that your water is protected.

Call us now to schedule your backflow test and protect your family’s health and safety.