Backflow Testing & Certification Services - Hernandez Plumbing

Backflow Testing & Certification

Professional Services Throughout South Florida

Florida law requires annual testing of backflow prevention devices to protect public water supplies from contamination. Non-compliance can result in fines and water shutoff.

Hernandez Plumbing's certified technicians test all types of backflow preventers and handle all paperwork submission to your water utility. We also install, repair, and replace devices when needed.

Fast Turnaround
Certified Testers
Same-Day Filing
Call 305-428-3782

Backflow testing services throughout Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and surrounding South Florida areas.

Choose Your Property Type

We offer specialized backflow testing & certification services for both residential and commercial properties

Our Backflow Testing & Certification

Comprehensive solutions for all your needs

Annual Backflow Testing

State-required annual testing and certification of backflow prevention devices.

Backflow Device Installation

New installation of RPZ, double check, and PVB backflow preventers.

Backflow Repair

Repair of failed backflow devices to restore compliance and protection.

Backflow Replacement

Complete replacement of old or unrepairable backflow prevention assemblies.

Commercial Backflow Services

Testing and certification for commercial properties with multiple devices.

Irrigation Backflow Testing

Testing of backflow devices protecting irrigation and sprinkler systems.

Backflow Device Types

Understanding the different types of backflow preventers

RPZ (Reduced Pressure Zone)

The highest level of backflow protection, required for high-hazard connections like irrigation with fertilizer injection.

$75-$150 for testing
Lifespan: 15-20 years with maintenance

Advantages

  • Highest protection level
  • Required for high-hazard applications
  • Self-draining design
  • Most reliable protection

Considerations

  • Larger and more expensive
  • Must be installed above ground
  • Requires more maintenance
  • Annual testing required

Double Check Valve (DCVA)

Medium-level protection commonly used for fire sprinkler systems and low-hazard commercial connections.

$60-$100 for testing
Lifespan: 15-25 years

Advantages

  • Can be installed underground
  • Lower cost than RPZ
  • Compact design
  • Fewer maintenance issues

Considerations

  • Not for high-hazard uses
  • Less protection than RPZ
  • Still requires annual testing
  • No visible indication of failure

PVB (Pressure Vacuum Breaker)

Entry-level protection commonly used for residential irrigation systems and hose bibs.

$50-$75 for testing
Lifespan: 10-15 years

Advantages

  • Lowest cost option
  • Simple design
  • Easy to install
  • Good for irrigation

Considerations

  • Must be above highest outlet
  • Not for continuous pressure
  • Can't be used indoors
  • Least protection level

Warning Signs to Watch For

You need backflow testing when you see any of these situations:

Annual test notice
New irrigation system
Commercial property requirement
Building permit requirement

Common Backflow Testing & Certification Problems We Solve

Experiencing one of these issues? Our expert technicians can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

Contaminated Water

Backflow can allow contaminated water to enter your clean water supply, posing serious health risks.

Cross-Connection Issues

Improper connections between potable and non-potable water systems create contamination risks.

Backflow Prevention Failure

Failed backflow preventers no longer protect your water supply and must be repaired or replaced.

Water Quality Problems

Unusual taste, color, or odor in your water may indicate backflow contamination requiring immediate testing.

Why Trust Hernandez Plumbing

Your backflow testing & certification are in expert hands

Florida Certified Backflow Testers
Licensed Plumbing Contractor
50+ Years Serving South Florida
Same-Day Digital Filing
Repair & Replacement Capabilities

What You Get With Hernandez Plumbing

  • Certified testing and official paperwork
  • Same-day filing with water utility
  • Repair service if your device fails
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Multi-device discounts for commercial properties

Backflow testing costs $50-$150 depending on device type and location. Failed devices require repair ($150-$400) or replacement ($300-$1,500+). We provide upfront pricing.

Ready to get started?

305-428-3782

Free estimates • No hidden fees

How Our Backflow Testing & Certification Works

Our proven process delivers accurate results every time

1

Scheduling

Coordinate testing time

2

Testing

Certified technician tests device

3

Documentation

Complete required paperwork

4

Submission

File certification with water authority

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about backflow testing & certification

Testing costs $50-$150 depending on device type. PVB devices are least expensive, RPZ devices cost more. Commercial properties with multiple devices receive volume discounts. Repairs, if needed, are additional.
Florida requires annual testing of all backflow prevention devices. Your water utility will send a notice, but it's your responsibility to schedule testing. Late testing can result in fines or water shutoff.
If your device fails, it needs repair or replacement before we can certify it. We can often repair devices on the spot (additional cost). If repair isn't possible, we provide replacement options and pricing.
Yes! Florida requires backflow protection for all irrigation systems to prevent fertilizers, pesticides, and contaminants from entering the water supply. Most residential systems need at least a PVB device.
Testing takes 15-30 minutes per device. Most residential properties have one device and can be completed in a single visit. Commercial properties with multiple devices take longer.
Yes! We handle all certification paperwork and file directly with your water utility the same day as testing. You'll receive copies for your records.
Backflow occurs when water flows backward in your plumbing system—potentially pulling contaminants from irrigation, pools, or other sources into your drinking water. Backflow preventers stop this reverse flow.
Yes! We install all types of backflow prevention devices. New installations require permits, which we handle. We'll recommend the right device type based on your application and local requirements.

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