Reply
Dear visitor, welcome to SPRINKLER TALK FORUM - You Got Questions, We've Got Answers. If this is your first visit here, please read the Help. It explains how this page works. You must be registered before you can use all the page's features. Please use the registration form, to register here or read more information about the registration process. If you are already registered, please login here.
Attention: The last reply to this post was 4983 days ago. The thread may already be out of date. Please consider creating a new thread.
The last 3 posts
RE: How to Test Backflow device
It has a Watts Anti-Siphon Vacuum Breaker No. 288A. Is there any way to verify that the device is indeed preventing backflow into the house plumbing?
This is one of your classic good news - bad news situations.
The good news is that this type of valve is not a testable device, so you won't have to pay to get it tested. The bad news is that this valve is illegal connected to an irrigation system. This type of backflow device is only acceptable in a plumbing situation that does not have a valve after it. An irrigation valve counts as a valve, and an illegal install situation. If this atmospheric vacuum breaker (AVB) is installed on the pipe to your irrigation system, I can pretty much guarantee that it's not working, and has failed years ago.
Call your Municipality or your Water District to find out exactly what your backflow prevention requirements are. It will probably be a pressure vacuum breaker (PVB) or a double check valve assembly (DCVA). Most water districts in the USA require a PVB as a minimum requirement. Either of these devices will have to be tested upon installation, if it is moved to a new location, after any repairs, and at least annually.
Mick
You will probably have to pay a local irrigation company that provides that service. Not all of them do. Plumbing companies also, but again not all of them do provide that service. Irrigation companies may be a little cheaper than plumbers.
There is a license involved for this service.
How to Test Backflow device
I have a 30 year old Rain Bird sprinkler system which was installed by the contractor when the house was built. The house was a model home for 4 years or so. I haven't used the sprinkler system for 20 years or so. I decided to get it working this summer. I've replaced valves, some of the pipes and several sprinkler heads.
It has a Watts Anti-Siphon Vacuum Breaker No. 288A. Is there any way to verify that the device is indeed preventing backflow into the house plumbing?