Backflow Testing & Prevention in Jacksonville, FL

RiverCity Plumbing provides backflow preventer testing and replacement in Jacksonville, FL, maintaining JEA compliance for residential irrigation systems and commercial cross-connections throughout Duval County. JEA requires annual testing of all backflow devices on properties using irrigation systems — failure to comply results in a violation notice and potential water service interruption. Call 904-760-7837.

backflow-testing-prevention-jacksonville-fl.jpg Certified RiverCity Plumbing technician performing an annual backflow test on a residential irrigation system in Jacksonville, FL.

Backflow Testing Jacksonville FL

Protecting Jacksonville’s Drinking Water — One Home at a Time

Backflow occurs when water flows backward in your plumbing system — pulling potentially contaminated water from your yard irrigation, pool, or other sources back into the clean drinking water supply. It’s a genuine health hazard, and it’s exactly why JEA (Jacksonville Electric Authority) requires annual backflow preventer testing for properties with irrigation systems, commercial connections, and other cross-connection risk points.

As certified backflow testers, we perform your annual test, provide the documentation JEA requires, and repair or replace any device that fails testing — on the same visit when possible. Don’t risk a JEA service interruption or compliance violation because your annual testing deadline slipped past you.

Backflow Services We Provide

Annual Backflow Testing

We perform the required annual differential pressure test on your backflow prevention assembly, document the results, and file the report with JEA on your behalf — keeping you compliant without any hassle on your part.

Backflow Device Repair

When a device fails testing due to worn check valves, damaged seals, or debris in the valve body, we repair it on the spot. Most repairs involve replacing internal components — faster and less expensive than full device replacement.

New Preventer Installation

New irrigation systems, commercial connections, and fire suppression systems require a backflow preventer at the point of connection. We size and install the correct device type — RPZ, DCVA, or PVB — for your application and file the required installation documentation.

Failed Test Device Replacement

When a backflow preventer has reached end-of-life and repair isn’t cost-effective, we replace the entire assembly with a new, tested device and immediately file the passing test report with JEA to clear your compliance record.

The Annual Testing Process

1

Schedule & Locate Device

We schedule a convenient appointment and locate your backflow preventer assembly — typically in the yard near the water meter or at the irrigation system connection. Most tests take less than 30 minutes.

2

Differential Pressure Test

Our certified tester connects differential pressure gauges to the test cocks on your assembly and performs the full test sequence required by the ASSE Standard for your device type. The test briefly interrupts flow to your irrigation system.

3

Pass or Repair on the Spot

If the device passes, we complete your test report immediately. If it fails, we attempt repair on the same visit. We carry common internal components — check valves, relief valves, seals — to resolve the most frequent failure modes without a return trip.

4

JEA Report Filing

We file the completed test report with JEA on your behalf and provide you with a copy for your records. You receive confirmation when JEA has processed the report and your compliance is confirmed.

Transparent Backflow Testing Pricing

Annual backflow testing is one of the most straightforward and affordable plumbing compliance services we offer. We provide a fixed price for the test — including JEA report filing. If the device requires repair, we quote that separately before proceeding. For properties with multiple backflow preventers, we offer bundled pricing. Call 904-760-7837 for a quote specific to your property type and number of devices.

Your Questions

Backflow Testing FAQ

Why does JEA require annual backflow testing in Jacksonville?

JEA requires annual testing to ensure that backflow prevention devices — which protect the public drinking water supply from contamination — are functioning correctly. Backflow preventers contain internal check valves and springs that can wear, corrode, or accumulate debris over time. Annual testing catches failures before they allow a cross-connection event (contaminated water flowing backward into the clean supply), which can affect not just your home but neighboring properties on the same water main.

Do I need a backflow preventer if I have an irrigation system?

Yes — in Florida, all residential and commercial irrigation systems connected to the public water supply are required to have a backflow preventer installed at the connection point. This is required by both the Florida Building Code and JEA’s cross-connection control program. If you have an irrigation system that was installed without a backflow preventer, you are out of compliance and subject to JEA service interruption. We can install the correct device and bring you into compliance.

What happens if my backflow preventer fails the annual test?

A failed test means the device is not functioning as designed and must be repaired or replaced. Most failures involve worn internal check valves or debris-fouled seats — repairs we can typically perform on the same visit using parts we carry on the truck. Once repaired, we immediately re-test and file the passing report with JEA. For devices that are too old or too corroded to repair cost-effectively, we replace the assembly and file the passing test report the same day.

How do I know when my backflow preventer is due for testing?

JEA sends a compliance notice to property owners when their annual test is due, typically referencing the date of the last passing test on file. If you’ve never tested your device, received a JEA notice, or aren’t sure when your last test was, call us at 904-760-7837 and we’ll look up your compliance status and schedule the test. We also offer annual reminder programs so you never miss a testing deadline.