Backflow Testing in Austin
Licensed Testing, Repair & Installation for Austin Homes & Businesses
When Austin Water sends a compliance notice, you need a plumbing team that can handle the full job: test the device, file the report, and fix whatever’s wrong without scheduling a second appointment. That’s exactly what Heritage Plumbing offers. We’re a fully licensed and insured plumbing company serving Austin and the surrounding area, and our second-generation plumbers bring over 15 years of experience across residential, commercial, and new construction work.
We handle backflow testing, repair, installation, and compliance reporting for both homeowners and commercial property owners. When your device passes, we submit the Test and Maintenance Report directly to Austin Water. When it doesn’t, we can explain your repair options on the spot.
Ready to schedule your backflow test or get a free estimate? Call Heritage Plumbing today at (512) 598-4396 and we’ll work to get you in as soon as the same day.Why Property Owners Choose Heritage Plumbing for Backflow Work
The biggest frustration with backflow compliance is the gap between a failed test and an available repair plumber. We close that gap. Because we’re a full-service plumbing team, the same licensed plumber who runs your test can address a failed device on-site, often without a return visit. Austin Water requires failed assemblies to be repaired and re-tested within 30 days of a failed test, and coordinating two separate vendors eats into that window fast.
A few more reasons Austin homeowners and commercial property managers rely on us:
- Same-day service availability: We work to accommodate same-day scheduling whenever possible
- Free estimates: No cost to get a straight answer before work begins
- Honest pricing: Fair, straightforward service with your best interests in mind
- Veteran discount: 10% off for veterans. Call for details
- Residential and commercial experience: Our work spans remodels, multi-family buildings, and new construction, covering the full range of property types where backflow assemblies are required
Why Choose Us?
We Put You First
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We Work To Accommodate Same-Day Service Whenever Possible
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2nd Generation Plumbers Backed By 15 Years of Experience
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Experience in Multi-Service, Remodels & New Construction
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Focused on Fair, Honest Service With Your Best Interests In Mind
What Backflow Testing Covers
Backflow is the undesirable reversal of water flow inside a plumbing system. It can push water from an irrigation line, pool fill connection, boiler, or other non-potable source back into the drinking water supply. Two conditions cause it: backpressure, where a downstream source exceeds supply line pressure, and back-siphonage, where a pressure drop on the main line (from a water-main break or an opened fire hydrant) pulls water backward through an unprotected connection.
Common Backflow Prevention Assembly Types
A backflow prevention assembly (BPA) stops that reversal. The most common types in Austin are:
- Reduced-pressure zone (RPZ) assembly: Required on higher-hazard connections; provides the strongest protection and must be tested annually
- Double check valve assembly (DCVA): Used on lower-hazard connections, including many irrigation systems and commercial applications
- Pressure vacuum breaker (PVB): Common on irrigation lines; protects against back-siphonage
- Atmospheric vacuum breaker: Installed at individual fixture connections for basic back-siphonage protection
What the Annual Test Checks
Annual testing verifies that the internal seals, springs, and check valves inside each device are functioning correctly. Devices with worn or failed components can often be repaired on-site during the same visit.
Austin Water requires annual testing for all installed backflow prevention assemblies. That requirement covers irrigation systems, fire suppression lines, commercial kitchens, restaurants, medical offices, multi-family buildings, and residential properties with a device on the city water connection.
Austin Water Compliance Requirements
Austin Water administers its backflow prevention program under Chapter 15-1 of the Austin City Code, in conjunction with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations. Compliance responsibility falls squarely on the property owner.
Here’s how the process works:
- Annual notice: Austin Water sends an initial compliance notice approximately 90 days before your testing deadline, followed by a reminder
- Licensed tester required: Testers must hold a current TCEQ Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) license and be registered with Austin Water to test in the distribution area
- WEIRS reporting deadline: Test and Maintenance Reports must be submitted to Austin Water through the WEIRS online database within five calendar days of the test; paper copies are no longer accepted
- Failed assembly deadline: A device that fails must be repaired and re-tested with a passing result within 30 days
- Non-compliance consequences: Failure to comply can result in a fee added to your water bill; persistent non-compliance can lead to service disconnection under Austin City Code
Working with a team that handles WEIRS filing directly means one fewer item on your checklist and reduces the chance of a report falling through the cracks after the test.
Rave Reviews
Hear From Happy Customers Near You
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“Highly recommend Heritage Plumbing for any plumbing service needs.”- Alba Perez
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“You can tell they’re passionate about their work and take pride in it.”- Mayra Aquirre
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“I just want to say how wonderful my experience has been with Heritage Plumbing.”- Dianna Saurez
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“They got the job done efficiently and professionally.”- Juan Bracho
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“Would definitely use them again!”- Priscilla Wright
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“Gio and his team are the most professional and courteous plumbers in town!”- Gareth Marvel
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“His team was courteous and very professional and I will recommend them whenever I can.”- Danny Wilson