What if my backflow device is due to be tested before I want to turn on my irrigation system for the season or have the spring startup service performed?

Each backflow device must be tested once every 12 months after the previous test date, regardless of when the irrigation system is planned to be turned on or the startup service will be performed. For example, if your device was tested in May, it must be tested by the last day of May the following year. It is your responsibility to coordinate the device test and spring startup service with your irrigation company to ensure Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and testing timelines are met each year. The date of the spring startup may vary from year to year due to the weather but unfortunately the backflow test cannot. Testing the device once every 12 months after the previous test date is a firm deadline.

If your irrigation company will be turning on the system earlier than normal, it is recommended that you coordinate with them to have the spring startup performed but delay the backflow test until the month it is actually due to be tested. That way you can ensure your testing month remains the same each year regardless of when your system is turned on. For example, if your device was tested in May the previous year, but your system is turned on in March; you will want to instruct your irrigation company to perform the spring startup in March and then come back in May to test the backflow.

Show All Answers

1. What is backflow?
2. What happens during a backflow event?
3. What is a cross connection?
4. What are common types of cross connections?
5. What is a backflow device?
6. Is a backflow device required on all residential irrigation systems?
7. Why do backflow devices need to be tested?
8. How often does a backflow device need to be tested?
9. Can anyone test a backflow device?
10. What happens after the backflow device has been tested?
11. What is the difference between a spring startup service and a backflow test?
12. What if my backflow device is due to be tested before I want to turn on my irrigation system for the season or have the spring startup service performed?
13. Can I have my backflow device tested at the same time that the spring startup service is performed?
14. Why did two people come out to perform my spring startup service and backflow test?
15. Am I still required to have the backflow device tested even if I do not use my irrigation system?
16. What are my options if I do not want to have my backflow device tested every year?
17. What are some considerations before having my irrigation system cut and capped?