Backflow testing
Backflow Testing in Kelowna & the Central Okanagan
Testing and certification of backflow prevention devices protecting drinking water from irrigation systems.
Any irrigation system connected to drinking water needs a backflow prevention device, because irrigation lines sit in soil, in contact with fertiliser and whatever else is on the ground. If pressure in the main drops, water can be drawn backwards from those lines into the potable supply. The device prevents that, and testing confirms it still works — which matters because the failure mode is silent.
Signs your system needs backflow testing
- Your purveyor has sent a testing or certification notice
- The device has not been tested in the past year
- Water is discharging from the device's relief opening
- The assembly may have been damaged by freezing
- You have installed a new irrigation system
- You have bought a property with an existing system
Common problems we see
- Devices that have never been tested since installation
- Assemblies damaged by winter freezing
- Worn check valves and relief valve seats
- Devices installed at incorrect height or orientation
- Missing or overdue certification where the purveyor requires it
- Irrigation systems with no backflow protection at all
What a visit includes
Scope varies between contractors — use this as the baseline to judge a quote against.
- Certified testing of the assembly using calibrated gauges
- Verification of correct installation and orientation
- Check valve and relief valve performance testing
- Documentation of results for your records
- Submission of certification where the purveyor requires it
- Report on any repair or replacement needed
Why this work is worth doing
- Protects your household drinking water from contamination
- Keeps you compliant with your water purveyor's requirements
- Identifies a failed device before it becomes a health risk
- Provides documented certification where it is required
- Catches wear early enough for repair instead of replacement
Seasonal timing
Testing clusters in spring alongside start-up, since that is when purveyor notices land and systems are being brought back online.
Backflow Testing questions, answered
Is backflow testing mandatory?
That depends on your water purveyor and your device type, and in the Kelowna area the purveyor varies by neighbourhood — the City utility in much of Kelowna, and improvement or irrigation districts elsewhere. Backflow protection itself is required for irrigation connected to potable supply; whether annual testing and reporting is mandatory for your property is set by your purveyor's bylaw. Confirm directly with them.
Who can perform the testing?
It must be done by a certified backflow assembly tester using calibrated test equipment, and certification has to be current. Not every irrigation contractor holds the ticket, so if you specifically need certified testing and documentation, say so in your request — that way it reaches contractors who can actually provide it.
How long does a test take?
The test itself is usually well under an hour for a residential assembly. Water to the system is shut off briefly while gauges are connected to the test ports and each check and relief valve is verified. If the device passes, you get documentation; if it fails, it typically needs a rebuild kit or replacement, which is quoted separately.
What if my device fails?
A failed device generally needs either a rebuild — replacing worn internal seats and springs — or full replacement, depending on its age and condition. Since a failed backflow preventer means your drinking water is not protected, it should be dealt with promptly, and where certification is required your purveyor will normally expect the repair and a passing retest within a set period.
Free, no obligation
Request a backflow testing quote
Tell us what your property needs. We pass the details to an independent irrigation contractor serving your area, and they contact you directly.
Prefer email?
Send the details to quotes@kelownairrigation.ca and we route it to the right contractor.
Email quotes@kelownairrigation.caRelated irrigation services
- Spring Start-UpRecommissioning your system after winter — pressurising safely, testing every zone and setting the season's schedule.
- Irrigation InstallationDesign and installation of new in-ground irrigation systems, zone expansions and full replacements.
- Sprinkler RepairDiagnosis and repair of broken heads, leaking valves, wiring faults and zones that will not run.
Free quote requests
Get an irrigation quote for your property
Tell us what the job involves and we will pass it to an independent irrigation contractor working in your area. Free to request, and you are under no obligation to go ahead.