What is a backflow prevention assembly and what is this I hear about testing?

All public water supply customers are required under state law and local rules to take steps to make sure the water in their plumbing and irrigation system cannot contaminate the public water supply or sicken people visiting their properties.

Part of this requirement means that you must have backflow prevention assemblies at certain places on your property. These devices are designed to keep water from reversing the flow and possibly carrying contaminants back into the potable supply. One place you must have a backflow device is on your irrigation system. The irrigation backflow preventer must be tested upon installation and then every five years under our local rules. An exception to the five-year rule is backflow preventers on irrigation systems at properties where there is a septic system or if the irrigation system is equipped to inject fertilizer or pesticides. Such systems are at higher risk, so their backflow preventers must be tested annually.  Backflow preventers are also required to be on automatic refill lines for swimming pools, garden ponds and fountains.

For more information about backflow prevention and testing requirements, go to Backflow Prevention | Horseshoe Bay, TX - Official Website (horseshoe-bay-tx.gov)

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1. How do I shutoff a leaking irrigation system?
2. How long should I run my sprinklers?
3. What days can I water my lawn?
4. What is a backflow prevention assembly and what is this I hear about testing?
5. What is TCEQ?
6. Who should I allow to install or maintain my irrigation system?