What Types of Backflow Prevention Devices Do We Test?

Certified Testing for Residential & Commercial Backflow Prevention Devices

Not all backflow prevention devices are the same. Different types of assemblies are designed for different applications, from residential irrigation systems to commercial buildings and healthcare facilities.

At Twin Cities Backflow Testing, we’re certified to test the most common backflow prevention devices found throughout Minnesota.

Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assemblies

Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assemblies provide one of the highest levels of backflow protection and are commonly installed in commercial buildings, medical facilities, manufacturing plants, restaurants, and irrigation systems where a higher degree of protection is required.

Because RPZ assemblies contain multiple check valves and a relief valve, they require annual testing by a certified backflow prevention tester.

Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB)

Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVBs) are one of the most common backflow prevention devices found on residential underground sprinkler systems.

These assemblies help prevent contaminated water from being siphoned back into the public water supply and are required to be tested annually in many Minnesota communities.

If you’ve received a notice from your city regarding your irrigation system, there’s a good chance you have a PVB.

Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA)

Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVAs) are commonly installed in commercial buildings, apartment complexes, irrigation systems, and some residential applications.

These devices use two independently operating check valves to help prevent backflow and, like other backflow prevention devices, often require annual testing to remain compliant with municipal requirements.

Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breakers (SVB)

Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breakers (SVBs) provide backflow protection in certain low-hazard applications and are commonly used where water spillage during operation needs to be minimized.

Like other testable backflow prevention devices, SVBs should be inspected and tested according to local requirements.

Not Sure What Type of Device You Have?

Don’t worry—most homeowners don’t.

If you’ve received a backflow testing notice from your city but aren’t sure what type of assembly is installed on your property, we’ll help identify it during your appointment.

Whether your property has a residential irrigation backflow preventer or multiple commercial assemblies, we’ll ensure the correct testing procedures are followed.

Why Annual Testing Matters

Backflow prevention devices contain mechanical components that wear over time. Annual testing helps verify that the device is functioning properly and continues to protect both your property and the public drinking water supply.

Testing is also required by many Minnesota cities and water providers for continued compliance.

Schedule Your Annual Backflow Test

Twin Cities Backflow Testing provides certified testing for:

  • Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assemblies
  • Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB)
  • Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA)
  • Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breakers (SVB)

We proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout the Twin Cities metro area with professional, reliable annual backflow testing.

Backflow Testing. That’s All We Do.

Request your annual backflow test today.

Have Questions? We’re here to help!

Complete the form, call us at 952-333-7787 or email info@twincitiesbackflow.com

Visit our Pricing Page for information on residential pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Backflow prevention testing checks the function of your backflow preventer device. This device stops water from reversing direction and pulling contaminants like fertilizers, chemicals, and bacteria into the clean water supply. Without it, everyday activities like watering your lawn or running your sprinkler system could put your drinking water at risk.

As long as your backflow device is accessible, the water is turned on and the test cap is in place, we should be able to test your device within 20-30 minutes. Learn more about how to prepare for your appointment.

No—most of the time you don’t need to be home. As long as your backflow device is accessible, the water is turned on, and the test cap is in place, we can complete the test while you’re away.

We just ask that payment is taken care of ahead of time or left at your home before your appointment.

Learn more about how to prepare for your appointment.

Pricing can vary slightly depending on your city’s requirements, but our testing fee always includes any required city reporting or administrative fees.

We keep pricing straightforward with no surprises—what you’re quoted is what you’ll pay.

If your device doesn’t pass the test, we’ll walk you through exactly what that means and what to do next. In most cases, it just means a repair is needed before it can pass inspection. Learn more about our re-testing policy.

Yes, and our testing fee always includes any required city reporting or administrative fees.

Venmo is the easiest way to pay! Simply send your payment to Twin Cities Backflow. Be sure to include your address in the payment notes so we can properly apply your payment. If you prefer, you can leave a check or cash in a clearly marked envelope at your front door, or pay us when we arrive for your test.

Twin Cities Backflow Testing in progress