Question 1

What is backflow testing?

Accepted Answer

It's a safety check that confirms water only flows one way — out to your fixtures, not backward into the drinking-water supply. A certified tester connects a calibrated gauge to your backflow prevention assembly (RP, DC, PVB, or SVB) and verifies each part performs correctly: check valves hold pressure, the relief valve opens at the right set point, and shutoff valves close tight. The result is a clear pass/fail report.

Question 2

How often do I need to test my backflow assembly?

Accepted Answer

In most jurisdictions, including here on Hawaiʻi Island, testable backflow assemblies must be tested every year. We track your due date and remind you ahead of time so you never miss it.

Question 3

How do I know if I even have a backflow assembly?

Accepted Answer

If your property has an irrigation or sprinkler system, a pool or spa auto-fill, a fire sprinkler line, a boiler, a catchment tie-in, or a commercial kitchen, there's almost certainly a backflow assembly on it — usually a brass or bronze fitting with two test cocks and shutoff valves, near where the water line enters or branches off. Not sure? Send us a photo or call and we'll tell you what you're looking at.

Question 4

How long does a test take?

Accepted Answer

A typical residential test takes under an hour. Commercial or multi-assembly sites take longer depending on how many devices are on the property — we'll give you a realistic window when you book.

Question 5

Do I need to be home for the test?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. As long as we can access the assembly and the water shutoff, we can usually complete the test and send you the results. We'll confirm access details when you book.

Question 6

What types of assemblies do you test?

Accepted Answer

All common testable assemblies: Reduced Pressure (RP), Double Check (DC), Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB), and Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breaker (SVB).

Question 7

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We cover Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island) — Kailua-Kona and Keauhou, Hilo, Waikoloa and the Kohala Coast, Waimea (Kamuela), and South Kona including Captain Cook and Kealakekua. Don't see your town? Give us a call — we cover a lot of ground.

Question 8

How much does backflow testing cost?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how many assemblies you have and whether any need repair, so we give you a clear number up front — no mystery fees. Most single-family homes have just one assembly; commercial and multi-family sites vary with the number of test points. Request a quote or call and we'll price it before we ever schedule.

Question 9

Will you file the report with the County?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We complete the test and submit a report formatted to County of Hawaiʻi Department of Water Supply requirements, so your compliance paperwork is handled for you.

Question 10

What happens if I skip it — can the County really shut off my water?

Accepted Answer

An overdue or unprotected assembly first brings compliance notices from the water system. If it's left uncorrected, the purveyor is authorized to discontinue service until you're back in compliance. It rarely gets that far — and with our reminders and same-week scheduling, it won't get that far for you.

Question 11

Who is certified to test backflow in the County of Hawaiʻi?

Accepted Answer

Only a tester holding a current backflow assembly tester certification, using a gauge calibrated within the past year, can submit a valid test to the Department of Water Supply. We hold that certification, keep our gauge calibrated, and are also a licensed journeyman plumber and certified cross-connection specialist.

Question 12

My assembly failed the test — what happens now?

Accepted Answer

Because we're a licensed journeyman plumber and certified cross-connection specialist, we can repair or replace the failed assembly and re-test it so you end up compliant — usually on the same visit. We'll explain what failed and quote the fix clearly before any work.

Question 13

Do you actually repair a failed device, or just test it?

Accepted Answer

Both — and that's what sets us apart from testing-only companies. Most testers on the island can only hand you a failure notice and send you looking for a plumber. We test, and if it fails, we fix or replace it and re-test on the spot. One visit, one bill, no weeks out of compliance.

Question 14

How soon can you come out?

Accepted Answer

Often the same week, especially around Kailua-Kona. Book online to see live availability and get instant confirmation, or call and we'll find you a slot that fits.

Question 15

Do you handle catchment or agricultural properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. South Kona coffee farms, upcountry ranches, and catchment-fed homes all have cross-connection points that need protecting, and we test and service those assemblies across the island. If you're not sure what you have, we'll help you figure it out.

Frequently asked questions

General

Cost

Compliance

Repairs

Scheduling

Ready to keep your water safe?