Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions About Backflow Testing
Backflow testing is one of the most critical steps you can take to protect your property’s drinking water, as well as your community’s. Backflow is the undesirable reversal of water flow through a cross-connection, which can allow contaminated water to enter the public water supply or your own potable water system. When this happens, harmful substances like chemicals, bacteria, sewage, or pesticides can silently enter the water you drink, cook with, and bathe in. Backflow preventers ensure you and your neighbors have a clean drinking supply, as well as making sure the city’s main water supply stays clean and free of waste, chemicals, or other contaminants that might flow backward through pipes during a change in water pressure. Chicago Backflow, through yearly testing, verifies that your backflow prevention device is still functioning as it should. Valves wear down over time, seals can degrade, and components can fail without any visible symptoms. Annual testing catches these issues before they result in a contamination event, a costly repair, or a regulatory fine. Simply put, a working backflow preventer is your last line of defense between clean drinking water and the hazards present in your plumbing system. This is essential to comply with local Chicago regulations and safeguard public health.
All backflow preventers are required by Illinois law to be tested once per year. The same annual requirement applies in Indiana. This isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a legal obligation for both residential and commercial property owners who have backflow prevention devices installed. It’s also worth noting that some municipalities have specific submission deadlines, meaning your test results must be received by your water authority before a set date each year. Missing that window can result in late notices, fines, or even water service interruption. Contact us today to schedule!
Our certified technician will check your backflow preventer’s valves, seals, and overall function to ensure it prevents water from flowing backward. The process typically takes about 20–30 minutes per device. Here’s what you can expect from start to finish: our technician will arrive within your scheduled window and check in with your designated contact. They’ll locate your backflow device and use calibrated pressure gauges and specialized test kits to measure pressure differentials across the assembly. This tells us exactly how well each internal check valve and relief valve is performing. If any component shows signs of wear, failure, or non-compliance, we document it immediately and walk you through the recommended next steps, you don’t have to lift a finger.
Yes. CBI is an Illinois licensed plumbing firm (O-55) and all inspectors hold a Cross-Connection Device Inspector (CCCDI) certification. Chicago Backflow In Indiana, our technicians are certified through the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). This means every test we perform meets the legal requirements of both states.
When it comes to your backflow preventer, many general plumbers may lack the niche expertise to diagnose or fix the issue properly. That is never the case with Chicago Backflow. When you schedule your backflow test and certification with CBI, you are guaranteed a fully licensed inspector specializing exclusively in testing, certifying, repairing, and installing backflow preventers. Chicago Backflow Our inspectors don’t do general plumbing work on the side backflow is their entire specialty, which means a deeper level of expertise on every visit.
Our pricing is competitive, transparent, and structured to give you real value. We offer both a standard per-test rate and an all-inclusive annual service package. The all-inclusive backflow service includes the annual testing and certification of the backflow device, as well as parts and repairs as necessary, and any and all return trips needed to maintain the full functionality of the valve until the next annual certification is needed.
For first-time customers especially, the all-inclusive option offers significant peace of mind. If your device fails a standard test, repair costs can be substantial, but with the all-inclusive package, those repairs are already covered. The final cost depends on the number and type of devices at your property. Contact us for a specific quote!
Service Questions
Absolutely. Our all-inclusive service pricing includes any necessary repairs, up to 12 months after the test date. If you elect not to use the all-inclusive backflow service and your device fails, we will provide a detailed estimate, perform the repair, and retest it to ensure compliance.
Repairs can range from simple rubber seal replacements and valve cleanings to full device rebuilds or new installations. Sometimes backflow assemblies need a cleaning, new rubber parts, or to be completely rebuilt. CBI can accommodate your needs throughout the year when you choose our all-inclusive pricing, which comes with complimentary repairs to get your devices compliant. Either way, we never leave a failing device without a clear plan, and a retest is always included after any repair work is completed.
We test all types and sizes of backflow prevention assemblies. CBI certifies backflow prevention assemblies ranging in size, the most common device types we work with include:
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assemblies — the highest level of protection, required in high-hazard applications such as chemical feed systems, irrigation connected to a fertilizer injector, or fire suppression systems with chemical additives.
Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA) — commonly used in lower-hazard commercial and residential settings, such as standard irrigation systems or building water supplies.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB) — frequently installed on residential irrigation systems and outdoor hose connections.
Backflow preventers are typically installed in areas where there is a potential for cross-connection between the potable water supply and a non-potable water source, including irrigation, swimming and hot tub pool fillers, and fire protection systems.
If you’re unsure what type of device you have or whether it needs to be upgraded, our technicians can assess your setup and advise you on the spot.
Yes, we are available 24/7 for emergency repairs to minimize downtime and ensure your system stays compliant and safe. Backflow failures don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule — a device can fail after hours, during a weekend, or right before a health inspection. When that happens, you need a team that answers the phone and shows up fast.
Whether it’s a burst RPZ in the middle of the night, an unexpected failure discovered during a seperate test, or a water main break that has damaged your preventer, CBI is ready to respond. Our emergency technicians carry common replacement parts on their vehicles so many repairs can be completed in a single visit, getting your system back online and compliant as quickly as possible.
Our team is comprised of licensed Illinois Cross-Connection Control Device Inspectors (CCCDI) and Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) certified backflow testers covering the greater Chicago metropolitan area and Northwest Indiana. Every technician is also fully insured, protecting both your property and ours throughout the service visit. Beyond credentials, our team brings real-world depth, operating strictly in backflow service and inspection since 1993. Our staff is simply the best in the business, you can trust us to deliver reliable and professional service!
We provide a comprehensive one-year warranty on all parts and labor, giving you peace of mind about the quality of our work.
Compliance Questions
Yes, after each test, we submit the required paperwork (or online submission) directly to the water authority and provide you with a copy for your records.
If your device fails, we will walk you through the issue, recommend a solution, and complete the necessary repairs quickly. Retesting is included with any repair service.
Yes, CBI has worked in Illinois and Indiana for over three decades and are familiar with backflow regulations in both states. Backflow regulations can vary by jurisdiction, CBI is aware of all plumbing and backflow regulations in your area.
Scheduling Questions
We can typically schedule your test within 1–2 business days. For emergencies, we offer same-day service.
Yes, we will send you reminders 90 and 60 days before your test is due, and even call you if you still have not scheduled by the time you’re 30 days out from your next due date. We make sure you will never miss a deadline.
Reputation and Review Questions
Yes! Visit our Google Business page to read 5 star reviews from clients.
CBI serves a wide range of industries including restaurants, apartment complexes, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, high-rise buildings, and of course, residential homes. We are confident in our ability to meet your backflow needs.
The CBI Promise: superior customer service, highly skilled technicians, cleanliness, compliance with all codes, proper testing and certification, and a one-year warranty on all work.
Yes, Chicago Backflow Inc. is fully insured, so you are protected in the rare event of any damage during service.
