Compliance with the City of Ottawa’s Backflow Prevention Program is mandatory for many commercial and multi-residential properties. Our certified backflow specialists manage the entire process, from initial surveys and engineered drawings to installation, annual testing, and compliance reporting.
Backflow Prevention
At DH Plumbing and Heating, we specialize in backflow prevention services to protect your residential, commercial, and industrial properties from potential water contamination. Backflow occurs when water reverses flow due to pressure changes, potentially introducing pollutants into your clean water supply. Our expert plumbers ensure your water system meets Ottawa’s safety regulations.
The City of Ottawa's Backflow Prevention Program aims to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the municipal drinking water system. This program mandates that properties classified as severe or moderate hazards install appropriate backflow prevention devices and conduct regular testing to ensure compliance with the highest industry drinking water protection standards.
Our Backflow Prevention Services Include:
- Backflow Installation – Professional installation of backflow prevention devices to safeguard your water supply
- Building Surveys – Comprehensive assessments of your plumbing system to identify potential backflow risks and determine necessary preventive measures
- Engineered Drawings for Backflows – Preparation of detailed backflow prevention plans that comply with local building codes and the City of Ottawa’s regulations
- Backflow Testing – Annual testing of backflow prevention devices to ensure functionality and adherence to city requirements
- Backflow Repairs – Prompt and reliable repairs for malfunctioning or leaking backflow prevention devices to maintain system integrity
Contact DH Plumbing & Heating and schedule your backflow prevention service to ensure your property complies with Ottawa's regulations!
Frequently asked questions
1. What is backflow, and why is it a problem?
Backflow occurs when water flows backward into the clean water supply, potentially contaminating drinking water with chemicals, bacteria, or other pollutants. This can happen due to a drop in water pressure from events like water main breaks or heavy demand on the system.
2. What is a backflow prevention device?
A backflow prevention device is a mechanical valve installed in plumbing systems to prevent contaminated water from reversing flow into the clean water supply. These devices are required in commercial, industrial, and multi-residential properties under Ottawa’s regulations.
3. What are the different types of backflow prevention devices?
✔ The most common types of backflow prevention devices include:
• Dual Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) – Designed for moderate hazard applications, this assembly features two independent check valves to prevent backflow. It is commonly used in commercial and residential plumbing systems where backflow risk is present but not considered severe.
• Reduced Pressure (RP) Assembly – Used in severe hazard applications, this assembly provides an extra level of protection by using two check valves with a relief valve in between. RP assemblies are ideal for high-risk facilities like hospitals, industrial buildings, and chemical plants where contaminants could pose a significant health risk
4. What is the City of Ottawa’s Backflow Prevention Program?
The City of Ottawa has implemented a Backflow Prevention Program to protect the municipal drinking water system. This program requires certain properties to have approved backflow prevention devices installed and tested annually to ensure compliance with safety standards.
5. Who needs to comply with Ottawa’s Backflow Prevention Program?
✔ The program applies to properties categorized as moderate or severe hazards, including:
- Commercial buildings (restaurants, offices, retail stores, etc.)
- Industrial facilities (manufacturing plants, warehouses, etc.)
- Multi-residential buildings (apartment complexes, condos)
- Healthcare and educational institutions (hospitals, schools, laboratories)
6. How often does my backflow prevention device need testing?
✔ According to Ottawa’s by-laws, backflow prevention devices must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester to ensure proper operation and compliance with city regulations.
7. What happens during a backflow test?
✔ A licensed technician will:
- Inspect and assess the device for proper function
- Measure water pressure levels
- Check for leaks or malfunctions
- Submit test results to the City of Ottawa if required
8. What are the signs that my backflow prevention device needs repair?
✔ If you notice any of the following, your backflow prevention device may need servicing:
- Low water pressure in your building
- Discolored or foul-smelling water
- Leaks or visible damage to the device
- Frequent plumbing issues related to water flow
9. Can DH Plumbing and Heating handle my backflow prevention compliance?
✔ Yes! Our certified backflow specialists provide:
- Backflow installation and replacements
- Annual backflow testing and reporting
- Repairs and maintenance to keep your system in top condition
- Building surveys and engineered drawings for new or existing systems
Need Backflow Prevention Services? Contact DH Plumbing and Heating Today!
We serve Ottawa, Kanata, Nepean, Orleans, Barrhaven, and surrounding areas with expert backflow prevention solution