Irrigation Backflow Testing in Memphis, Germantown & Collierville
Annual Backflow Testing for Memphis-Area Sprinkler Systems
Every irrigation system tied to your home's water line has a backflow preventer. Its job is simple: keep sprinkler water from flowing backward into the water you drink. If pressure in the line drops or reverses, water that has been sitting in the system, along with soil, fertilizer, and lawn treatments, could be pulled back toward the drinking water supply. A working backflow assembly stops that from happening.
Tennessee requires annual backflow testing, and the test must be done by a certified tester approved by the State of Tennessee, Division of Water Supply. At Green Earth, we perform irrigation backflow testing in-house as part of our irrigation services, so you don't need to track down a separate backflow tester. We serve homes and businesses in Memphis and East Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Arlington, and across Shelby County.
Got a testing notice from your water provider? Backflow testing starts at $125. Call (901) 657-3614 or request a backflow test online.
What an Irrigation Backflow Test Checks
A backflow test confirms that the valves inside your assembly open, close, and hold pressure the way they should. Every test covers:
- Backflow Inspection: We look over the assembly for cracks, corrosion, leaks, and freeze damage around the valves, fittings, and test ports.
- Check Valves: We confirm each check valve closes tightly and holds pressure so water can only move in one direction.
- Relief Valve: On assemblies that have one, we check that the relief valve opens when it should and doesn't leak when it shouldn't.
- Shutoff Valves and Test Ports: We make sure the valves on each side of the assembly close fully so the test readings are accurate.
A steady drip from the assembly, a cracked housing after a freeze, or weak pressure across every zone are all signs to schedule a test before your due date.
MLGW Annual Testing Rules and What Happens If You Skip It
A cross-connection is any point where a drinking water line connects to something that could contaminate it, and an irrigation system is one of the most common examples. Tennessee's cross-connection control rules call for backflow prevention assemblies to be tested at least once every 12 months by a state-certified tester.
Memphis Light, Gas and Water runs a Cross Connection Control Program for its residential, commercial, and industrial customers. MLGW requires irrigation backflow devices to be tested every year, with the test tied to spring start-up. Skipping it can lead to an interruption of water service, plus a reconnect fee if service is shut off. Water providers accept results only from approved testers, and Green Earth is certified and approved by MLGW. Deadlines and paperwork can differ from one provider to the next, so always go by the date and instructions on your own notice.
How Our In-House Backflow Testing Works, From Visit to Report
- Scheduling: Call or send a request with your property address and any notice from your water provider, and we'll set a visit before your due date.
- On-Site Inspection: We locate the assembly and check it for visible damage, leaks, and freeze cracks.
- Calibrated Pressure Test: Using a calibrated test kit, we measure how each valve performs under set pressure conditions.
- Clear Results: We compare the readings to the accepted test standards and tell you plainly whether the assembly passed.
- Test Report: We record the results on the test report, so you have proof your annual backflow testing was done.
Backflow Testing for Homes and Businesses
For most homeowners, sprinkler backflow testing means checking one small brass assembly near the water meter or where the irrigation line branches off. Residential systems usually water a lawn and a few planting beds. Commercial properties often have larger zones, multiple controllers, and more than one assembly, and some commercial assemblies are on a shorter testing schedule than once a year. Your water provider's notice will tell you which schedule applies.
Because we already maintain irrigation systems for homes and businesses, we can test the backflow preventer during a regular service visit and look over the rest of the system at the same time.
Why Choose Green Earth for Backflow Testing
- Certified and MLGW Approved: Our testing is performed by a state-certified backflow tester approved by MLGW, so your results count.
- In-House Testing: We perform the test ourselves, so there's no separate company to schedule.
- One Team for the Whole System: The same crew that handles sprinkler repair, spring start-up, and irrigation winterization tests your backflow preventer.
- Local Service Area: Based in Cordova and serving Memphis, East Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Arlington, and the rest of Shelby County.
- Trusted Experience: Caring for Memphis-area landscapes and irrigation systems since 2012, with an A+ BBB rating.
Contact Green Earth Today!
A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.
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FAQs About Backflow Testing
How Often Does My Backflow Preventer Need to Be Tested?
At least once a year. Tennessee requires annual testing, and MLGW requires irrigation backflow devices to be tested every year around spring start-up. Some commercial assemblies need testing more often. Your water provider's notice will list your due date.
Do You Offer Backflow Testing in Memphis, Germantown, and Collierville?
Yes. We perform backflow testing in-house for homes and businesses in Memphis, East Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Arlington, and across Shelby County. Have your property address and any notice from your water provider handy when you call.
How Much Does Backflow Testing Cost?
Backflow testing starts at $125. The final price depends on how many assemblies need testing, whether it's a home or a commercial property, the type of assembly and how easy it is to reach, and whether a failed test means repairs and a retest. Call (901) 657-3614 and we'll give you a quote for your property.
What Happens If My Backflow Preventer Fails the Test?
We'll show you what failed and explain your options. The assembly has to be repaired or replaced and then tested again before it counts as passing. Repairs to the assembly itself are handled by a licensed plumber with a permit, and we can come back to retest it once the repair is made.
Can I Test My Own Backflow Preventer?
No. The annual test has to be done by a certified backflow tester using calibrated equipment, and water providers accept results only from approved testers. A test you do yourself won't count toward the requirement.
Keep your irrigation system protected and compliant. Call (901) 657-3614 or contact us online to schedule your backflow test.