Where protection lives
Pools, spas and fountains
Fill lines that drop below the water line, chemical feeders and autofill valves connect treated recreational water to the supply.
The protection you will typically see
Air gaps on fills where achievable; otherwise assemblies suited to the hazard, per the authority.
Who decides
The water authority assigns the required protection by degree of hazard and enforces the test schedule. Requirements vary by jurisdiction; the authority's cross-connection control program is the answer to every "do I have to" question on this page.
What the owner should know
The autofill convenience is exactly the connection that needs protecting. If your pool has one, an assembly is probably in the equipment pad, and it has a test schedule.
Seasonal
This application follows the season. In freeze climates the working window compresses hard after spring startup, which is exactly when testers' calendars fill. Book early in the wave, not at the end of it.
Common questions
Why do pools, spas and fountains need backflow protection?
Fill lines that drop below the water line, chemical feeders and autofill valves connect treated recreational water to the supply.
What kind of backflow preventer is used?
Air gaps on fills where achievable; otherwise assemblies suited to the hazard, per the authority. The assembly type is assigned by your water authority based on the degree of hazard, not chosen by the property owner.
How often does it get tested?
Testing is typically annual where required, on a schedule set and enforced by the water authority. A certified tester performs the test, tags the assembly, and files the report.
Other places protection lives
| Garden hoses and hose bibbs |
| Homes with wells or auxiliary water |
| Food and beverage processing |
| Commercial buildings generally |
| Lawn irrigation systems |
| Fire sprinkler systems |
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