| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Varies by assembly and reporting - confirm in your quote |
| Time | Annual test required; tester training takes 4 days |
| Who's qualified | State-certified backflow prevention tester holding a current SC DES card |
What can a handy homeowner do themselves?
You can inspect your backflow assembly for visible damage, leaks, or missing parts and keep records of your test dates. You can also schedule the annual test with a qualified tester. Actual testing is not a homeowner task in South Carolina.
Why does commercial backflow testing require a certified tester in Charleston?
South Carolina DES defines a certified tester as a person holding an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Certification requires a 4-day course with a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. The card is valid for 3 years and must be renewed.
When to call a pro for backflow testing
Call a certified tester if the assembly was just installed, since state rules require testing after installation and before customer use. Call a pro if your annual test is due, if the assembly shows a leak or fails to hold, or if you need a report filed. Testers must also use gauges accurate to within 2% of full scale or plus or minus 0.3 psi differential during recertification.
How do I verify a tester's certification in Charleston?
Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance and for their current SC DES tester certification card. South Carolina recognizes four tester types: General Tester, Limited Tester, Inspector Tester, and Manufacturer's Agent. Confirm the type matches the work on your assembly.
What to do next
- Check your backflow assembly for visible leaks or damage and note the date of your last test.
- Ask the tester to show a current SC DES backflow prevention tester certification card before work begins.
- Request a quote that lists the annual test and the third-party reporting filing fee, since Charleston Water System requires all reports to be filed with fees.
- Confirm the tester's gauges meet the 2% of full scale or plus or minus 0.3 psi differential accuracy standard.
- Call (843) 286-4721 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured local backflow tester.
CHS Backflow is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
