| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $125 for 3/4-inch to 1.5-inch commercial assemblies |
| Time | Tests are scheduled online; ask the pro for timing |
| Who's qualified | Must hold a state-certified backflow prevention tester certification |
Who can perform commercial kitchen backflow testing in Charleston?
South Carolina requires all backflow testing to be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester. A certified tester is someone holding an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Certification is earned after a proctored practical exam and a written exam.
How often does a Charleston commercial kitchen need backflow testing?
Charleston Water System says annual testing is required. All reports must be filed with the applicable filing fees through its third-party reporting process. Charleston's humid subtropical climate adds moisture and seasonal rainfall that can make plumbing vulnerability more relevant for commercial water systems.
How does a tester get certified in South Carolina?
South Carolina backflow tester certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed to remain valid. The certification application includes a $150.00 processing fee per certification. Charleston has hosted a tester certification class at the North Charleston Convention Center.
What equipment standards apply to a backflow test?
South Carolina DES says a tester's differential gauge must be accurate to within 2% of full gauge scale or +/- 0.3 psi differential. South Carolina recognizes 4 types of certified backflow testers: General Tester, Limited Tester, Inspector Tester, and Manufacturer's Agent.
What to do next
- Confirm your assembly size (3/4-inch to 1.5-inch is the advertised $125 range) so your quote matches.
- Ask the pro for their up-to-date South Carolina backflow prevention assembly tester certification card.
- Verify the tester's certification is current - South Carolina certification must be renewed every 3 years.
- Schedule the annual test and confirm the report will be filed with the required fees through the water system's third-party reporting process.
- 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.
