| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Varies by assembly - confirm the price in your quote |
| Time | Varies by assembly - confirm timing in your quote |
| Who's qualified | A tester holding an up-to-date SC backflow prevention assembly tester certification card |
How often is double check valve testing required in Charleston?
South Carolina regulations require backflow prevention assemblies to be tested at least once annually by a certified tester. Charleston Water System also says annual testing is required and all reports must be filed with the applicable filing fees through its third-party reporting process.
What does the test check on a double check valve assembly?
South Carolina study guidance says both check valves must hold tight at 1.0 psid or greater pressure differential. The tester verifies each check valve separately during the field test. Ask the pro for the results on your test report.
Who is qualified to perform double check valve testing in Charleston?
South Carolina DES says all backflow testing must be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. A certified tester is a person holding an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Ask the pro for proof of certification and insurance.
Why does coastal flooding matter for backflow testing in Charleston?
In Charleston, backflow testing is especially important because frequent storms and coastal flooding increase the risk of backflow events. Annual testing keeps your double check valve assembly working when pressure changes occur. Ask the pro about retesting after a major storm or flood event.
How does a tester become certified in South Carolina?
Certification requires a 4-day course plus a proctored practical exam and a written exam. Testers must pass field tests on a double check valve assembly, pressure vacuum breaker, and reduced pressure principle assembly. Certification must be renewed every 3 years, with a recertification fee that shall not exceed $50.00.
What to do next
- Call (843) 286-4721 and ask for a free referral to a licensed, insured local backflow tester.
- Verify the tester holds an up-to-date SC backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department.
- Ask the pro to confirm both check valves hold tight at 1.0 psid or greater pressure differential.
- Request the written test report so you can file it with Charleston Water System's third-party reporting process and pay any applicable filing fees.
- 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.
