| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Varies by assembly - confirm in your quote |
| Time | Varies by assembly - confirm with your tester |
| Who's qualified | A state certified backflow prevention tester holding an up-to-date SC DES certification card |
James Island, SC: what's different here
James Island is in Charleston County, South Carolina, about 7 miles and roughly 10 minutes by car from Charleston via SC 30 or SC 171/Folly Road. The area has a severe flooding risk, with 29,578 properties likely to be severely affected over the next 30 years. James Island also has an extreme wind factor risk and is most at risk from hurricanes. It is expected to see a 171% increase in days over 105°F over the next 30 years.
How often is a reduced pressure zone assembly test required in James Island?
South Carolina requires reduced pressure zone assemblies to be tested after installation and before use, then at least once annually. Testing is also required immediately after any repairs to the assembly. A Charleston-area utility confirms annual tests by a certified tester help ensure the device is working.
Who can perform a reduced pressure zone assembly test in James Island, SC?
All backflow testing in South Carolina must be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester certified by SC DES. A certified tester holds an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Certification expires every 3 years, so ask the pro for a current card.
What does it take to become a certified backflow tester in South Carolina?
The SC DES tester certification course is a rigorous 4-day program. Recertification includes a 25-question written exam and a hands-on wet-lab test covering a reduced pressure principle assembly, double check valve assembly, and pressure vacuum breaker. The recertification fee is set at no more than $50.
Does my backflow assembly need to be on an approved list?
Yes. South Carolina requires backflow prevention assemblies used in the state to be on the SC DES list of approved backflow prevention assemblies. If your James Island property has an older or unlisted device, ask the tester whether it needs replacement to stay compliant.
What to do next
- Call (843) 286-4721 to request a free referral to a licensed, insured local backflow tester.
- Ask the pro for a current SC DES backflow prevention assembly tester certification card before the visit.
- Request the annual reduced pressure zone assembly test required under S.C. Code Regs. § 61-58.7.F.
- Confirm in your quote whether the assembly is on the SC DES approved list and whether any repairs would trigger a retest.
- 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.
