The 1st Step to Backflow Assembly Repair

Before a backflow assembly can be repaired to factory specifications the technician must refer to the manufactures supplied flowchart. The flowchart tells us what the factory specification “PSID” should be for each check valve.

For instance if you repair the check valve in a DCVA and you get a reading of 1.1 PSID after your repair but the flowchart indicates the PSID for the check valve should be 2.6 PSID then you have not properly repaired the assembly.

It’s also important to note the only time you should check “LEAKS” on your test report for a DCVA is if you’re gauge PSID reading is “0.0”. If your gauge reads 0.1 PSID the check valve is still holding “TIGHT” and you should check the “TIGHT” box and record your findings.

“LEAKS” should only be checked when you get a 0.0 PSID reading. All other readings should be marked “TIGHT” for DCVA’s / DCDA’s, PVBA’s & SVBA’s. “LEAKS” should only be used on RPBA’s if after your testing / diagnostics you discover one of the check valves are failing causing the relief valve to vent.