Backflow Testing in Manassas, VA

What happens when you call

The call connects you with an independent plumber who works in Manassas. Tell them whether you are inside the city and on City water, what the device protects (a sprinkler system, a pool, a business line or a fire sprinkler system) and whether you have a letter or deadline from the City. Ask the plumber to confirm they hold the Virginia backflow tester certification. If the assembly is leaking badly, close the irrigation shutoff or the main valve first.

At the visit, the plumber checks the device with a calibrated test kit, writes up the result and explains any repair. If a new assembly is needed, they will tell you which permit applies.

What affects the cost

• The test result. A device that passes is a short job; a failed check or relief valve adds parts and a retest.
• Type and size. Reduced pressure assemblies on commercial lines take more time than a home vacuum breaker.
• Install or relocation. New work involves parts, labor and a City permit.
• Location. A device in a tight utility room or behind landscaping takes longer to reach.

Local conditions in Manassas

Manassas has been an independent city since 1975, separate from Prince William County, and it runs its own water, sewer and electric utilities. Its water comes mainly from Lake Manassas on Broad Run, treated at the City plant, with Prince William Water supplying extra water from Fairfax Water's Corbalis plant during peak demand or emergencies. The City's cross-connection program is listed with its Water and Sewer department; the department's customer service line, 703-257-8219, can tell you what it expects of homes and businesses, including how often devices are tested and how results are filed.

City water is relatively soft, at 47 ppm total hardness, so heavy scale is less of a problem here than in some neighboring systems; worn rubber and freeze damage are the more common reasons a device fails. The median home dates from 1985, and many Old Town and outlying subdivision homes have irrigation that has never been upgraded. Building permits inside the city come from City of Manassas Development Services at City Hall (703-257-8200). Manassas mailing addresses outside city limits are in Prince William County, which handles their permits, and their water usually comes from a different utility.

Before the plumber arrives

• Check your bill to confirm you are a City of Manassas water customer
• Find the irrigation shutoff and the main valve
• Turn off the sprinkler controller
• Gather any City letter or past test report
• Clear mulch, plants or stored items from around the device