| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $150 to $250 in Broken Arrow; Oklahoma tests run $50 to $250 |
| Time | Testing is annual; ASSE 5110 tester training is a 40-hour class and exam |
| Who's qualified | Testers must meet AWWA or ABPA requirements and be registered by the city |
Broken Arrow, OK: what's different here
Broken Arrow is in Tulsa County, about 15 miles and roughly 18 minutes by car from Tulsa via US-64 and OK 51. The area has shallow frost, typically 12 to 24 inches, and expansive Permian Red Bed clay that shifts seasonally. City rules require backwater devices for new buildings connected to the sanitary sewer and for buildings where the lowest floor is less than one foot above the upstream manhole rim.
Does Broken Arrow require pressure vacuum breaker testing?
Yes. Broken Arrow code requires backflow prevention devices on irrigation systems connected to the city's potable water supply, using a pressure-type vacuum breaker or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. Devices must be tested and certified at installation and annually thereafter.
Who can test a backflow device in Broken Arrow?
Testing, certification, and repair must be done by people who meet American Water Works Association or American Backflow Prevention Association requirements and are registered by the city as licensed testers. The ASSE 5110 tester course is a 40-hour class and exam that includes field testing a pressure vacuum breaker assembly. Ask any pro for proof of registration and insurance.
What paperwork is required after testing?
Broken Arrow's municipal code says a certificate of compliance must be submitted to the city by the registered contractor after backflow testing. Make sure your tester files it, since annual certification is a code requirement.
How does Broken Arrow's climate affect my backflow preventer?
Broken Arrow sits in an area with shallow frost, typically 12 to 24 inches, plus expansive Permian Red Bed clay that shifts seasonally. City code requires backflow preventers to be protected from freezing or removed by unions in areas subject to freezing. Device piping must be installed at a minimum 24-inch depth.
What to do next
- Ask for a quote that specifies pressure vacuum breaker testing and the certificate of compliance filing the city requires.
- Verify the tester is registered by the City of Broken Arrow and meets AWWA or ABPA requirements.
- Confirm the tester holds ASSE 5110 training, the 40-hour class and exam covering pressure vacuum breaker field testing.
- Before the first hard freeze around November 14, ask the pro whether your device needs freeze protection or removal by unions.
- Call (918) 202-2068 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured local backflow testers.
Tulsa Backflow is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
