Backflow Preventer Installation · Delmar, MD
The required safety device that keeps sprinkler water from backing up into your drinking water. Elzey installs and tests one on every system, standard, not an upsell.
This is the safety device that keeps water from your sprinkler system from backing up into your household drinking water, and depending on where you live, it's required by code.
Elzey installs and tests post-vacuum breakers as a standard part of every new system, not an upsell you have to ask for.
A backflow preventer on an irrigation system isn't optional in either state Elzey serves. Both the Maryland State Plumbing Code and the Delaware Uniform Plumbing Code require testable backflow assemblies, including those on irrigation systems, to be tested annually. Elzey installs backflow preventers as a standard part of every irrigation system, not an add-on you have to think to ask for, so your system is compliant from day one, whether you're in Wicomico County or Sussex County.
Some homeowners only learn a backflow preventer is required after a notice arrives from their water provider. Elzey builds a backflow preventer into every new irrigation install and can also add one to an existing system that doesn't have one, so you're covered before compliance becomes something you're scrambling to catch up on, no matter which side of the state line you're on.
If a backflow assembly fails its annual test, it has to be repaired or replaced before the irrigation system can legally be used again. Elzey handles both the testing and any needed repair, so a failed test means a quick fix, not weeks without being able to water your lawn.
Not every property uses the same kind of backflow preventer. Which type is required depends on your system's layout and how it connects to your water supply. Elzey evaluates your setup and installs the correct assembly for your property, so you're not guessing whether what's installed actually meets code.
Backflow requirements can vary by county and by state, and it's easy to assume the rules are the same everywhere. Elzey installs and tests backflow assemblies in line with what your specific jurisdiction requires, whether that's Maryland or Delaware, so you don't have to research local code yourself to know your system is covered.
Yes, in both Maryland and Delaware. Maryland's State Plumbing Code requires all testable backflow assemblies, including those on residential irrigation systems, to be tested at least annually. Delaware's Uniform Plumbing Code has the same requirement, with test results submitted to the local water supplier. This is state code in both states, not just a recommendation from irrigation companies. A backflow preventer protects the public water supply from fertilizer, chemicals, or other contaminants being pulled backward into the drinking water system.
A failed assembly has to be repaired or replaced, and re-tested, before the irrigation system can legally be used again. This is a straightforward process when handled promptly, but it does mean your system stays offline until the repair is complete and the retest passes.
Every year, in both states. Backflow assemblies are mechanical and can wear or fail over time, which is why Maryland and Delaware both require annual testing rather than a one-time check at installation. An assembly is also required to be retested any time it's repaired, replaced, or relocated.
A pressure vacuum breaker, or PVB, is the standard type used for most residential irrigation systems and has specific placement requirements, including how high above the ground it needs to sit. When those placement requirements can't be met, a reduced-pressure principle assembly, or RP, is used instead. Which one your property needs depends on your system's layout, not personal preference.
Without a backflow preventer, a sudden drop in water pressure, like during firefighting nearby or a water main break, could pull water from your lawn, along with any fertilizer or chemicals on it, backward into your home's drinking water line. A backflow preventer is a one-way valve that stops that from happening, protecting your household water and the wider public water supply.
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"We live in a community where many of us got together to hire one irrigation company to winterize our irrigation for most of our neighborhood. We contacted five or six to inquire about a group rate and Elzey Services provided the lowest price for a high-quality service. We were also pleased to discover that it's a family run local business. Always good to support these types of businesses."
Mike & Mary Ziegler
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"Reliable service and great communication. Otis showed up for appointments as promised, and texted and called with updates from the first estimate and throughout multiple service dates. Elzey had a competitive price for the job, their work was professionally executed."
Candice Ridlon
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"Otis and family did a great job setting up both my lawn irrigation and outdoor lighting. They are very nice, quick and reasonable! I will have them back in the Spring for more outdoor lighting projects!"
Paul Montemuro
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"I would give 10 stars if I could. Very honest, professional and reliable! Highly recommend!"
Mohammad M Choudhry MD
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"Elzey Services has provided servicing for the irrigation system for several years. They have consistently done an excellent job with the servicing & communications to keep me informed. I highly recommend Otis Elzey!"
Marlene Kruelle
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"Elzey Services came out to look at my irrigation system. They were very professional and friendly. He discovered the issues and fixed them. They showed me how to use the system. I intend on using their services again. Thank you."
Nyoka Mills
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